From affordable secondhand clothes to vintage items, thrifting culture has become an exciting part of Yogyakarta’s fashion and lifestyle scene. Locally known as “awul-awul”, the practice remains popular today, with shopping options extending beyond traditional markets.
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It now spans modern thrift hubs and curated independent shops, where shoppers can discover unique styles at relatively affordable prices. Let’s find out more about thrift store in Jogja below.
The Traditional “Awul-Awul” Markets
In Yogyakarta, awul-awul refers to the practice of rummaging through piles of secondhand clothing and items to find something worth buying. This hands-on shopping experience has become part of traditional thrifting’s main appeal, where prices and clothing conditions can vary from one seller to another.
Markets like Beringharjo, Klithikan Pakuncen, and Senthir are among Yogyakarta’s most popular thrifting hubs.
Pasar Beringharjo
Just south of Malioboro, you’ll find Pasar Beringharjo, one of Yogyakarta’s most iconic traditional markets. While visitors may know it for batik, local food, and traditional souvenirs, parts of its upper floors feature secondhand clothing. The experience stays true to the awul-awul tradition, with shoppers rummaging through clothing piles and bargaining with sellers for affordable finds.
Pasar Klithikan Pakuncen & Pasar Senthir
If your hunt for a thrift store in Jogja extends beyond clothing, go to Pasar Klithikan Pakuncen and Pasar Senthir. These markets are known for secondhand and miscellaneous goods, offering opportunities to discover unusual items alongside everyday finds.
You can find used vehicle parts, electronics, and other pre-owned goods in Klithikan Pakuncen, while Senthir lets you browse amid a lively evening market atmosphere.
The Modern Thrift Hubs
XT Square (The Thrift Giant)
Located on Jalan Veteran, Umbulharjo, XT Square is widely considered Yogyakarta’s most convenient and organized thrifting hub. It features numerous kiosks selling clothing across different categories, making browsing easier and more organized.
You can find everything from outdoor jackets and vintage tees to crewnecks, often neatly sorted and displayed on hangers. Prices can be higher than at traditional markets, but comparing different stalls can help you find something that fits your budget.
Curated Thrift Stores in Jogja
For some shoppers, the fun of thrifting lies less in the awul-awul experience and more in finding distinctive pieces without sorting through piles of clothing. Curated thrift stores then make a great alternative, with selections organised by style, condition, or brand.
Stores such as Lestari Colombo and Sederek Store Jokteng are worth exploring if you’re looking for a more shop-style experience. They typically offer pre-washed clothing and a more selective range of secondhand fashion, including Y2K styles, Japanese brands, or streetwear.
Jogja Thrifting Events and Pop-Up Markets
Beyond permanent shops, Yogyakarta also hosts temporary thrift events and pop-up markets. These time-limited events offer another way to discover secondhand fashion, from footwear, tops, and trousers to accessories. Events such as Thrift Fest and Jogja Thrift Market may bring together multiple sellers in one venue, sometimes alongside music performances and food stalls.
Rather than simply shopping, thrift stores in Jogja offer a fun, treasure-hunt experience in the heart of the city. Whether you’re rummaging through clothing piles at Pasar Beringharjo or exploring the curated collections at XT Square and Lestari, each destination offers a distinctive way to discover secondhand fashion and experience Jogja’s local shopping culture.
After exploring Beringharjo, continue your shopping trip to Malioboro Street for more of the city’s shopping flairs.