‘Biology of Metal: Metal Craftsmanship in Tsubame-Sanjo’ Event to Take Place at Japan House London
05.September.2018 | SPOT
The Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival will take place from October 4 to 7 this year. The festival first began in 2013 and this will be its sixth run. It is an event inviting the public into the factories of the Tsubame-Sanjo area of Japan to experience the art of product making.
Japan House London is teaming up with the festival at this year’s London Design Festival taking place in England’s capital in September 2018. That collaborative project is titled “BIOLOGY OF METAL: METAL CRAFTSMANSHIP IN TSUBAME-SANJO” and it will run at Japan House London from September 6 to October 28.
©Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival Committee
This is the first showcasing of its kind in the UK of Japan’s most prestigious artisans of product making expertise.
©Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival Committee
Guests will have the opportunity through insight to discover how this craftsmanship, art and small industry is embedded in history.
©Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival Committee
It will also show how it has incorporated and advanced new technologies in order to adapt to a changing society.
There will be workshops at the event as well as products for sale in ‘The Shop’ in Japan House London. If you’re in the UK then this is a fantastic opportunity to be up close and learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
■Information
BIOLOGY OF METAL: METAL CRAFTSMANSHIP IN TSUBAME-SANJO
Running: September 6, 2018 – October 28, 2018
Time: 10:00am-8:00pm (12:00pm-6:00pm on Sundays)
Price: Free
Location: Japan House London (101-111 Kensington High St, Kensington, London W8 5SA)
Access: 1-minute on foot from High Street Kensington Station
Japan House London Website: https://www.japanhouse.jp
Tsubame-Sanjo Factory
Full details for the Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival can be found below. It will be held from October 4 to 7 in Tsubame, Niigata Prefecture
http://how-pr.co.jp/pressrelease/tsubamesanjo_oct2018.pdf (Japanese)
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Results of Second Japanese Cultural Grand Prix Announced
12.September.2022 | FASHION
The five winners of the second Japanese Traditional Culture Grand Prix have been announced! The contest was spearheaded by the Japan Traditional Culture Promotion Project, established in May 2020 as a collaborative effort among companies, associations, and local governments to establish a sustainable framework for the continued development of Japanese traditional culture.
The project is headed by Seiichi Kondou, the Former Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs. United Arrows Honorary Chairman Osamu Shigematsu serves as Vice-Chairman. Along with Nobuo Yoshida, the 14th generation head of the 400-year-old traditional paper fan store Ibasen, the Japan Cultural Promotion Project began this Grand Prix as a way to honor outstanding works of Japanese culture by companies, organizations, and individuals. Anyone can enter, regardless of nationality, residence, or age. The jury consists of 11 people from various fields, including Richard Collasse, the Chairman of Chanel LLC, and popular model Kozue Akimoto.
Grand Prix Winner
Dustpan x Broom
Luo Qi
Each dustpan is shaped by hand to match the special shape of the Matsumoto broom, which is then dyed with natural Tokushima indigo dye. The broom is the only one in the world made from home-grown broomcorn, and each is made by a third-generation craftsman with years of experience.
Runner-up Prizes
Japanese Lacquer Art – Ether
Takehito Sasaki
[Critique]
Both traditional and innovative. The spirit of Japanese culture and the meaning of this award seem to have taken shape in this work. The zippers do not open. The surface looks like leather, but it isn’t. When the lid is opened, the glossy lacquer seems to spread out. My expectations were surpassed. Anyone who sees it or uses it will find themselves lost in imagination, and I’m sure that thinking about that will bring a smile to the creator’s face. This beautiful craftsmanship was born from plenty of care and attention. What a pleasant surprise. (Risa Tanaka)
Sake Drinking Set – Japanese nagomi Sake Cups
Nagomi Fujita
[Critique]
There’s something about this piece that shares a spirit with Art Nouveau. The delicate plants superimposed on the bright transparent glass are a powerful image. In traditional Japanese nagomi art, the linear appearance of the plants is painted a bit more lightly, but these overlapping layers and shapes resonate and make an impact. The artist used traditional techniques such as lacquer and foil in a subtle manner, while still making the plants look alive. I’d consider this as a modern take on ecology. (Yuko Hasegawa)
Excellence Award
Floating Boat Counter
Masafumi Kodama (Registered Architect with a First-Class License) / Taiki Ishikawa (First Class Carpenter/Registered Architect with a Second-Class License)
[Critique]
The motif that inspired this piece is the traditional Japanese architectural technique of funahijiki. It’s an outstanding piece that utilizes practical architectural practices to create a piece of furniture at the center of a home, somewhere that the family relaxes. It brings the beauty of Japanese wood into the modern age. Funahijiki is a technique that has been used in incredible places, such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kojoin Temple. It’s graceful and elegant, and not often seen in the current age. (Hidetsugu Horikoshi)
Folding Chair to Assist in Seiza
patol stool SEIZAHirayama Daily Goods Shop, Makiko & Kazuhiko Hirayama
[Critique]
The judges liked this folding chair for assisting seiza sitting, as it’s something that could be put to practical use right away. It’s sure to help people enjoy tatami culture, and will be a big help for people who seldom sit on the floor in this traditional way. The height and size of the chair, as well as its ability to be folded for easy storage, are nice touches. I’d consider this a masterpiece with incredible potential. (Yuji Akimoto)
These pieces of artwork managed to connect traditional Japanese culture with future sensibilities, so give them a look!
