Used m43 gear in Japan?

[gnik]

Heading to Japan for three weeks in April. The trip is centred around the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage hike, but we also have a few days in Tokyo (Shinjuku) & Kyoto (Downtown) and a day in Osaka (Dotonbori).

Is it worth looking out for used m43 gear over there? Any recommended shops? I checked out the Map Camera web site and their selection looks great, but prices weren't tempting.

 

[tkbslc]

I didn't find pricing to be that much better than the USA overall, but the selection was amazing. Even if you don't go to buy, I would go just to browse. I've never seen camera shops before that have literally everything they make on display. Bic camera and map camera were the two best ones I visited in Shinjuku.

One thing to consider is that you can get usually get a sales tax rebate if you are on a tourist visa. So the prices may be a little cheaper after that.

 

[keith1200rs]

Remember to have your passport with you when you buy if you want to claim the tax rebate, and show the forms at the airport when you leave.

 

[Naptown Gaijin]

Yodobashi camera store is a 4 minute walk from east entrance to Sbinkuku station. Go there!!

 

[ibd]

Map camera has amazing choice, take great care of their used products, and you get a great price IMHO. Did you subtract the tax when checking prices? Their used prices are unbeatable compared to where I live.

They will give you 1 week's time to return your stuff if anything is not to your liking, ideal time frame if you're traveling.
The staff speaks very little English, but they make it up with friendliness and politeness (as in many places in Japan!).

Their website is very up to date, so you can already shop before going there.

I got a 15mm 1.7 from them, and could not recommend map camera more. Will definitely go there again when I am in Tokyo!

 

[tkbslc]

= Sbinkuku station. Go there!!

I think you mean Shinjuku?

 

[Lcrunyon]

Yodobashi is photographer heaven.
I found (new) prices to be a bit cheaper than in the States (especially after duty free), and for some specialty items, a lot cheaper.

 

[Naptown Gaijin]

Yodobashi camera store is a 4 minute walk from east entrance to Sbinkuku station. Go there!!

I MEANT TO SAY SHINJUKU station. Damn typos!!

 

[Naptown Gaijin]

I think you mean Shinjuku?

yes. Shinjuku station.

 

[Naptown Gaijin]

good suggestion, will try it

I meant to say SHINJUKU station. Sorry, typo.