WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

The philosophy of mottainai (literally “waste not, want not”) runs deep in all aspects of Japanese culture—a custom that is friendly to the environment. Visitors can get a feel of mottainai culture by visiting Shimokitazawa, Koenji and some parts of Harajuku. These areas are choc-a-bloc with second-hand clothing stores, selling everything from vintage luxury brands to pre-owned fashion favorites from the 1980s.