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Naruto Anime Series Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Traditional Kokeshi Dolls
08.August.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Naruto anime series, Usaburo Kokeshi has created two traditional dolls modeled after Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha. The original manga series by Masashi Kishimoto has become a global phenomenon, and fans won’t want to miss out on these unique pieces! Preorders are now open.
Usaburo Kokeshi makes each of these pieces by hand, transforming them from children’s playthings into traditional works of art. The wood used to create these pieces is from trees in Gunma Prefecture.
Usaburo Kokeshi Doll – Naruto Uzumaki
Usaburo Kokeshi Doll – Sasuke Uchiha
These adorable dolls completely recreate both character’s outfits and hairstyles, and the designers clearly focused on the small details. Enjoy these palm-sized versions of your favorite Naruto characters!©岸本斉史 スコット/集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ
Information
Naruto Kokeshi Dolls from Usaburo Kokeshi
Details/Preorders: https://tfansite.jp/feature/naruto2207
Orders Open August 3, 2022 at 11:00
Release Date: Late October 2022
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Creative Social Media Site Behance Promotes Traditional Japanese Culture in New Project
29.June.2022 | FASHION
Behance, the world’s largest creative social media network, has started a new project to promote Japanese traditional culture and arts and crafts to the world. Works on Behance will be transformed into NFTs, with the goal to establish a new way for traditional craftsmen to profit from their work.
Japan’s traditional arts and crafts are well-known by many around the world. On the other hand, challenges still remain as many regions’ traditional manufacturing industries are digitized. Sharing more detailed information about these crafts with overseas markets has also been difficult.
According to the “Survey on the Revitalization of Local Traditional Manufacturing Industries” published by the Development Bank of Japan in 2018, Japan’s traditional arts and crafts industry peaked around 1980. Due to the recession caused by the burst of the bubble economy, the rise of inexpensive foreign products, and changes in lifestyle, the amount of production has been declining year by year. Compared with the peak period, current production has dropped to one-fifth or about 100 billion yen. The workers involved in traditional crafts are also aging, making it difficult to pass on their skills to younger creators.
On Behance, users can not only get inspiration from other people’s work but can also publish their own works and receive helpful feedback and comments. Marketing professionals also use Behance to find creators for campaigns and collaborations, and previously, a Japanese creator who had uploaded his work to the social media site was asked to illustrate the cover of the New York Times.
This project is designed to promote traditional Japanese arts and crafts in the hopes of supporting their continued development in the face of many difficult conditions.
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‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021’ Film Inspires Limited Edition Ukiyo-e Prints
05.April.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Fans of Doraemon and traditional Japanese artwork won’t want to miss this special collaboration! On March 30, preorders will open for ukiyo-e prints inspired by the film ‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021.’ These limited-edition pieces were created by Iwano Ichibei, a Living National Treasure.
The prints show Doraemon and friends along with the alien Papi and the special gadget the “Small Light.” The tool is giving off light depicted in a traditional Edo pattern believed to bring good luck, and the characters are shown inside its silhouette.
Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Production
Engraving by Craftsman
Printing by Craftsman
First, a sketch is made, and a monochrome version of the print is carved. After carving a number of woodblocks for each color and using them to rub the painting tirelessly to bring it to life, one single woodblock print is completed.
The extremely delicate and advanced techniques these craftsmen utilize have been passed down from the Edo period. Imagine having one of these beautiful pieces hanging in your home!
