Japan is a paradise for manga lovers, offering an incredible variety of titles for every taste. Whether you’re hunting for rare collector editions, full series, or just looking for affordable everyday volumes, the Japanese second-hand manga market has something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the best online and in-store platforms where you can find cheap second-hand manga in Japan. From popular chains like BOOKOFF to collector-focused stores like Mandarake and Suruga‑ya, we'll cover their advantages, international shipping options, payment methods, and useful tips to help you snag the best deals.

Where to Find Cheap Second-hand Manga in Japan？

1. Online Shopping

Online platforms make it easy to access Japan’s secondhand manga market from anywhere in the world. Some sites offer international shipping directly, while others may require a proxy or forwarding service. Here, we summarize the best online platforms, their strengths, and what to watch out for when buying.

Platform
 International Shipping Suitable For Strengths Notes Rating
BOOKOFF Online ⚠️ Proxy / forwarding required (Buyee, ZenMarket) 📦 Bulk buyers, beginners, affordable volumes 💰 Many cheap secondhand manga, low-price volumes Shipping can be high, better for bulk orders ★★★★☆
Suruga‑ya (駿河屋) ✅ Official international site supports EMS / DHL ⭐ Collectors, rare manga, complete sets Rare manga, complete sets, out-of-print collectibles Some items may still be Japan-only; check stock on International site ★★★★★
Mandarake（まんだらけ） ✅ Supports international shipping (EMS / DHL) ⭐ Collectors, rare manga, doujinshi fans Collector-level, out-of-print manga, doujinshi Different stores ship separately, better to consolidate orders ★★★★★
Mercari（メルカリ） ⚠️ Requires proxy / forwarding Occasional bargain hunters C2C platform, occasionally cheap complete sets / single volumes Check seller rating and item condition ★★★☆☆
Yahoo! Auctions（ヤフオク） ⚠️ Requires proxy / forwarding ⚡ Experienced bidders / bulk buyers Auction for complete sets / bulk manga, flexible pricing Bidding can be risky, international shipping complex ★★★☆☆
Amazon.co.jp ✅ Some items support international shipping Convenient buyers Reliable logistics, wide selection Secondhand prices slightly higher ★★★☆☆
Net Off ⚠️ Japan-only, requires proxy Stable stock seekers Reasonable prices, stable stock Less coverage than BOOKOFF / Suruga‑ya ★★☆☆☆

2. In-Store Shopping

For those visiting Japan, physical stores provide a unique treasure-hunting experience. You can browse shelves, flip through volumes, and find hidden gems not always listed online. The following are the top in-store channels for secondhand manga, with information on location, international shipping, and recommended buyers.

Platform
 Location Suitable For Strengths Notes Rating
BOOKOFF Chain Nationwide 📦 Travelers, beginners, budget buyers Many old issues + cheap manga (110 yen zone) — ★★★★★
Mandarake（まんだらけ） Nakano Broadway, other large stores ⭐ Collectors, rare manga, doujinshi fans Collector-level, out-of-print manga, doujinshi Different stores ship separately ★★★★★
Suruga‑ya (駿河屋) Akihabara, Ikebukuro, other large stores ⭐ Collectors, rare manga Rare / old manga abundant Stock limited ★★★★☆
Jinbōchō (神保町) Tokyo book district (near Jinbōchō / Ochanomizu stations) Treasure-hunting, literary atmosphere Old books / manga, strong treasure-hunting atmosphere — ★★★★☆
Furuhon Ichiba (ふるほん市場) Kyoto Nishijin & other locations Local shoppers Cheap secondhand manga and hobby items — ★★★☆☆

Detailed Guide to Japanese Second-hand Manga Platforms

The table above provides an overview of the main online and in-store second-hand manga platforms in Japan, including their strengths, target users etc. Next, we will provide a detailed guide for each platform, so you can make informed choices for an efficient and cost-effective manga shopping experience in Japan.

1. BOOKOFF Online

Official Website：https://shopping.bookoff.co.jp/

Basic Overview：BOOKOFF Online is the digital extension of Japan’s largest chain of secondhand stores. The platform offers a wide range of manga, from recent volumes to older, affordable editions. Its user-friendly website allows manga enthusiasts to browse thousands of titles conveniently, making it ideal for bulk purchases or building a collection on a budget. With regular updates and seasonal promotions, BOOKOFF Online caters to both casual readers and serious collectors. The platform’s interface makes it easy to search by series, volume number, or price, giving buyers full control over their selection.

