Book Stores and Libraries in Japan for English Readers

As an English speaker living in Japan, finding books in your native language can feel like a challenge—but it doesn't have to be. Japan has a rich literary culture, with an extensive network of public libraries and a surprising number of bookstores that stock substantial English-language collections. Whether you're looking for the latest bestseller, a classic novel, or academic texts, this guide will walk you through every option available to English readers in Japan.

Japan takes books seriously. With 33.8 million registered library patrons borrowing 653.8 million books annually, the country has one of the most active reading cultures in the world. And for foreigners, access to English books—both for purchase and borrowing—is more accessible than many expect.

!English books and library shelves in Japan

Major English Bookstores in Japan

Several large bookstore chains and specialty stores across Japan maintain impressive English-language sections. Here's a breakdown of the best options:

Books Kinokuniya Tokyo

Kinokuniya is arguably the most famous bookstore chain for English speakers in Japan. The dedicated foreign language store at Takashimaya Times Square Annex, 6th floor in Shinjuku is a must-visit. You'll find:

• English fiction and non-fiction bestsellers
• Children's books in English
• Books in French, German, Spanish, and Italian
• Manga and comics in English
• Regular author meet-and-greet events

Multiple Kinokuniya branches exist across Tokyo, including in Seibu Shibuya and Shinjuku Main Store. Several locations also include a café, making it a great place to browse and read.

Yaesu Book Center

Located at 2-5-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku (near Tokyo Station), the Yaesu Book Center spans nine floors with over a million books. The 7th floor is dedicated to a massive foreign-language section featuring English, French, and German titles—including bestsellers, social science texts, and books about Japan. Free coin lockers are available on the first floor.

Daikanyama T-Site (Tsutaya Books)

One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world—literally named among the world's 20 most beautiful bookstores—Daikanyama T-Site at 17-5 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku is an experience in itself. Open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m., this elegant bookshop features:

• 30,000+ vintage magazines and rare periodicals
• Curated English books in art, design, fashion, and travel
• A sophisticated café (Anjin) on the 2nd floor
• A salon lounge for reading

Maruzen Marunouchi

Located near Tokyo Station, Maruzen Marunouchi is a large four-floor bookstore with a strong English section. It's especially known for bestsellers, classic literature, professional reference books, and academic titles.

Infinity Books (Asakusa)

A hidden gem for English readers, Infinity Books at 1-2-4 Azumabashi, Sumida-ku (5-minute walk from Asakusa station) offers:

• Thousands of English books
• A book exchange program (bring a book, get a book)
• Regular book readings and poetry events
• Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m. (closed Mondays)

For more information about shopping in Japan, check out our Complete Guide to Shopping in Japan. You can also find a comprehensive bookstore guide at Savvy Tokyo and Japan Living Guide.

Second-Hand English Bookstores in Japan

Buying English books new can be expensive in Japan. Second-hand options offer excellent value:

Kitazawa Bookstore (Jimbocho)

Founded in 1902, Kitazawa Bookstore in the Jimbocho bookstore district (Kanda, Chiyoda-ku) stocks approximately 12,000 used English and American literature books. Hours are 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m. weekdays and 12–5:30 p.m. Saturdays. The books are meticulously maintained and reasonably priced.

The Jimbocho Bookstore District

The Jimbocho area in Chiyoda-ku is Japan's most famous district for used books. While most stores specialize in Japanese texts, several carry English titles. Notable stops include:

• Kitazawa Bookstore (English literature)
• Isseido Booksellers (Asian history, travel journals, over a century old)
• Various antique book dealers

Book Off

Book Off is Japan's largest second-hand book chain with hundreds of locations nationwide. English books appear regularly in the ¥100–¥500 sections—you can find novels, study materials, and even manga in English at very affordable prices. The selection varies widely by location, with stores in international areas of Tokyo tending to have more English titles.

