For tourists visiting Japan, luxury secondhand goods make for attractive souvenirs. Two of the most popular destinations are Komehyo and Brand Off.
But which one should you visit?
This article provides a thorough comparison of both stores from a tourist’s perspective, helping you make the perfect choice for your shopping needs.
What You Should Know First
They’re Actually Sister Companies
You might be surprised to learn that both Komehyo and Brand Off are owned by Komehyo Holdings.
They’re sister brands under the same parent company.
However, each operates with a distinct concept, creating very different shopping experiences.
Nationwide Presence
Komehyo
- Approximately 40 stores nationwide (retail stores, as of September 2025)
- Large flagship stores in major tourist cities
Brand Off
Photo: https://kaitori.brandoff.co.jp/
- Approximately 50 stores nationwide (as of September 2025)
- Small to medium-sized stores near train stations
5 Key Differences Tourists Need to Know
1. Accessibility
Komehyo’s Strengths
- Ginza flagship store: 1-minute walk from Ginza Station
- Harajuku store: 5-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station
- Shinjuku store: Direct connection to Shinjuku-sanchome Station
With large stores in popular tourist destinations, you can combine sightseeing with shopping seamlessly.
Brand Off’s Strengths
- Primarily located near train stations
- Convenient smaller locations
- Easy to drop by during your tourist route
2. Store Atmosphere
Komehyo
Luxurious interior design resembling a department store’s brand corner. Products are displayed in spacious layouts, perfect for leisurely browsing and careful selection.
Brand Off
Casual and welcoming atmosphere that’s easy for first-time visitors to enter. The approachable vibe encourages a “let’s just take a look” mentality.
3. Product Lineup
Komehyo
- Incredible variety: Beyond bags and watches, they carry kimono, cameras, and musical instruments
- Treasure hunting experience: Multi-floor expansive spaces where you might discover unexpected gems
- Rich selection of rare items and vintage pieces
Brand Off
- Luxury brand specialist: Focused on Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci
- Specialist-level inventory: For example, their Osaka Umeda store displays over 300 Hermès and Chanel items alone
- Efficient shopping for specific target brands
4. Services for International Tourists
Language Support
- Komehyo: English and Chinese-speaking staff at major locations
- Brand Off: Multilingual support varies by location but expanding
Tax-Free Services
Both companies offer tax-free shopping, but it’s recommended to confirm the procedures in advance.
Payment Methods
- International credit cards: Both companies accept them
- QR code payments: PayPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay available at expanding locations
Online-to-Offline (OMO) Service
This is a game-changing service for tourists! You can request items you’ve seen online to be brought to physical stores, allowing you to inspect them in person before purchasing.
For expensive pre-owned items, this eliminates the biggest concern – product condition – giving you peace of mind when shopping.
5. Pricing Philosophy
Komehyo’s “Gentle Pricing” Philosophy
Komehyo has maintained a unique pricing philosophy since its founding: “Buy high to attract goods, sell low to attract people.”
This is the opposite of the typical secondhand store approach of “buy low, sell high,” prioritizing fair and affordable prices for customers.
Brand Off’s Transparent Pricing
Pricing based on their auction “JBA” transactions, offering transparent market-value-driven prices.
Particularly for high-end items like Hermès Birkin bags, prices reflect real-time global market values.
Trusted Quality Assurance
World-Class Authentication
99% Accuracy AI Authentication System
Both companies utilize an AI authentication system developed using 10 years of expert appraiser experience and data. The fusion of human expertise and technology identifies fakes with 99% accuracy.
Full Refund Guarantee
If any purchased item turns out to be counterfeit, both companies offer full refund and return guarantees. With this level of assurance, you can confidently purchase high-value items.
Japan’s “Expert Eye” Culture
Japan’s resale culture is built on habits of careful product care and strict quality control by skilled craftsmen. This cultural foundation is why Japanese resale shops earn trust worldwide.
Which Type Are You?
Choose Komehyo If You:
✅ Want to create the best memories of your Japan trip
Looking for that special piece that will become a lifelong memory
✅ Shopping for someone special
Seeking a unique gift for family, partner, or dear friends
✅ Want to experience authentic Japanese quality
Desire to experience Japan’s meticulous product care and customer service
✅ Value quality above all
Willing to pay more for better condition items
✅ Prefer leisurely shopping
Have time to carefully browse and compare products
✅ Enjoy brand history
Interested in the background stories of vintage and rare items
Choose Brand Off If You:
✅ Want to casually enjoy luxury brands
First-time luxury purchase or looking for everyday-use items
✅ Value cost performance
Want to get the best deals within your budget
✅ Looking for multiple items
Planning to buy several pieces like bags, wallets, and accessories
✅ Shopping during travel breaks
Need to complete shopping quickly between sightseeing
Common Money-Saving Tips
Tax-Free Procedures – Don’t Forget!
- Passport required
- Minimum purchase of 5,000 yen (tax-excluded) per store
- Apply for tax-free at time of purchase
Target Sale Periods
- New Year period
- Before Golden Week
- Summer bonus season
Smart Shopping: Visit Both!
If you have time, we recommend visiting both stores.
Efficient Shopping Route
- Start at Brand Off to get a sense of market prices
- Check Komehyo for potentially better quality items
- Compare and make your final decision
When the same item is available at both stores, you can compare condition and price to make the best choice.
Money-Saving Tips
Komehyo Deals
Tourist Coupons
Special coupons for international visitors are available. Check their official website and social media for the latest information.
Brand Off Deals
Tourist Coupons
They also offer coupons for international visitors. Check at stores for current promotions.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Komehyo if unsure
- First-time luxury shopping in Japan
- Want a special shopping experience
- Quality-focused
Choose Brand Off for casual enjoyment
- Multiple visits to Japan
- Value-conscious
- Prefer casual shopping experiences
Either choice will give you access to Japan’s exceptional quality pre-owned luxury goods.
Choose based on your travel style and preferences, and enjoy your wonderful shopping experience!
