Translation guide
In Japanese, describing an 'old shop' depends on whether you mean a shop that has existed for a long time (established, longstanding) or a shop that looks old (aged, worn). The most common and natural ways to express these ideas are covered here.
To refer to a shop that has been in business for many years, often with a sense of tradition or reliability.
Refers to a shop with a long history and established reputation. Often implies trustworthiness and tradition. Can be used for restaurants, craft shops, etc.
To describe a shop that appears old, perhaps with an aged facade or interior, without necessarily implying a long history.
The most direct translation. Can mean either 'old (long-established)' or 'old (aged)', but context usually clarifies. When appearance is the focus, this is natural.
駅前に古い店がまだ残っている。
There are still some old shops left in front of the station.
老舗 (shinise) specifically means a long-established, reputable shop. 古い店 (furui mise) simply means an old shop, which could be either long-standing or just aged in appearance. If you want to praise a shop's history, use 老舗. If you're just describing its age, 古い店 is fine.
That shop is a long-established store dating back to the Edo period.
A more casual way to say 'a shop that has been around for a long time'. Less formal than 老舗.
この通りには昔からある店が多い。
There are many shops on this street that have been here for a long time.
Literally 'a shop with history'. Emphasizes the historical aspect.
歴史のある店で買い物をするのが好きです。
I like shopping at stores with history.
Implies a shop that shows signs of age and use, often in a positive, character-filled way. Can be used for both appearance and long establishment.
年季の入った店構えがいい味を出している。
The aged storefront has a lot of character.
Specifically means 'old-looking' or 'worn', often with a slightly negative nuance of being shabby. Use with care.
古びた店が立ち並ぶ商店街。
A shopping street lined with old, worn-looking shops.