!Second-hand bookstores in Jimbocho Tokyo

English Books in Japanese Public Libraries

Japan's public library system is extensive and, best of all, completely free to use. Here's everything you need to know as a foreign resident:

How to Get a Library Card

Getting a library card in Japan is straightforward:

1. Visit your local library in person (search 図書館 tosho-kan on Google Maps)
2. Fill out an application form at the reception desk
3. Show your residence card (在留カード) with your current address
4. Receive your card on the same day—it's free

Eligibility: Foreign residents are eligible as long as they have lived at a fixed address for 2 months or longer. For a step-by-step guide, see Japan Living Guide's library borrowing guide. Most libraries accept any resident, though some restrict cards to those living or working within a specific ward.

What Can You Borrow?

Tokyo's Best Libraries for English Readers

Tokyo Metropolitan Central Library (Minato-ku) holds approximately 230,000 foreign language books, with about 64% being Western language (mostly English), 27% Chinese, and 9% Korean. Note: materials here are for browsing only, not borrowing.

Minato City Libraries offer English children's books at all branches and e-books including English titles. These are particularly useful for families raising children in Japan. (See our guide on Raising Children in Japan.)

Katsushika Central Library maintains over 4,000 English books out of its 300,000-book collection—one of the larger community English collections in Tokyo.

Shibuya Chuo Library features many children's books in English, making it a popular spot for expat families.

Minato Library has a frequently updated collection of foreign language books and includes a Japanese learning corner with resources for non-Japanese speakers.

Online Resources for English Books in Japan

Beyond physical stores and libraries, several online options help English readers get their fix:

• Amazon Japan (amazon.co.jp): Ships quickly and often cheaper than physical stores for new English titles. Amazon Kindle also works seamlessly in Japan.
• Kindle Store: The English Kindle store is fully accessible in Japan—unlimited library subscription included if you have Amazon Prime.
• Book Off Online (bookoffonline.com): Order second-hand books for delivery, often for as little as ¥1 plus shipping.
• Book Mooch (bookmooch.com): International book exchange platform where you can swap books with others worldwide.
• Project Gutenberg: Thousands of free public domain English books downloadable anywhere.

For more guidance on navigating daily life as a foreigner, visit Living in Nihon for helpful expat resources.

English Book Resources Beyond Tokyo

While Tokyo has the most options, other major cities also cater to English readers:

Osaka:

• Kinokuniya Umeda has a solid English section
• Maruzen Namba offers foreign language books

Kyoto:

• Green E Books (near Marutamachi Metro station): Second-hand English novels, academic texts, and guidebooks at very reasonable prices
• Maruzen Kyoto (inside Kyoto BAL): Strong English section near Kawaramachi

Nagoya:

• Maruzen Nagoya Main Store carries a range of English titles

Online access: No matter where you live in Japan, Amazon Japan and Kindle provide nationwide access to English books.

For tips on settling into Japanese daily life outside Tokyo, check our Complete Guide to Daily Life in Japan.

Tips for Finding English Books in Japan

Here are practical strategies English readers use to stay stocked with books in Japan:

1. Join expat community groups: Facebook groups like "Tokyo Expats" and "English Books Japan" regularly list free or cheap book giveaways
2. Check library e-book services: Many Tokyo ward libraries now offer e-book borrowing with English titles
3. Visit university libraries: Some universities (like Temple University Japan) allow community members to use their English collections
4. Use the internet archive: Internet Archive (archive.org) hosts millions of borrowable digital books
5. Explore the Jimbocho district: Even if your Japanese is limited, exploring this bookstore district is a worthwhile afternoon adventure
6. Ask your ward office: Local ward offices can tell you which nearby libraries have the best English collections

For workers in Japan looking for English-language professional development books, For Work in Japan offers resources and guides for foreign professionals. Additionally, Ittenshoku provides practical advice for expats navigating Japanese systems.

Comparison: Buying vs. Borrowing English Books in Japan

Conclusion

Finding English books in Japan is far more achievable than many newcomers expect. Between dedicated English sections at major bookstore chains like Kinokuniya and Maruzen, the treasure trove of second-hand books in Jimbocho, free public libraries with foreign language collections, and the convenience of e-readers and Amazon Japan—English readers are well catered for across the country.

Whether you're a casual reader looking for beach reads or a voracious bookworm who can't imagine life without your next novel, Japan's English book ecosystem has you covered. The key is knowing where to look—and now you do.

For more resources on settling into life in Japan as a foreigner, explore our Complete Guide to Moving to Japan and Daily Life in Japan Guide.