If you study Japanese, you need a good textbook as well as good teacher. In this article, I’d like to introduce bookstores in Tokyo that offer a wide selection of Japanese language learning materials. You should definitely visit them.
First, let’s start with general bookstores: → Kinokuniya, Junkudo, and Mauzen.
Then, I’ll also introduce bookstores commonly used by Japanese language teachers for your reference: → Bonjinsya, Nihongo books, and Sogakusya.
Now, let’s go find a book!!
Kinokuniya
Kinokuniya is a well-known and historic bookstore with branches throughout Japan. While there are several locations in Tokyo, the most recommended one is in Shinjuku.
- Shinjuku Main Store: Located near the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, this bookstore occupies the entire building from the 1st to the 8th floor. It boasts a wide selection of Japanese language learning materials, making it convenient for those studying for the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test). You’ll find textbooks neatly organized by levels from N1 to N5, and there’s also an extensive collection of books for teachers.
- Shinjuku South Store (also known as Books Kinokuniya Tokyo): This store specializes in foreign language books, particularly English. It’s considered one of the largest foreign bookstores in Japan. If you’re interested in more than just textbooks and want to explore other kinds of books, this store is highly recommended.
Both stores are within about a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku station. To reach the Shinjuku Main Store, head from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. For the Shinjuku South Store, head from the South Exit (located on the 6th floor of the Takashimaya Times Square South Building). Note that the entrance to the Shinjuku Main Store can also be accessed via the underground passage, although it might be a bit tricky to find.
新宿本店 | 紀伊國屋書店 – 本の「今」に会いに行こう (kinokuniya.co.jp)
Junkudo Ikebukuro honten
Junkudo Ikebukuro honten is a massive bookstore that boasts one of the largest retail floor spaces in Japan, competing for the top spot. On the 8th floor, at the very back, you’ll find a dense collection of books related to learning Japanese. There are plenty of books available, not only for language learners but also for teachers. The sheer variety of genres and the extensive range of books make this place a favorite among teachers.
The entire building, spanning from the basement to the 9th floor, is dedicated to this bookstore. It’s incredibly spacious. Visitors can find comfortable chairs throughout, and many people take their time reading books there like a library.
Additionally, on the 4th floor, there’s a café where you can enjoy your newly purchased books right away.
The nearest station is Ikebukuro Station, and it’s about a 5-6 minute walk from the east exit.
Maruzen marunouchi honten
Maruzen marunouchi honten is a bookstore right in front of Tokyo Station. On the corner of the foreign language book section, you’ll find Japanese language learning books. While there might be fewer books compared to Kinokuniya and Junkudo, it offers a variety of resources suitable for self-study, in addition to commonly used textbooks in Japanese language schools.Although I’ve only been there a few times, I’ve noticed enthusiastic Japanese learners carefully selecting books.
Access is straightforward: exit Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit and cross the street diagonally to reach the building. It’s just a minute away, and since it’s connected underground, you won’t get wet even on rainy days.
丸善・丸の内本店｜ショップ・サービス｜Marunouchi.com
Bonjinsha
Bonjinsha is a publishing company that produces numerous Japanese language textbooks.In addition to their own publications, they offer a wide range of texts.
Visitors can find tables and chair sets where they can sit and peruse books.
It’s conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Kojimachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and Hanzomon Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line.
アクセス | 世界の日本語教育に貢献するにほんごの凡人社 (bonjinsha.com)
Nihongo Books Tokyo Kameido : TOKYO Kameido bookstore
Nihongo Books Tokyo Kameido, also known as TOKYO Kameido bookstore, associated with the publisher Gobunkenkyusha, also offers a variety of Japanese language textbooks beyond their own publications.
While the space is smaller than Bonjinsha, they provide water servers and tables with chairs.
The nearest station is Kameido Station on the JR Sobu Line, approximately a 5-minute walk away.
Sogakusha
Although the space is limited, Sogakusha offers a collection of Japanese language-related books, including both new and old titles. Research materials are also available.
The closest station is Jimbocho Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line and Toei Mita Line, about a 5-minute walk from there.
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
The three stores above : Bonjinsha, Nihongo Books Tokyo Kameido, and Sogakusha, specialize in Japanese language books for learners and teachers. These shops are located in slightly hard-to-find places, as they are not typical bookstores for general customers. It’s understandable given their unique focus. I recommend checking the directions to get there thoroughly before visiting.
Additionally, these stores offer a 10% discount if you pay in cash, which is quite a deal. However, I cannot confirm whether they have staff who speak foreign languages. If you have specific inquiries, it might be a good idea to inquire in advance.
HAPPY BOOK HUNTING!!! ( ´∀｀ )
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