David’s recently returned from a buying expedition in Japan, soaking up the serene countryside and the dazzling lights of Tokyo. With Air NZ flights now buzzing with eager Kiwis, it’s clear Japan is calling.
 
This trip took David beyond Tokyo’s cityscape, deep into the prefectures in a mighty Kei car—those compact yet surprisingly roomy 660cc turbo-powered marvels. If you haven’t hired one before, we highly recommend it. Zipping through backcountry roads in models like the Nissan Dayz, Roox, or Suzuki Hustler is a joy. Just don’t forget your International Driver’s License—Japan insists on it.
 
As we’ve shared before, wandering is a joy—and Japan is the perfect place for it. With fewer tourists around (ironically refreshing), this journey was as much about exploring as it was about crate digging. Around every corner: a 14th-century temple, a garage of vintage JDM cars, an artisan coffee shop, a traditional sake brewery, or a store selling one beautifully handmade item. It’s the kind of magic that makes travel unforgettable.

Of course, crate digging remains one of the great collector’s pleasures. David’s picked up some fresh treats for you—but as a collector himself, the line between personal stash and shop stock gets blurry. We’ll do our best to keep the “me pile” separate!
 
Food was, as always, a highlight. From regional specialties and nihonshu (sake) to bowls of ramen, tempura, and unagi, every meal was a delight. Lunches were often quick bites from Lawsons or Family Mart—onigiri with salmon is a favourite. Just remember: it’s steamed rice, not vinegared like sushi. And with temperatures soaring past 30°C, hydration was key.

Returning to Tokyo always feels like coming home. It’s a vast city that takes a lifetime to truly know, but familiarity grows quickly—whether it’s a favourite local restaurant or mastering the train lines.
 
Now, a word of caution: vinyl is heavy. Really heavy. Especially when you’re lugging 25 pieces through airports. Excess baggage fees are no joke—consider an extra suitcase if you’re planning your own dig.
 
Pricing in Japan has shifted. While the NZ dollar is strong against the Yen (great for meals and taxis), vinyl prices have climbed. Bargains are rare, and if an album has an obi strip, expect to pay 25% more. Even wholesalers are feeling the pinch. Do your research—Tokyo has some excellent record store guides online, and many shops specialise by genre.

Hi-Fi gear? Tempting, but tricky. Japan’s domestic electronics run on 110 volts, with regional differences in frequency. Step-up transformers can help, but they may introduce hum—and shipping to NZ is rarely viable.
 
For the curious, stores like Hard Off (yes, really) offer a treasure trove of recycled electronics: MiniDiscs, cameras, guitars, tape decks, and more. Their reuse system is impressive, and there are plenty of outlets across Tokyo.

In short: Japan is a collector’s paradise. Bewildering, beautiful, and bursting with surprises. A few handy Japanese phrases go a long way, though English is widely spoken in Tokyo (less so in rural areas).
 
Thinking of heading over? Drop us a line—we’re always happy to share tips.

All the best,

Otis and David