Nanyodo Books — Local services in Tokyo

Beautiful bookstore on all things architecture. Smartphones and photos NOT allowed inside (with signs saying you’ll be kicked out if you do) which may be why the staff seem vigilantly tense and a bit standoffish. But I guess in the age of e-commerce they have certain bottom lines that they need to protect?

If you’re used to a TSUTAYA approach of get in and browse, Google where we must with no stress, it’ll be good to know this is not where our 21st century bookstore manners and instincts will be allowed. BUT you are allowed to browse the books themselves, and their curated selection is excellent, so if you’re ok with “no phones, no photos, no interaction”, you’re likely to discover some really amazing finds inside (esp. like me, if you don’t specialise in architecture. It’s impressive to see such an expansive collection of literature all connected to one particular and amazing...

This little out-of-the-way 2-level bookshop is one of the few architecture speciality bookstores in Tokyo (the only other one that springs to mind is the Toto Bookshop at Gallery Ma in Nogizaka). Having said that, I visited on a weekday morning. There were only a few other people browsing so it was hardly busy but the person manning the shop that day gave me a very rude attitude when I asked how the books were arranged because the entire bookstore does not have any signs or labels on the shelves to help point you in the right direction. I was so annoyed that I decided not to buy the books that I had specifically been looking for and were in fact on the shelves! Really expected better than this. I left feeling angry and very...

Nanyodo is Tokyo's premiere architecture and urbanism bookstore, bar none. They have an incredible back catalogue stretching back to even very old and rare works, including a special 3rd floor that's only open at certain times. If you don't read Japanese, it may be more interesting as a visual browsing exercise since their English language selection is limited, but a lot of newer Japanese published books on these topics actually contain some English translation when you look inside, so if it seems up your alley don't be dissuaded. This place is an absolute must for anyone with a serious research interest in...