Information
‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021’ Commemorative Ukiyo-e Prints
Preorders Open: March 30, 2022
Price: ¥33,000 (Excluding Tax and Shipping Charges)Quantity: 300
Painter: Living National Treasure Iwano Ichibei
Online Shop: http://ukiyoework.com/ -
Results of First Japanese Traditional Culture Grand Prix Announced
09.September.2021 | FASHION / Uncategorized
With 130 entries submitted from all parts of Japan, the 8 winners of the first Japanese Traditional Culture Grand Prix have finally been announced. The contest was spearheaded by the Japan Traditional Culture Promotion Project, established in May 2020 as a collaborative effort among companies, associations, and local governments to establish a sustainable framework for the continued development of Japanese traditional culture.
Grand Prix Winner: Nakagawa Woodcrafts Hira Studio “Wave” series (left) “YORISIRO” series (right)
The winner of the top prize was Nakagawa Woodcrafts Hira Studio, in which the craftsmen still use a 700-year-old technique to create their famous wooden buckets. These buckets, once used for storing rice and miso, are still used today for a variety of different purposes, from bathing to cooling champagne! In stepping away from their typical works, the Nakagawa Woodcrafts studio created the more freeform “Wave” series, and the name surely fits–each bucket looks too free to have been manmade. The “YORISIRO” series, rather, keeps the natural curvature of the wood. Both are signature pieces of traditional Japanese artisanal culture.
Runner-up: Cubism in Calligraphy “Natural Stance,” Atelier Sisyu, Sisyu
Excellent Award: Kyo Braided Cords Sanjiku-Kumiori “Kujaku Kouki,” Saiko Ltd., Koichiro Murokado
Excellent Award: Structured System “Kumiko Endurance Wall,” Tosa Kumiko Co., Daisuke Iwamoto
Excellence Award: Porcelain “Yuragi” Hiroshi Taruta
Excellence Award: Lacquer Art “Tataeru” Shinsuke Aoki.
Excellent Student Award: Picture Frame “KOZAI” Ryohei Nomura.
Special Award: Rinku, a group of young female craftswomen from the Toukai region
The Japan Traditional Culture Promotion Project began this contest as a way to honor outstanding works from creators around Japan. The jury consists of 18 people from various fields, including Richard Collasse, the Chairman of Chanel LLC, and popular model Kozue Akimoto. A collection of online presentations and interviews with the winners is planned in future events, and the project aims to help these artists continue to work sustainably. The second round of applications will open in November 2021.
Information
Japanese Traditional Culture Grand Prix
Special Winners Site: https://byemotion.jp/collections/f00005
Official Site: https://jcpp.jp/
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renacnatta x Shiki Theatre Company to Release Banshu-Ori Weave Collection
21.July.2021 | FASHION
renacnatta has teamed up with Shiki Theatre Company to release a collection of banshu-ori skirts and neckties, all of which will arrive on August 3.
renacnatta is a brand which weaves clothes using deadstock fabric from Japan and Italy and by using traditional Japanese weaving techniques.
Skirts
Banshu Mermaid Wrap Skirt – Matinee|Collaboration with Shiki Theatre Company | ¥35,200 (Tax Included)
Banshu Mermaid Wrap Skirt – Soiree|Collaboration with Shiki Theatre Company | ¥35,200 (Tax Included)
Neckties
Banshu Tie – Matinee|Collaboration with Shiki Theatre Company | ¥9,350 (Tax Included)
Banshu Tie – Soiree|Collaboration with Shiki Theatre Company | ¥9,350 (Tax Included)
Shows at the Shiki Theatre Company have been cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19. The collaboration comes to reignite the fire and excitement towards the theatre in these restrictive times. This August, the theatre is release a new and original musical which will see actors wearing clothing made using banshu-ori weave. This collection uses the same weaving technique.
Banshuori is a yarn-dyed textile made using a special production method which sees yarn dyed in advance and patterns woven by the dyed yarn. The items in the collection come in two colours: Matinee and Soiree, named after afternoon and evening theatre performances respectively. The Matinee line-up is beige and yellow while the Soiree picks are a mix of navy and black.
The one-size-fits-all skirts feature a comfy mermaid style with a fashionable silhouette perfect for going to the theatre with. They are made in such a way that they do not wrinkle when sitting down for long periods of time. The neckties too are made using banshu-ori weave for a smooth, sleek look.
Information
renacnatta x Shiki Theatre Company
Release Date: August 3, 2021 @ 21:00 (JST)
Buy Here: https://www.renacnatta.com/ -
These Bangles Are Made From Edo Kiriko Cut Glass Bottles
06.July.2021 | FASHION
GLASS-LAB released their new GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA” collection of bangles made from Edo Kiriko cut glass bottles on their official website on July 1.
GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA” Sustainable Clear | ¥18,370 (Tax Included)
GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA” Sustainable Black | ¥18,370 (Tax Included)
GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA” Sustainable White | ¥18,370 (Tax Included)
GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA” Sustainable Green | ¥18,370 (Tax Included)
GLASS-LAB was opened by the Shiina family in 1950 in Koto, a city known for the production of Edo Kiriko, a traditional type of Japanese glassware. The owner eventually passed the factory onto his sons. It is now run by Takayuki Shiina who is highly skilled at sandblasting, so much so he can cut glass to a fine 0.09mm.
This new collection was made in collaboration with designer Yukio Fujita of ‘design shop YU.’
Information
GLASS-LAB NEW PRODUCT “WA”
Released: July 1, 2021
Buy Here: https://glasslab.official.ec/
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Shu Uemura Releases Sustainable ‘Mindfully Crafted in Japan’ Collection
09.June.2021 | FASHION
Japanese cosmetic brand Shu Uemura is set to release its new origami-inspired ‘mindfully crafted in japan’ collection on June 18, but presales opened on their online shop last Tuesday. The collection is a display of Japanese tradition and craftsmanship with sustainability at the core of its concept.
ultime8 ∞ sublime beauty cleansing oil (Limited Edition Design) | ¥12,650 (Tax Included)
hard formula hard 9 (seal brown 02) (Limited Edition Design) | ¥2,860 (Tax Included)
petal 55 foundation brush (Limited Edition Design) | ¥6,600 (Tax Included)
The collection focuses on three aspects of mindfulness with Japan as its focus: mindful of Japanese nature with locally and sustainably resourced ingredients, mindful of Japanese resources by taking only what is needed, and mindful of Japanese traditional craftsmanship by preserving traditions from the past.
Shu Uemura’s Cleansing Oil is one of the brand’s most notable sustainable products, preserving everything important about Japanese culture from its history to its natural environment. Using traditional methods passed down the ages, the product is made from plant-derived ingredients sourced sustainably, and the packaging is made from 100% recyclable plastic. The Cleansing Oil bottles were also added to Shu Uemura’s new recycling program which began on May 5 which enables bottles to be reused.Don’t miss out on this special new collection by Shu Uemura.
Information
mindfully crafted in japan collection
Release Date: June 18, 2021
Available: shu tokyo makeup box
Address: B-SIDE 5-11-2 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001
Pre-Sale: Online from June 1, 2021
Official Online Shop: https://www.shuuemura.jp
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Sonny Angel Doll Series Releases Japanese Good Luck Collection
03.June.2021 | FASHION
The new Sonny Angel Japanese Good Luck Series was released on May 27, the same month when the popular doll series reached its 17th anniversary milestone. The series sees Sonny Angel wearing a range of traditional Japanese lucky charms to deliver healing and happiness to people.
The Line-Up
A Lucky Cat with a cute bell on his neck. His raised left hand/paw will bring you good luck.
A hat depicting Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan. Pine, bamboo and plum leaves are illustrated on the folding fan.
Daruma are brightly coloured hollow dolls decorating houses in Japan so that our wishes will come true.
The Raccoon Dog has a long history as a strange, even supernatural animal and is known to be a shape shifter.
A Guardian Dog is thought to ward off evil spirits. This one is decorated in a houndstooth pattern, also known to be a sign of good luck.
Ebisuten is the god of “prosperous business”. The sea bream in his hand, a fish often served on New Year’s Day and at weddings, is a symbol of “congratulations”.
The packaging
Gift bag
The packaging features a mikuhiki design. A mizuhiki is a decorative cord made from twisted paper. If you purchase four or more dolls as part of this series on Sonny Angel’s online store, you’ll also receive a free gift bag.
Information
Sonny Angel Japanese Good Luck Series
Released: May 27, 2021
Price: ¥850 (Tax Included)
Product Page (English): https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/2021/05/07/japanese-goodluck/
Buy Online: https://www.sonnyangelstore.com/products/japanesegoodluck
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Craftsmen unite! Come check out these Edo period glass crafts at Tokyu Plaza, Ginza!
23.February.2019 | SPOT
For a three-day period from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th March 2019, There will be an event to celebrate a traditional Japanese glass craft called “Kiriko”. The event will be held at Tokyu Plaza, Ginza in the Kiriko Lounge. Kiriko is glass craft that was manufactured from the end of the Edo period to the beginning of the Meiji period of Japanese history.
The exhibition will feature many creative Edo Kiriko crafts and a lineup of crafts made in the past five years. This new generation of Kiriko crafts will take to the stage at Ginza for all to see!
From 13:00 on each day of the event, there will be a gallery talk that explains the story of the crafts, particularly focussing on a selected prize-worthy craft. There is also a chance to get involved with Kiriko craft-making. To take part, check out Fujimaki select shop’s official website as the website is currently accepting reservations.
