How to Choose a Pre-Owned Hermès Store in Ginza, Tokyo (2026 Guide)

The short answer: Ginza has many pre-owned luxury stores within walking distance of each other. Choose a store that explains how each bag was authenticated, grades condition in writing, lists the accessories and stamp (year mark), shows the full price with tax, and serves you in your language. Check the store's stock online before you go, and message the store with the item number before your visit.

Why Ginza for pre-owned Hermès

Ginza, in central Tokyo, is where many of Japan's luxury resale stores sit side by side, a few minutes' walk from Hermès Ginza itself. Visitors come for three reasons:

• Choice. You can compare several Birkins, Kellys or Constances in one afternoon.
• Condition. Japanese resale stores are known for detailed condition grading and careful storage.
• Price. Prices depend on the model, leather, colour and year. Compare the same model across stores rather than assuming Japan is always cheaper.

7 things to check before you buy

1. How the bag was authenticated

Ask who authenticated the bag and how. A reliable store can explain its process: stitching, hardware, heat stamp, leather, and the stamp that shows the year. Ask whether the store guarantees authenticity in writing after the sale.

2. A written condition grade

Most stores in Japan use a letter or rank (for example "N" for new or unused, "S", "A", "B"). Ask what each rank means at that store, and look closely at the corners, handles, interior and hardware. Good stores photograph wear and point it out before you ask.

3. Accessories and paperwork

Check what comes with the bag: dust bag, box, raincoat, clochette, lock and keys, and any receipt. "Full set" means different things at different stores, so ask for the list.

4. The stamp (year mark)

Hermès bags carry a letter stamp that shows the year of production (for example "B" for 2023, "W" for 2024). The stamp should be stated on the tag or listing, together with the size, leather and hardware colour (gold or palladium).

5. A clear price, with tax

Ask for the full price including 10% consumption tax. From 1 November 2026, Japan's tax-free shopping changed to a refund system: you pay the price including tax at the store, show your passport, have customs confirm the items when you leave Japan (within 90 days of purchase, before you check in your luggage), and the tax is then refunded. Ask the store how the refund is paid and how long it takes.

6. Language and payment

Check whether staff speak English or Chinese, and which payments are accepted (credit cards, cash, and in some stores Alipay, WeChat Pay or UnionPay). Many stores can quote prices in your currency, but the charge is in yen.

7. After the sale

Ask whether the store can hold an item until your visit (policies differ), whether it ships overseas, and whether it can help with repairs or spa care later.

Warning signs

• The store cannot tell you who authenticated the bag.
• No condition grade, or the photos hide the corners and handles.
• The price changes once you are at the counter, or tax is not shown.
• Pressure to decide on the spot, with no time to inspect the bag.

Plan your visit

1. Check stock online first. Most Ginza stores list their bags online. Note the item number.
2. Message the store. Send the item number by WhatsApp, WeChat or email to check it is still available, and ask about holding it if you need to.
3. Bring your passport for the tax refund.
4. Leave time to compare. The stores are close together; two or three hours is enough for several.

About LUXARIA

LUXARIA is a pre-owned luxury store in Ginza 7-chome, a 5-minute walk from Ginza Station. It focuses on Hermès bags (Birkin, Kelly, Constance, Picotin), together with Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels and Rolex.

• Every item is authenticated before sale.
• Staff speak English and Chinese.
• Credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay and UnionPay are accepted.
• Tax-free shopping for eligible items: when you buy in store, the procedure is done at our tax-free counter. Bring your passport.
• Address: 1F New Ginza Building No. 8, 7-5-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061
• Hours: 11:30–20:00
• Message us on WhatsApp to check an item before you visit: WhatsApp
• Browse pre-owned Hermès in stock

Visiting Maison Hermès in Ginza? See what to know near Maison Hermès Ginza.

FAQ

Is it safe to buy pre-owned Hermès in Japan?

Japan's resale market is large and well established, but quality varies by store. Choose a store that explains its authentication and gives a written condition grade.

Is Hermès cheaper in Japan?

Sometimes, but not always. Prices depend on the model, leather, colour, year and the exchange rate. Compare the same model and condition across stores.

Do I get tax-free shopping in Japan in 2026?

Yes, for eligible visitors and items. Since 1 November 2026 you pay tax at the store and it is refunded after customs confirms the items when you leave Japan.

Can I reserve a bag before my trip?

Policies differ by store. At LUXARIA we generally cannot hold items, but please message us with the item number and we will do our best to help.

What does the stamp on a Hermès bag mean?

It is a letter that shows the year the bag was made. Stores should state it on the tag or listing.