Discover Your Next Literary Treasure at the Winter Hanshin Used Book Fair
Unearth hidden gems and celebrate the joy of reading at the annual Winter Hanshin Used Book Fair, returning to Osaka this winter!
From December 25th to January 7th, bookworms can explore a vast collection of pre-loved books spanning diverse genres, from literature and art to subculture and lifestyle. With a wide array of vendors from across Japan, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest.
This year’s highlight? The special New Year’s Gift Sale! Starting January 3rd, discover a treasure trove of books for just ¥300 each (including tax). This is the perfect opportunity to find your yomizome – your first read of 2025 – without breaking the bank.
Participating Bookstores: A Literary Journey Across Japan
Explore the offerings from these fantastic used bookstores:
Osaka:
- Used Books Yuraku
- Shiaru
- Shiori Bookstore
- Sunsindo Bookstore
- Daikichido
- Yano Bookstore
- Yano Bookstore Temmabashi Branch
Kyoto:
- Akibin Books
- Used Books Dandelion
- Mayaruka Used Bookstore
Hyogo:
- honeycombBOOKS*
- World’s End Garden
Mie:
- Used Bookstore Poran
Ishikawa:
- Oyoyo Bookstore
Toyama:
- Used Bookstore Saito
- Used Bookstore Irufu
Event Details:
- Dates: December 25th, 2024 (Wed) – January 7th, 2025 (Tue)
- Time:
- 10:00 – 20:00 (General)
- Until 16:00 on December 31st (Tue)
- Closed on January 1st (Wed/Holiday) and January 2nd (Thu)
- 9:30 – 19:00 on January 3rd (Fri)
- Until 17:00 on January 7th (Tue)
- Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store 8th Floor, Hall Culture 3, 4, & 5 (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
- Admission: Free
- Contact: 06-6345-1201 (General Inquiries)
- Website: https://web.hh-online.jp/hanshin/contents/hsst/hsst05……
Please note: During peak hours, there may be a waiting time and numbered tickets may be distributed.
🛏️ Find accommodation near the event
What is Yomizome?
Yomizome is a Japanese tradition that encourages starting the new year by exploring fresh literary options. The term combines "yomi," meaning read, and "zome," meaning beginning. It involves selecting new books or genres to set the tone for your year’s reading.
At the Osaka Winter Hanshin Used Book Fair, Yomizome becomes a central theme. Visitors can explore a wide range of second-hand books, from classics to rare finds that might pique their interest. It offers readers the chance to discover new interests and establish new reading habits. By participating, attendees not only select their next read but also enjoy the prospect of beginning anew, making reading a meaningful part of their year.
