Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common way to say 'antique store' is 骨董品店 (kottōhinten) or アンティークショップ (antīku shoppu). The choice depends on the nuance: 骨董品店 implies traditional, high-end antiques, while アンティークショップ is a loanword often used for Western-style or vintage items. There are also more specific terms for used goods or secondhand shops that may overlap in English but are distinct in Japanese.
antique store (traditional)
antique shop (Western/vintage)
A shop specializing in old, valuable, or collectible items, often with historical or artistic value.
The standard term for a store selling traditional antiques like ceramics, scrolls, furniture, etc. Often implies high quality and authenticity.
That antique store has tea bowls from the Edo period.
Loanword from English, often used for shops selling Western antiques, vintage items, or retro goods. Can feel more casual or trendy.
I bought an old clock at an antique shop over the weekend.
A more colloquial term for an antique dealer or shop. Can refer to the shop itself or the person running it.
A shop selling pre-owned items, not necessarily old or valuable. English speakers might call some of these 'antique stores' loosely, but in Japanese they are distinct.
A shop selling used goods, often at lower prices. Not specifically antiques; more like a thrift store or secondhand shop. May carry some vintage items.
I sold my furniture to a secondhand store before moving.
A legal term for a licensed secondhand goods dealer. Not used in everyday conversation; more for official contexts.
A temporary market or event where antiques and collectibles are sold, often outdoors.
骨董品店 (kottōhinten) suggests a traditional Japanese antique store with items like ceramics, calligraphy, and old furniture. アンティークショップ (antīku shoppu) is a loanword and often implies Western-style antiques or a more casual, trendy atmosphere. If you're unsure, 骨董品店 is a safe, general choice.
I found an old hanging scroll at an antique store in Kyoto.
I bought European furniture at an antique shop in Jiyugaoka.
中古品店 (chuukohinten) means 'used goods store' and is not the same as an antique store. It sells secondhand items that may not be old or valuable. Use 骨董品店 or アンティークショップ for antiques.
I bought a cheap TV at a used goods store.
祖父は骨董屋を営んでいた。
My grandfather ran an antique store.
This store has a secondhand dealer license.
Vendors from all over the country gather at the Tokyo Antique Fair.