The racks at Hitodenashi, an unmanned thrift shop in Yokusuka, Japan, are packed with an eclectic mix. Levi's jeans, Gap hoodies, American Eagle polos and a bunch of Japanese vintage gems. (Marc Castaneda/Stars and Stripes)
There’s an unusual thrift store near Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, that operates entirely on trust.
Hitodenashi has no cashiers, checkout counters or employees to keep watch. Instead, shoppers browse at their own pace, add up their purchases and drop the correct amount of cash into an honesty box before leaving with their finds.
A sign outside sums up the concept perfectly: “For honest customers.”
Inside, the atmosphere feels more like an art space than a retail store. A colorful chandelier hangs above racks of secondhand clothing, while concrete walls are covered with anime-style murals, retro posters and playful signs. One reads, “If you can read this, I can see you.”
During a recent visit, I had the store to myself for nearly 30 minutes before another customer quietly stepped inside, selected an item and left after making a purchase.
The racks are packed with an eclectic mix of clothing, from Levi’s jeans, Gap hoodies and American Eagle polos to vintage Japanese pieces.
There are no cashiers or checkout counters at Hitodenashi, a thrift shop in Yokosuka, Japan. Shoppers tally up their items and slip the payment into an honesty box. (Marc Castaneda/Stars and Stripes)
Prices start at 500 yen. The most expensive item I spotted — a weathered leather jacket full of character — was marked at 8,000 yen, or about $50.
Part of the appeal of thrift shopping is finding clothing with a story. Denim softened by years of wear, jackets molded to previous owners and the satisfaction of discovering something unexpected all add to the experience.
I left with a pair of no-brand indigo carpenter pants and a couple of vintage Japanese T-shirts for about 2,000 yen.
After browsing, shoppers can grab a bowl of tempura at nearby restaurant or walk up a hill to a Starbucks overlooking one of Yokosuka’s busiest streets. Both are only a few minutes away by foot.
Hitodenashi is an unmanned thrift shop in Yokosuka, Japan, that relies solely on the honesty of its customers. (Marc Castaneda/Stars and Stripes)
On the QT
Directions: It’s a short walk from Yokosuka-Chuo Station to the shop at 3-9, 1F, Wakamatsucho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-0007
Times: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Costs: Most items start at 500 yen.
Food: You’ll find several dining options in the surrounding neighborhood.
Information: 046-8769-987
