If you love reading in English and are in Japan, finding an English bookstore in Tokyo can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to buy novels, textbooks, or magazines, Tokyo has a surprising number of shops catering to English readers. These bookstores not only sell a wide selection of English language books but also provide helpful services, cozy reading spaces, and knowledgeable staff.
From popular districts to quieter neighborhoods, you can explore diverse offerings and discover bookshops that make reading in English easier and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll introduce five of the best bookstores in Tokyo where you can buy English books in Japan, along with what makes each one unique.
1. Maruzen – Marunouchi
Located near Tokyo Station, Maruzen is a large and well known bookstore in Tokyo with an impressive English section. You can find bestsellers, classic literature, professional reference books, and magazines. The store also offers stationery and an online ordering system for convenience.
The Marunouchi area is vibrant and accessible, making it easy to combine book shopping with sightseeing. If you’re searching for a central hub to buy English books in Japan, this is a top choice. Staff are friendly and often provide recommendations, which is especially helpful for expats or travelers.
Beyond books, Maruzen is also known for its high-quality stationery section, which draws both professionals and students. If you’re in Marunouchi, you can also stroll to the Imperial Palace gardens or stop by the many stylish cafés in the area, making a book-hunting trip feel like a full cultural outing.
2. Books Kinokuniya Tokyo – Shinjuku
Kinokuniya is one of Tokyo’s most famous chains for English language books. The Shinjuku branch that specializes in English titles is not the main store near the station. Instead, it’s located on the 6th floor of the South Shinjuku branch, in the same building as Nitori. Here, you can find novels, non-fiction, manga in English, and imported magazines.
This bookshop in Tokyo also offers gift wrapping and online ordering. Its location on the 6th floor makes it quieter and easier to browse compared to the bustling main store. If you’re looking for a focused selection of English language books in Shinjuku, this is the place to go.
3. Daikanyama T-Site – Tsutaya Books
If you want your book shopping to feel like a lifestyle experience, head to Tsutaya Books in Daikanyama. This elegant bookshop in Tokyo is set within a beautifully designed complex of interconnected buildings, making it one of the most stylish places to buy books in Japan.
The store offers a thoughtfully curated collection of English language books, especially in art, design, fashion, and travel. You’ll also find plenty of international magazines, making it a favorite among creatives and design enthusiasts. With its cafes and lounge-like atmosphere, Tsutaya invites you to relax and enjoy reading right there.
Daikanyama itself is a chic, upscale neighborhood filled with boutique shops and trendy eateries. Many visitors pair a trip to Tsutaya with an afternoon of strolling through the leafy streets, enjoying the balance of calm and creativity that defines the area.
4. Junkudo – Ikebukuro
Junkudo’s Ikebukuro branch is another must visit bookstore in Tokyo. It features a large selection of English language books covering fiction, non-fiction, and academic texts. The store also has a stationery section and occasionally hosts book-related events. Junkudo also has quiet reading corners, which makes it a comfortable spot to linger.
Ikebukuro is a bustling area with many shopping and dining options. Visiting Junkudo allows you to combine book hunting with a day exploring one of Tokyo’s lively neighborhoods. Staff are approachable and are usually happy to recommend titles, making it a welcoming spot for English readers.
5. Book Off – Multiple Locations
Book Off is a chain of second hand bookstores where you can find English language books at very reasonable prices. From novels to study materials, you can buy English books in Japan without breaking the bank. Many locations also have manga, CDs, and DVDs. Stores are scattered across Tokyo, including Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Akihabara, making it easy to pop in whenever you are nearby. Shopping second hand also adds a sustainable element to your reading habit.
Tips for Visiting English Bookstores in Tokyo
- Check for events and readings: Some stores host author talks or book launches in English.
- Bring cash: While most stores accept cards, smaller shops might prefer cash.
- Ask staff for recommendations: Many bookstore employees are bilingual and can guide you to hidden gems.
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