Image from bookoff.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Huge selection of low-cost volumes, including 110-yen classics.

  • Frequent updates and restocking of popular titles.

  • Easy to compare prices and find bargains.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: Japanese credit cards (VISA / MasterCard / JCB / AMEX) as well as PayPay, convenience store payments, and bank transfers.

  • International Shipping: Requires proxy / forwarding services such as Buyee or ZenMarket

  • Cost: Small boxes ~¥2,000–4,000.

  • Delivery Time: Typically 7–12 days.

Notes & Tips:

  • Combine multiple volumes in a single order to save on shipping.

  • Check manga condition photos carefully.

  • Best for beginners or bulk buyers looking for affordable daily volumes.

2. Suruga‑ya (駿河屋) 

Official Website：https://www.suruga-ya.com/

Basic Overview：Suruga‑ya’s online platform is a paradise for collectors and manga enthusiasts. It specializes in rare, out-of-print editions and complete sets, offering a diverse catalog that is difficult to find elsewhere. The official international site allows overseas buyers to purchase directly without relying entirely on proxy services. Suruga‑ya also provides detailed photos and descriptions for each item, ensuring collectors can make informed decisions. Regular auctions and sales add an extra layer of excitement, making it a must-visit site for serious manga hunters.

Image from suruga-ya.com, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Rare and collectible manga, including older and discontinued volumes

  • Wide selection of full sets for series collectors

  • Occasional limited editions or exclusive online items

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: The domestic website supports Japanese domestic credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, JCB, and AMEX, as well as convenience store payments, bank transfers, PayPay, and postal money orders. The international website supports international credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club, as well as PayPal and Alipay.

  • International Shipping: EMS / DHL via official international site. Please visit the Suruga-ya international website for details on available countries!

  • Cost: For every 10,000 yen spent on a single purchase,  it will discount 500 yen off the shipping cost.

  • Delivery Time: Approximately 5–10 days.

Notes & Tips:

  • Consolidate multiple volumes to save on shipping costs.

  • Check international site stock as some items remain Japan-only.

  • Online browsing allows collectors to locate rare items efficiently.

3. Mandarake（まんだらけ）

Official Website：https://order.mandarake.co.jp/order/

Basic Overview：Mandarake’s online platform is renowned for its collector-level manga and doujinshi. With multiple specialized stores contributing to the online catalog, it offers an impressive variety of rare editions, full sets, and unique items. The international shipping option ensures collectors worldwide can access these treasures. Mandarake provides clear condition grading and images for each item, making it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for. Seasonal promotions and exclusive online releases make it especially attractive for dedicated collectors.

Image from mandarake.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Collector-level, out-of-print manga and doujinshi.

  • Full sets and rare volumes available online.

  • Regular updates with new rare items.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX credit cards and PayPal (recommended for international users). Domestic users in Japan can also use convenience store payments and bank transfers. All orders are settled in Japanese Yen, and international credit cards are automatically converted to Japanese exchange rates.

  • International Shipping:  covering Asia, Europe, North America, and most other regions. Shipping methods include Japan Post EMS, DHL, FedEx, and Surface Mail.

  • Cost: Depending on weight and destination, a typical light package containing books costs approximately 1,200–2,500 yen.

  • Delivery Time: Typically 5–10 days

Notes & Tips:

  • Different stores ship separately; consolidate orders if possible.

  • Rare items sell quickly; check frequently.

4. Mercari（メルカリ）

Official Website：https://jp.mercari.com/

Basic Overview：Mercari is a popular Japanese C2C marketplace where individual sellers list items directly to buyers. It’s known for occasionally offering manga at bargain prices, including single volumes and sometimes complete sets. The platform is dynamic, with listings constantly updated, making it exciting for bargain hunters. Mercari’s mobile-friendly app allows quick browsing and instant notifications for new listings, which is especially useful for spotting rare or cheap items as soon as they appear.

Image from jp.mercari.com, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Occasional bargains on single volumes or complete sets.

  • .Wide variety of sellers and conditions.

  • Frequent updates with new listings.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: International credit cards (Visa / MasterCard / AMEX), PayPal, Apple Pay / Google Pay – depending on the proxy.

  • International Shipping: Requires proxy / forwarding service (e.g., Buyee).

  • Cost & Delivery Time: Depends on proxy service; typically 7–14 days.

Notes & Tips:

  • Check seller ratings and item condition carefully.

