AsiaLIFE

Thrift Japan is a true secret. Located in a warehouse on France Street a few blocks north of Wat Phnom, the shop used to have a big sign indicating its name and whereabouts. That disappeared a good while ago so it is difficult to say whether the shop is even called Thrift Japan at all anymore. It also goes by the name of Tokyo Thrift. Words by Nora Lindstrom.

Thankfully, despite the lack of a sign and confusion over the name, the place remains open. Even more importantly, it remains full of exciting, interesting and funky second-hand clothing. It’s dead cheap too, with prices starting at 2,000 riel. You will be hard pushed to find many items with price tags for over US$3. Browsing the vast assortment is relatively easy as items are sorted according to type of clothing. You can find anything from micro-pants, through duffel coats, to kids’ jumpsuits and pullovers. The unusual dresses are particular favourites among many female expat shoppers. There are also a number of cool shirts in less common designs and patterns, and a wide assortment of jeans.

Imported from Japan, sizes vary from Khmer to western, meaning there is something for just about everyone. Also, if you know your Japanese designers, you may be able to score some true gems. Should something not quite fit, it’s not a big investment to buy it anyway and have it altered later. One of the most fantastic things about this vintage shoppers’ paradise is the “ten items for half price” offer. If you, or you and your friends, buy more than ten items altogether you will receive a 50 percent discount. It sounds unbelievable, but it’s true. By buying ten items for around a dollar each, you will end up paying only five bucks in the end! What is also verging on the incredible is the constant amount of new stock. Turnover is so quick that you can visit on a weekly basis yet always find great new items to fill your wardrobe.

A nice change from the usual Cambodian shopping experience is that you are left in peace to find your treasures. In addition, there are changing rooms with mirrors. Ceiling fans provide bargain hunters some relief, but don’t kid yourself, shopping at Thrift Japan is always a hot and sweaty experience. For the uninitiated, a real downside is how difficult it can be to find the place. Once you’ve managed to hunt it down however, you have a seemingly endless supply of unique and different clothes, at rock bottom prices.

“Thrift Japan”, France Street (Street 47)