Yes, there are shopping malls here in Phnom Penh but I don’t really like shopping there for clothes. Mostly because they just sell stuff that can be easily found in Bangkok but at super high prices at times their markups are more than 300%! I only like going to these malls for coffee, to stroll around to get away from the heat, or to shop at the supermarkets. When it comes to clothes shopping I prefer going to Russian Market (Phsar Tuol Tompong) for casual stuff, shops along St. 240 for classy dresses, and lately we’ve been discovering lots of places to shop for vintage, second-hand items at super low prices.

I’ve been hearing long-term Phnom Penh expats rave about Japan Thrift Shop but I kept putting off going there because its a little far from our house. Anyway, a few weeks ago, Ouwie decided she wanted to have more blouses to add to her ‘work wardrobe’ but she doesn’t want to spend a lot. I suddenly remembered Japan Thrift, so I forego my morning blogging duties and doing research about nutrisystem to explore Japan Thrift Shop.

It’s located along St. 47, a street in the middle of Monivong Blvd. and Sisowath Quay, almost to the Old Olympic circle. I find it much easier to go from Wat Phnom, turn right to St. 47. The shop is located a few meters down Total Gas Station. It’s facade is a little indistinct so it might be easy to miss..

You can see some toys and shoes in racks outside the building but its the inside you might be wanting to see. I like the way items are organized here, makes sorting a teeny bit easier. Note that it is not air-conditioned, but the high ceilings and some fans help ease the heat, but do prepare bottled water in case you get so hooked at sorting those piles of goodies. Another perk is their fitting rooms so you can try on your finds before buying it!

Lovely, lovely skirts! All less than a $1.

Cool looking leather jacket, only $1.75! Too bad it couldn’t fit me haha!

So how was our shopping expedition? We brought home 2 skirts, 8 really nice blouses, 1 black knitted turtleneck dress for only $4.25 plus we got an additional bonus – a really cute and cuddly raccoon stuffed toy, which the seller gave us for only 1,000 Riels!

Other stuff you can find there..

Stuff toys..

for bag-o-holics!

for shoe-lovers..

belts and ties..

It’s definitely worthwhile to sort through those piles. Lots of unique items you can get for a really low price. This place really will go to my regular bargain haunts in Phnom Penh.

Wanna go there? Check out the map..
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