The best thrift and vintage stores in Johor Bahru worth crossing the border for

If you’ve ever crossed the border into Johor Bahru and wondered whether it’s worth digging through racks of secondhand clothes, the answer is: absolutely yes. JB’s thrift scene has grown into something surprisingly charming—whether you’re after a $2 graphic tee, a vintage denim jacket, or a curated Y2K piece that looks like it came straight off a Pinterest board. And while you’ll still need a little patience to sift through heaps of clothing, there’s plenty to love if you’re hunting for something more affordable and unique. In this roundup, we’ve gathered some of the top thrift stores that are worth making the trip to Johor Bahru.

Kedai Dhoby Shanghai 

A quick scroll through TikTok and you’ll spot plenty of people raving about this spot. Kedai Dhoby Shanghai has built a name for itself with its solid selection of workwear and streetwear—think Carhartt, Dickies, and the occasional vintage pieces you didn’t know you needed.

53, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

RedChilli Vintage 

If you’re after something a little more Y2K, swing by RedChilli Vintage. From throwback graphic tees and logo-emblazoned hoodies to distressed denim, RedChilli Vintage offers a carefully handpicked selection of pieces that capture the essence of the Y2K era.

15C, Jalan Dhoby, Off, Jalan Pahang, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Bside Room 

Prefer something more androgynous—or just looking for a spot you and your partner can both shop at? Check out Bside Room. The store’s stocked with roomy silhouettes and oversized pieces from brands like Nike, Dickies, and Harley Davidson. Bonus: it’s pretty spacious, so give yourself time to browse—you’ll want to dig.

66a, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Amatiran 

Amatiran is the kind of place you swing by for comfy weekend fits—and end up staying longer than planned. From graphic tees to vintage womenswear, the racks are full of unique pieces just waiting to be uncovered. Don’t miss the cute outdoor seating area (perfect for a quick OOTD snap), and say hi to Paris, the store’s resident cat, who might just be the real star of the show.

Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Fara First 

Fara First, a thrift store celebrated for its exceptional selection of casual and classic wear, is conveniently situated just a stone’s throw away from Kedai Dhoby Shanghai. The store offers a treasure trove of clothing, from stylish jackets to graphic tees, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

52, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Label33Store

This thrift store might be a little out of the way compared to the others, but trust us—it’s worth the trip. It’s a goldmine for Y2K lovers and anyone who lives in cropped shirts, dungarees, cargo pants, and other off-duty staples. Expect racks filled with casual, wearable pieces from brands like Carhartt, Stussy, and more.

Bangunan Kerjasama, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Bandoru

Still on the hunt for a winter jacket before your next trip? Bandoru might just be your answer. With racks full of stylish outerwear and casualwear, this spot has major Japanese thrift store vibes—from the layout to the curated pieces. Whether you’re after a puffer, a parka, or something a little more street, you’re bound to find something that’ll keep you warm and looking good.

Lot L2, Plaza Angsana, 29a Level, 42, Skudai Hwy, Bandar Baru Uda, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia