Glossary

Japanese Second-Hand Shopping Glossary

Learn useful words you may see in Japanese reuse shops, vintage stores, luxury resale shops, and product descriptions before you shop.

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chuko

Meaning: Used or second-hand.
Where you may see it: Product descriptions, shop signs, online listings.
Why it matters for tourists: A useful word for understanding that an item is pre-owned.

furugi

Meaning: Used clothing or vintage clothing.
Where you may see it: Fashion shops, clothing sections, streetwear areas.
Why it matters for tourists: Helpful when looking for apparel-focused second-hand shops.

reuse shop

Meaning: A store that buys and sells pre-owned goods.
Where you may see it: Store names, category descriptions, chain store signs.
Why it matters for tourists: A common Japanese retail term for second-hand stores.

recycle shop

Meaning: A broad second-hand store, often with household goods or mixed categories.
Where you may see it: Local shops, suburban stores, larger reuse chains.
Why it matters for tourists: Useful for finding general second-hand goods beyond fashion.

brand resale

Meaning: Second-hand luxury brand resale.
Where you may see it: Luxury bag, watch, jewelry, and designer goods stores.
Why it matters for tourists: Often used for shops specializing in branded items.

vintage

Meaning: Older or curated items with style, age, or collectible appeal.
Where you may see it: Fashion, watches, bags, and specialty stores.
Why it matters for tourists: The meaning varies by shop, so check the item description.

condition rank

Meaning: A store’s grading system for item condition.
Where you may see it: Price tags, product pages, display labels.
Why it matters for tourists: Ranks are not universal, so read each shop’s definition.

Rank S / A / B / C

Meaning: Common condition grade labels, usually from excellent to more visibly used.
Where you may see it: Luxury resale and watch listings.
Why it matters for tourists: Rank meanings differ by store; check the official rank guide.

zaiko

Meaning: Stock or inventory.
Where you may see it: Staff answers, online availability notes.
Why it matters for tourists: Useful when asking if an item is available.

genpin

Meaning: The actual item being sold.
Where you may see it: Used item listings and store explanations.
Why it matters for tourists: Second-hand goods are often one-of-a-kind, so inspect the actual item.

shouhin

Meaning: Product or item.
Where you may see it: Product tags and online listings.
Why it matters for tourists: A basic word for reading store information.

shouhin jouhou

Meaning: Product information.
Where you may see it: Online product pages and item cards.
Why it matters for tourists: Look here for condition, accessories, and notes.

tax-free

Meaning: Tax exemption for eligible visitors and purchases.
Where you may see it: Store signs, cashier areas, official shop pages.
Why it matters for tourists: Rules vary, so confirm eligibility with the store.

authenticity card

Meaning: A brand card that may come with some luxury items.
Where you may see it: Bag and luxury product listings.
Why it matters for tourists: Included items vary; do not assume every item has one.

guarantee card

Meaning: A warranty or guarantee document, often for watches or jewelry.
Where you may see it: Watch listings, product accessory notes.
Why it matters for tourists: Ask what it covers and whether it is still valid.

accessories

Meaning: Included extras such as strap, pouch, papers, or parts.
Where you may see it: Product details and condition notes.
Why it matters for tourists: Included accessories can affect value and usability.

box

Meaning: Original or store-provided box.
Where you may see it: Watch, jewelry, and luxury goods listings.
Why it matters for tourists: Confirm whether it is included before purchase.

dust bag

Meaning: Protective cloth bag for bags or shoes.
Where you may see it: Luxury bag and shoe listings.
Why it matters for tourists: Useful for storage, but not always included.

receipt

Meaning: Proof of purchase.
Where you may see it: Checkout and after-sales policy notes.
Why it matters for tourists: Keep it for tax-free, warranty, or shipping questions.

no return

Meaning: Returns are not accepted.
Where you may see it: Cashier notices and product pages.
Why it matters for tourists: Inspect carefully before paying.

exchange

Meaning: Item exchange.
Where you may see it: Return policy signs or receipts.
Why it matters for tourists: Policies vary and may not apply to used goods.

reservation

Meaning: Reserving an item or appointment.
Where you may see it: Online shop notes or staff communication.
Why it matters for tourists: Ask the store directly; not every shop offers it.

hold

Meaning: Temporary item hold.
Where you may see it: Staff communication and shop policy notes.
Why it matters for tourists: Useful for popular items, but policies vary.

sold out

Meaning: No longer available.
Where you may see it: Product pages and display tags.
Why it matters for tourists: Second-hand items may not restock, so check alternatives.

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