If you happen to be bit of a pack-rat, are looking for a unique souvenir from Japan, or just enjoy "window" shopping, then a visit to a Japanese flea market is an experience not to be missed.
Flea markets of one form or another have been held in Japan for hundreds of years now, very often held in the grounds of temples or shrines. Toji Temple in Kyoto, for example, has been hosting such markets since before the Edo Period, a history of over 400 years.
Traditional temple flea markets were more like fairs, with food vendors, craftsmen selling household goods like baskets, pots, chopsticks and toys, and, of course, the ubiquitous snake oil salesmen. Used goods were there -- mostly clothing, but also scrolls, books and ornaments for collectors of the day.