The Best Bookstores and Print Shops in Tokyo

Both Flotsam's vibe and curation of inventory can be summarized as "indie," as this humble bookstore and print shop caters to photography, biographies, subcultural texts and more. Flotsam is also one of the very few in Tokyo that has a wide selection of zines, for the farthest reaching niche cultures out there.

As institution all on its own: Daikanyama is home to this megapolis of a Tsutaya bookstore, known locally as "T-Site." The massive footprint allows for a literal exploration of books, magazines, prints, mangas and more, while even having enough space for exhibits, non-literature products like electronics and even the occasional pop-up shop within. Plan an entire afternoon here to capture it all.

Cow Books is centrally located along the touristy Meguro river, so it's an excellent break from the cafes and boutiques to which it calls its neighbors. Inside, you'll find a wide selection of international used books, in a warm and cozy environment with friendly staff. They even sell their own indie merch brand apparel and accessories, which has caught on with the fashion-centric locals of Nakameguro.

What SALT AND PEPPER may lack in inventory, it makes up for in curation and direction. Acting more like a gallery than a traditional bookstore, S&P works closely with the fashion and skate crowds and sells zines, prints and magazines, while also offering a small selection of apparel, footwear, accessories and local products.

For the literary hungry, there must be time to stop by the mega chain that is Kinokuniya. A household name for Japanese bookstores internationally, the Shinjuku Main Store is perhaps the best place to start if you're looking for something specific – a multitude of floors and a sea of bookshelves mean you'll more than likely find it. This location is also excellent for manga, in both Japanese and English editions.

Komiyama caters more towards photography books and graphic prints, both second-hand and new. Its brand has attracted artists from across the global, all of whom recognize Komiyama as a staple in the art realm for its excellent selection within the genre.

magnif focuses largely on fashion magazines, with an awesome ability to collect old and rare back editions of publications from around the world. The staff even helped us find exact magazines that had articles with specific fashion brand designers, which was an astonishing feat of awareness and cataloging that left us highly impressed.

As unique as they get – Kastori is a specialty bookstore found within Tokyo's Yoshiwara 'yūkaku,' or red-light district. The stock and inventory inside speaks for itself too because of this, specializing in rare, privately published and independent books and prints on various subjects, including biographies, materials on brothels, research articles and more.

For anime, manga and character fans, Mandarake is sacred ground. Besides the countless aisles of Japanese graphic novels and comics, fans and locals refer to Mandarake for anything rare and obscure, including toys, collectibles, accessories and even video games. This Shibuya location is also the one to go to; you won't believe how large and sprawling it can get underneath the bustling, main street.

There's a specific charm to Infinity Books, a local bookstore with a particular skill at sourcing and selling international audiences. By buying, selling and trading, the shop also prides itself on the largest online inventory of used English books in conjunction with its off-line stock. Infinity is also an event space, welcoming monthly events like live music, workshops, book readings and more.