  • Be quick—good deals sell fast.

  • Ideal for occasional purchases or flexible buyers.

5. Yahoo! Auctions（ヤフオク）

Official Website：https://auctions.yahoo.co.jp/

Basic Overview：Yahoo! Auctions is Japan’s leading online auction platform, widely used for manga collectors seeking rare editions or full sets. The auction format allows buyers to potentially get items at lower prices than standard listings, adding excitement to the shopping experience. The platform is competitive and fast-moving, ideal for experienced bidders who enjoy the thrill of winning auctions.

Image from yahoo.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Auctions can yield rare or discontinued manga at good prices.

  • Large inventory, including complete series.

  • Regularly updated with new auctions.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment:  International credit cards (Visa / MasterCard / AMEX), PayPal, Apple Pay / Google Pay – depending on the proxy.

  • International Shipping:  Requires proxy / forwarding service (e.g., Buyee)

  • Cost & Delivery Time: Depends on item weight and proxy; typically 7–14 days

Notes & Tips:

  • Monitor auctions closely and set a maximum bid.

  • Combine items to save on shipping.

  • Best for experienced buyers familiar with auction bidding.

6. Amazon.co.jp

Official Website：https://www.amazon.co.jp/

Basic Overview：Amazon Japan provides a convenient and reliable platform for purchasing manga, both new and secondhand. While secondhand options are somewhat more expensive than specialized sites, the platform is known for its smooth logistics and large selection. Some items are eligible for international shipping, making it easier for overseas buyers to order directly without a proxy service.

Image from amazon.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Reliable shipping and delivery.

  • Wide range of manga titles, including secondhand volumes.

  • Easy to search and compare prices.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: international credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club) and Amazon gift cards. Some items accept PayPay and Amazon Pay. Overseas users can use their linked international cards to pay, with prices denominated in Japanese Yen (exchange rate automatically calculated by the bank).

  • International Shipping:  Products marked "AmazonGlobal Available" or "Ships to [Country]" are eligible for international shipping. Logistics partners include DHL, FedEx, and Japan Post (EMS). Estimated international shipping costs and import taxes are automatically calculated at checkout. Most comic books can be shipped to major countries and regions including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

  • Cost & Delivery Time: Varies by seller; typically 5–12 days for international orders.

Notes & Tips:

  • Check item condition and seller rating for secondhand purchases.

  • Convenient for quick purchases or when seeking hard-to-find volumes.

7. Net Off

Official Website：https://www.netoff.co.jp/

Basic Overview：Net Off is a Japanese online platform specializing in secondhand books and manga. Known for reasonable prices and stable stock, it offers a good option for standard series volumes. The platform focuses on efficiency and convenience, though it has more limited international shipping options compared to other specialized sites.

Image from netoff.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Affordable prices for common manga.

  • Stable stock availability.

  • Easy to navigate and search.

Payment, Shipping & Delivery:

  • Payment: International credit cards (Visa / MasterCard / AMEX), PayPal, Apple Pay / Google Pay – depending on the proxy.

  • International Shipping: Japan-only, requires proxy.

  • Cost & Delivery Time: Proxy-dependent; typically 7–14 days.

Notes & Tips:

  • Ideal for standard volumes rather than rare editions.

  • Combine multiple volumes for shipping efficiency.

8. BOOKOFF Chain

Official Website：https://www.bookoff.co.jp/inbound/kanto/

Basic Overview：BOOKOFF is Japan’s largest chain of secondhand stores, with hundreds of locations nationwide. Its physical stores offer an immersive treasure-hunting experience where buyers can browse shelves packed with manga, light novels, and other secondhand media. Many stores feature the famous 110-yen section, making it a paradise for bargain hunters.

Image from bookoff.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Wide range of low-cost manga, including classics and older volumes.

  • Immediate access to physical copies, no waiting for shipping.

  • Stores frequently restock popular titles.

Payment: Cash and credit card accepted.

Notes & Tips:

  • Visit Nakano Broadway for the largest selection.

  • Inspect item condition carefully.

  • Some rare items may require negotiation or quick decision.

9. Mandarake（まんだらけ）

Official Website：https://earth.mandarake.co.jp/shop/

Basic Overview：Mandarake’s physical stores, such as the flagship in Nakano Broadway, Tokyo, are iconic destinations for manga collectors. These stores specialize in rare, out-of-print volumes, doujinshi, and collector’s items. Visiting a Mandarake store is like exploring a manga museum, with shelves stacked high and organized by genre and rarity.

