Stamp Collecting in Japan: Where to Find Free and Unique Stamps

One of the best low-cost and unique activities to do in Japan is stamp collecting! In fact, many tourist destinations and transportation hubs offer them, making it easy to participate. Here’s the rundown of what it takes to get stamps in Japan. 

What does stamp collecting mean? 

Some people think of stamp collecting as gathering vintage, limited-edition, or international postage stamps. In this context, though, stamp collecting refers to location-based rubber stamps that are used to imprint a design. You can collect the designs in a journal, on postcards, in a stamp book, etc.! Stamps are a fun way to memorialize the places you’ve visited. 

In Japan, stamp collecting is a popular hobby, with many locations offering free stamps or access to their stamps after purchasing an item. They are not always easy to spot, so make sure to take your time and look around. Many places have a designated spot for stamps, which are called stamp stations. Similar to a treasure hunt, accumulating stamps creates a sense of accomplishment and a memorable experience for travelers.

How to get started

What you need for stamp collecting simply depends on the person. The only essential item required is some form of paper. Many people use a small notebook because it’s convenient to carry, and you never know when you might stumble across a stamp station. If you decide to buy a notebook, make sure the sheets are not too thin so the ink will not bleed through. 

Almost every place in Japan that offers stamps has ink pads. However, they are not 100% guaranteed, and popular places are more likely to have their ink pads dry out. To ensure you get a clear and defined print, bring your own ink pad. 

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Stamp rallies 

Just like the name suggests, a stamp rally consists of going to various spots to collect themed stamps. It is usually offered for a limited time and involves visiting multiple destinations. These are great for those who want to feel like they are getting an exclusive experience.

Since stamp rallies are offered for a short period, one way to learn about them is through advertisements in train stations. The main problem with that is that the advertisements will usually be in Japanese. So, be on the lookout for the words スタンプラリー (stamp rally) or 巡り (tour).

Another way to learn about stamp rallies is on social media or the internet. Searching up スタンプラリー or “stamp rally __ (place you’re visiting)” will yield a lot of useful information, but make sure to check the dates they were posted! Also, the locations that offer stamps will typically have a schedule in relation to their store/attraction’s hours. Checking in advance before you head to that place can save you some trouble. 

Train Stamps 

By far, the most popular and free stamps to collect in Japan are eki stamps. In Japanese, “eki” means train station. Public transportation by train/railway is one of the most common ways to travel in the country. Additionally, eki stamps are located inside the train stations, making them easily accessible after disembarking. If you are already traveling by train, why not take advantage of what the stations have to offer? 

You can find eki stamps typically near the train station’s main ticket gate or at the ticket counter. However, some stations are enormous, making it challenging to locate the stamps immediately. In this case, asking the train staff if there is a stamp will save you time. You can say, “Eki sutanpu wa arimasuka?” which means “Is there a station stamp?”

Collecting eki stamps encourages people to explore and document their travels. Each one is unique and reflects the local area’s character, often featuring landmark designs or mascots! When you collect eki stamps, you turn an ordinary train ride into an adventure!

Airport stamps in Tokyo

Flying into or leaving Tokyo from Haneda or Narita Airport? You’re in luck, because both airports have a variety of stamps to collect! Here are some of the locations below.

The Information Centers at Terminal 1, 2, and 3 in Haneda Airport each offer memorial stamps. Leaving the airport to take the Keikyu Line 2, bound for City Center and Yokohama? Stamps are available once you pass through the ticket gate. 

If you are arriving at Narita Airport from the JR Narita Airport Station, go to the ticket counter for the eki stamp! You will have to ask the train staff to use it, as they keep it behind the counter. The Narita Airport Tourism Information Center is located on the first floor of Terminal 1, before security. There, you will need to ask a staff member for the stamp as well. Also in Terminal 1, but on the fourth floor, is the Traveler’s Factory Store, which offers stamps that can be used after a purchase.

If you are not traveling to Tokyo, don’t fret! Airports across Japan offer numerous stamps to collect! Museums, castles, and tourist information centers are just a few other places that can offer stamps, too. 

Why collect stamps

Stamp collecting in Japan is a memorable and meaningful way to explore places. With each stamp telling its own story, looking back at all the ones you have collected creates a capstone of memories. These souvenirs are easy to bring back since they don’t take up much space either. Taking the time to look for stamps can let you slow down and live in the moment. Have you collected stamps before? Let us know in the comments below!