Discover Jimbocho: Tokyo's Tsundoku Heaven
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo lies a book lover's dream come true - Jimbocho. This charming district, often overlooked by tourists, is a treasure trove of literature that will captivate any bibliophile. I was lucky enough recently to get to spend a day in this neighborhood, the largest used book district in Japan with over 170 bookstores and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique Tokyo experience. It's also the perfect place to indulge in "tsundoku" (積ん読) - the Japanese art of buying books and letting them pile up unread, a temptation that's hard to resist. As you wander through Jimbocho's narrow streets, you'll be surrounded by towering stacks of books in every direction. From centuries-old rare editions to modern manga, there's something here for every taste. Most of the books are of course in Japanese, but many shops specialize in specific genres or languages.
Here are some recommendations on bookstores to visit in Jimbocho.
Ohya Shobo: This wonderful tiny bookstore, founded in 1882, specializes in Japanese literature and history. It's a paradise for those interested in classical Japanese texts, scholarly works, and rare manuscripts. The store's wooden shelves and traditional atmosphere transport you back in time, making browsing here a uniquely Japanese experience. This store was one of my highlights of my trip to Japan, highly recommended.
Isseido Booksellers: For a glimpse of true bibliophile heaven, visit this store specializing in rare and antique books. Established in 1903, Isseido is a treasure trove for collectors and history enthusiasts. Their collection of antique travel books is particularly noteworthy, featuring leather-bound first editions of classic travelogues and beautifully illustrated atlases. Even if you're not buying, the atmosphere is unforgettable, with the scent of old paper and leather permeating the air.
Kitazawa Bookstore: Japan's oldest foreign-language bookstore, founded in 1902. It's a great spot for English-language books and rare Western titles. Kitazawa is particularly known for its impressive collection of academic books, making it a favorite among researchers and students looking for hard-to-find scholarly works in various languages.
Sanseido Main Store: This six-story bookstore is a Jimbocho landmark. While it mostly stocks new books, its top floor houses a delightful cafe where you can relax with your latest find. Don't miss their extensive collection of art books and magazines on the fourth floor, which offers a visual feast for art enthusiasts and designers alike.
Book Town Jinbocho: This multi-story complex houses several bookstores under one roof, making it easy to browse a wide selection in air-conditioned comfort. Each floor is dedicated to different genres or themes, from literature and philosophy to science and technology, allowing you to explore a diverse range of topics all in one place.
While books are the main attraction of course, Jimbocho has more to offer:
Vintage Shops: Interspersed among the bookstores are shops selling vintage items. Don't miss Sheeplus, a charming store specializing in vintage cameras and photography equipment. For music lovers, Coconuts Disk offers a vast collection of used vinyl records and CDs.
Cozy Cafes: The area is dotted with charming coffee shops, perfect for taking a break and diving into your new books. Try Sabouru, a local favorite since 1955, known for its retro ambiance and excellent coffee. I had a great lunch at Curry Bondy, a quirky cafe that's been serving its signature curry rice since 1973.
Cultural Spots: Visit the Kanda Myojin Shrine, just a short walk from the book district. I unfortunately missed it, but this ancient Shinto shrine, dating back to 730 AD, will offer a serene contrast to the bustling streets of Jimbocho.
Universities Nearby: The proximity to several universities gives the area a lively, intellectual atmosphere. Meiji University's Liberty Tower offers a free observation deck on the 23rd floor, providing stunning views of Tokyo.
Specialty Shops: Explore stores like Komiyama Tokyo, which specializes in art books and vintage photographs. For map enthusiasts, Tsunehiro Uno Shoten offers a fascinating collection of antique maps and prints.
Seasonal Events: If you're visiting in late October, don't miss the Kanda Used Book Festival, when the streets come alive with even more book stalls and special events.
Here are a few practical tips for your visit.
Most stores open around 10 or 11 AM and close in the early evening. Bring cash, as some smaller shops don't accept cards.
If you're looking for English books, check for signs saying "洋書" (yousho), meaning Western books.
Whether you're a serious collector or just enjoy the smell of old books, Jimbocho offers a uniquely Japanese twist on the joy of reading. It's a travel book lovers paradise that showcases a different side of Tokyo - one of quiet contemplation and the endless pursuit of knowledge.