Image from mandarake.co.jp, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Rare and collectible manga not commonly found elsewhere.

  • Full sets and exclusive doujinshi editions.

  • Opportunity to see and inspect items before purchase.

Payment: Cash and credit card accepted.

Notes & Tips:

  • Visit Nakano Broadway for the largest selection.

  • Inspect item condition carefully.

  • Some rare items may require negotiation or quick decision.

10. Suruga‑ya (駿河屋)

Official Website：https://www.suruga-ya.com/

Basic Overview：Suruga‑ya has several large physical stores in Tokyo, such as in Akihabara and Ikebukuro. The stores are known for their wide range of collectible and older manga editions. The atmosphere is more organized and professional compared to flea-market style shops, with clear shelving and signage.

Image from suruga-ya.com, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Wide selection of rare and older manga editions.

  • Some complete sets available.

  • Can see the condition of manga before purchase.

Payment: Cash and credit card accepted.

Notes & Tips:

  • Check multiple floors for rare finds.

  • Larger stores often have hidden gems in upper floors.

  • Bring a shopping bag and small change for small purchases.

11. Jinbōchō (神保町) – Tokyo Book Town

Official Website：https://en.jimbou.info/

Basic Overview：Jinbōchō, near Ochanomizu Station, is Tokyo’s famous book district, renowned for used book shops. It offers a vibrant atmosphere where manga collectors can explore countless small shops with specialized collections. The area is particularly attractive to those who enjoy browsing and discovering rare old editions in person.

Image from jimbou.info, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Rich collection of older manga and classic volumes.

  • Opportunities to find rare or unique items.

  • Immersive book-shopping experience with a literary ambiance.

Payment: Cash preferred, some stores accept credit card.

Notes & Tips:

  • Bring tote bags or backpacks to carry multiple books conveniently.

  • Be patient while browsing, as each store may only display part of its inventory.

  • Peak times (weekends or holidays) can be crowded, so plan your visit accordingly.

  • Pay attention to pricing and item conditions; some rare collector editions can be expensive.

12. Furuhon Ichiba (ふるほん市場) 

Official Website：https://www.furu1.net/

Basic Overview：Furuhon Ichiba is a regional second-hand manga and book chain in Japan, with locations in Kyoto, Nishijin, and other areas. It is known for affordable prices and a wide selection, including not only manga but also light novels, art books, and hobby-related goods. Compared to Tokyo’s large chains and collector-focused stores, Furuhon Ichiba caters more to everyday manga buyers and local collectors.

Image from furu1.net, Copyright by original author

Key Strengths：

  • Affordable prices with stable stock, ideal for everyday manga purchases.

  • Wide variety of manga, especially second-hand everyday volumes, light novels, and hobby-related books.

  • Regional chain, convenient for travelers visiting Kyoto and surrounding areas.

Payment: Cash accepted; credit card in some stores.

Notes & Tips:

  • Bring tote bags or backpacks to carry multiple books at once.

  • Inventory may not be as extensive as larger chains; be prepared to browse carefully.

  • Stores can be crowded on weekends or holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.

Final Summary

When buying secondhand manga in Japan, both online platforms and physical stores have their own advantages and suitable use cases.

Online Platforms:

Ideal for remote purchasing and bulk selection, allowing you to easily compare prices and conditions.

Suruga‑ya International, Mandarake International, and Amazon.co.jp are suitable for collector-level manga and complete sets.

BOOKOFF Online, Mercari, and Yahoo! Auctions are better for everyday low-cost volumes or occasional bargains.

Pay attention to international shipping, fees, and payment methods, and use forwarding services when necessary.

In-Store Platforms:

Perfect for travelers or long-term residents in Japan, allowing you to select manga in person and enjoy the thrill of hunting for treasures.

BOOKOFF stores are great for everyday low-cost manga, while Mandarake and Suruga‑ya cater to collectors and rare editions.

Book streets (like Jinbōchō) and large manga department stores are worth dedicating time to—remember to bring bags for your purchases.

Buying Strategy:

For convenience and peace of mind: prioritize online platforms that support official international shipping.

For bargains or occasional deals: use BOOKOFF Online, Mercari, or Yahoo! Auctions combined with forwarding services.

For an immersive treasure-hunting experience: visit physical stores and book streets during your trip to Japan.

By combining online browsing and in-store selection, your secondhand manga buying journey can be efficient, cost-effective, and full of fun.