A Local’s Guide to Thrift Shopping, Styling & Sustainable Fashion in Hokkaido
❄️ Why Sapporo for Vintage?
If you think of Sapporo as just snow, skiing, or beer — think again. This northern city is quietly one of Japan’s most underrated hubs for sustainable fashion lovers. Whether you live here, just moved in, or are passing through, Sapporo’s vintage scene is full of character, charm, and incredible secondhand finds.
From hand-picked curated boutiques to big-brand secondhand chains, here’s how to shop like a local, dress with soul, and look good doing it — all while staying warm and stylish in the North.
🛍️ Where to Shop Vintage in Sapporo
1. 2nd STREET – Tsukisamu Store
A local favorite and your first essential stop. Spacious, organized, and filled with secondhand denim, coats, winterwear, and even some designer surprises. They carry brands like FRAMe WORK, JOURNAL STANDARD, and ABAHOUSE — often at half the original price.
✅ Great for: building a full outfit fast
🕒 Open: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
📍 Area: Toyohira-ku, easy drive from Makomanai with parking
2. Mauve Vintage
A boutique-style gem tucked near the Tanukikoji shopping street. You’ll find beautifully curated 80s/90s pieces — think soft knits, cargos, and graphic tees. Higher prices, but thoughtfully selected and often one-of-a-kind.
✅ Great for: a statement piece
🕒 Open: 1:00–8:00 PM weekdays / 12:00–8:00 PM weekends
📍 Area: Chūō-ku, near the arcade
3. I LOVE STORE
Quirky and full of charm, this lesser-known shop focuses on fun, feminine finds — skirts, accessories, playful patterns. Dig a little and you’ll find true treasures for under ¥2,000.
✅ Great for: unique accessories or that “one weird-cute piece”
🕒 Plan for: 20–30 minutes of rummaging
📍 Area: Also near Tanukikoji Arcade
👗 Outfit Ideas
1. Casual Retro Denim
- Top: Oversized vintage tee
- Bottom: High-waist straight-leg jeans
- Accent: Round sunglasses + leather belt
🧢 Vibe: Easy, everyday, retro cool
2. Smart Mix & Match
- Top: Soft linen shirt
- Bottom: Tailored vintage trousers
- Layer: Cropped knit cardigan
- Shoes: Loafers or boots
🧶 Vibe: Refined but chill — for a café day or cowork date
3. Street Edge Remix
- Top: Logo tee or graphic pullover
- Bottom: Vintage cargo pants
- Layer: Bomber or workwear jacket
- Footwear: Chunky sneakers or Docs
🎧 Vibe: Bold, artsy, Susukino-ready
💸 Budget Breakdown
| Item Type | Price Range (¥) | USD Equivalent |
| Tops & Tees | ¥2,000–¥3,000 | $15–25 |
| Jeans / Trousers | ¥4,000–¥8,000 | $30–60 |
| Jackets & Layers | ¥5,000–¥10,000 | $40–75 |
| Accessories | ¥1,000–¥2,000 | $7–15 |
🧥 Outfit Range:
- Full outfit: ¥7,000–¥15,000 ($50–110)
- Three outfits: ¥22,000–¥40,000 ($165–300)
🛣️ Suggested Half-Day Vintage Route
Starting Point:
📍 Your base: Makomanai, Minami-ku, Sapporo
Itinerary:
- Drive to 2nd Street Tsukisamu → 45 min browse
- Head to Mauve Vintage → 30 min browse
- Stop by I LOVE STORE → 30 min browse
- Optional: Tanukikoji Arcade stroll or ramen stop
🕒 Total time: 2–3 hours (perfect post-lunch plan)
🧠 Vintage Shopping Tips (Local Edition)
- Size up/down freely – Japanese sizing can be unpredictable
- Try everything – Even odd-looking pieces may fit beautifully
- Bring cash or card – Most shops accept both, but it varies
- Check AllTrails or Citywalks – Combine shopping with a mini nature walk nearby
💡 Why Go Vintage in Japan?
- ✨ Eco-friendly – Fashion doesn’t have to cost the Earth
- 🌟 Unique style – You’ll never see anyone else wearing your outfit
- 💴 Smart spending – High-quality Japanese fashion brands for a fraction of retail
📸 Final Styling Tip
When in doubt: layer.
Mix textures.
And always carry a reusable tote — you never know what treasure you’ll find next.
👋 Want More Local Secrets?
Tag your finds with #SapporoSlowStyle
or DM us on IG to share your look — we love seeing what you discover.