The History of Jinbocho
Jinbocho, located in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, is known as a town of secondhand and academic books. From the Meiji era to the early Showa era, many universities and publishers gathered in this area, naturally developing Jinbocho into a book town. Today, over 200 bookstores line the streets, offering a wide variety of books, including secondhand books, academic texts, magazines, manga, and valuable ukiyo-e prints.
Jinbocho as a Secondhand Book Town
Jinbocho is Japan’s largest secondhand book town, with many bookstores lining its streets. Some stores are particularly worth visiting.
Recommended Bookstores
- Sanseido Bookstore
- A large bookstore that offers a wide range of genres, from secondhand books to the latest publications. Their selection of academic books is especially extensive.
- Book House Cafe
- A specialized bookstore for picture books that can be enjoyed by both parents and children. The store also features a café, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy their books.
- Kanda Secondhand Book Center
- A building housing several secondhand bookstores specializing in various genres. Here, you can find books on history, literature, art, and more.
The Charm of Ukiyo-e
In Jinbocho, you can find not only secondhand books but also ukiyo-e and other artworks. Ukiyo-e are traditional Japanese woodblock prints produced from the Edo period to the Meiji period, known for their beautiful colors and unique style.
Recommended Ukiyo-e Shops
- Harashobo
- A specialized store offering high-quality ukiyo-e, attracting both beginners and collectors with its impressive selection.
- Yamada Shoten
- A bookstore specializing in ukiyo-e, offering a wide range of prints from rare pieces to more affordable options.
How to Enjoy Jinbocho
Secondhand Book Festival
Every autumn, the “Kanda Secondhand Book Festival” is held, where many secondhand bookstores set up stalls, providing a perfect opportunity to find rare and valuable books.
Café Hopping
Jinbocho is home to many cafés, ideal for taking a break during your bookstore visits. For example, “Jinbocho Book Cafe” offers a comfortable space to enjoy reading.
Cultural Events
Jinbocho regularly hosts cultural events such as talk shows and book signings. Lectures by renowned authors and scholars are also frequent, making it a must-visit for book lovers.
Conclusion
Jinbocho is a town rich in charm, known for its secondhand books and ukiyo-e prints. As you explore the historical bookstores and art shops, you can feel the deep cultural and historical atmosphere. Why not visit Jinbocho on a weekend to find your next great read or a beautiful ukiyo-e print? Additionally, by using Forwarding Service Japan, you can easily obtain the secondhand books and ukiyo-e you purchase in Jinbocho from abroad, delivered right to your doorstep. Consider using Forwarding Service Japan for your next purchase.
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