From works and goods to taking part, come learn the different aspects of Edo Kiriko crafts at this event in Ginza!
Information
■Information
Edo Kiriko Exhibition
江戸切子新作展
Event period:Friday 15th ー Sunday 17th March 2019
Location:Kiriko Lounge, Tokyu Plaza, Ginza
Tokyu Plaza, Ginza
Address:5-2-1, Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
Opening times:11:00 ー 21:00
https://ginza.tokyu-plaza.com/
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Traditional Japanese Crafts Brand UMEBOSI to Release Edo Kiriko Glasses
27.August.2018 | FASHION
UMEBOSI is an original brand by tool shop WISE・WISE tools that seeks to breathe life into traditional Japanese craftwork in today’s modern age. The second line of products in the brand series to be released makes use of traditional Edo Kiriko cut glass and it will arrive in October 2018.
Interest in products made in Japan has been deepening in recent years in both Japan and overseas. However, there is still discussion there being a lack of successors in inheriting traditional methods, and the topic of spreading its use still remains.
KIGI was been appointed to help tackle these issues, an art director who receives tremendous support from the young generation in Japan. The project was started to promote these creative crafts to more people in a new light. The first line of products was announced in October 2015. The most popular amongst them was the Edo Kiriko glass series. Five new designs from that range have now been released.
UMEBOSI Edo Kiriko Glasses – 5 New Designs
These usuhari glasses are made using a traditional Edo Kiriko method called hana kiriko. The five designs include a tree leaf and acorn, a horse, a dragonfly, a chrysanthemum, and a dandelion. They have also brought back the rabbit and cherry designs from the 2015 line.
These glasses are a fusion of traditional craft and modern skill. Why not get your hands on one?
■Information
UMEBOSI Edo Kiriko Glasses – 5 New Designs
Shop: WISE・WISE tools
Address: 3F Galleria, Tokyo Midtown, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo
TEL: 03-5647-8355
Website: http://wisewisetools.com
*The photos taken are of products still in development. Actual product may differ slightly.
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5 Must-Wear Yukata for Japanese Summer 2018
Yukata are a traditional type of Japanese clothing originally used before and after entering a steam bath. Today, they are used as summer dress when going to events such as summer festivals and firework festivals.
They come in many different colours and designs. Here’s a list of ones we recommend for summer 2018.
Sailor Moon Yukata
These Sailor Moon themed yukata have been made in collaboration with Kyoto Marubeni. Choose from five yukata sets inspired by each sailor as well a range of other chic and modern yukata. They have all the accessories you need to including obi and folding fans so you can enjoy the full dress-up experience. How about becoming a sailor this summer?
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/88541
■Information
Bishojo Senshi Sailor Moon Yukata
Released: April 2018
Available Stores: Premium Bandai, department stores, kimono stores and online stores in Japan
Price:
・Yukata Set (Yukata + Tsukuri Obi) – ¥16,800 (+Tax) – 6 Designs
・Yukata – ¥38,000 (+Tax) – 7 Designs
・Obi – ¥15,000 (+Tax) – 4 Designs
・Folding Fan – ¥3,800 (+Tax) – 6 Designs
©Naoko Takeuchi・PNP・Toei Animation
Yukata Fukubukuro
Kyoto based traditional Japanese clothing brand KIMONOMACHI are selling yukata fukubukuro, or ‘lucky bags.’ There are several lucky bags to choose from, including one containing a single yukata, a 2-set which includes a yukata and obi, and 4, 5 and 6-sets which include that plus accessories. Part of the reason for the popularity of these bags is that you can pick from four sizes: Small (S), Free, (F), Tall (TL), and 2L. Choose from a variety of kawaii infused yukata!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/108656
■Information
Website: https://www.kimonomachi.co.jp/
Disney Princess Yukata
Disney have released a range of yukata and accessories at five of their stores and online. The Ariel and Rapunzel are original designs that were specially illustrated for these yukata. No matter which you choose, all of them embrace the characters’ stories down to the tiniest of details. Pick one of these yukata and become a Disney princess this summer!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/113122
■Information
Disney Original Yukata & Accessories
Released: June 22, 2018
Available: 5 Disney Stores (Tokyo Disney Resort, Shibuya Koen-Dori, Sendai Toei Plaza, Shinsaibashi, Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi) + Online
Webpage: https://store.disney. co.jp/special/yukata.aspx
*Please be aware that items may sell out.
*The designs, price and release dates are subject to change.
©DisneyTokyo 2020 Emblem Yukata
Summer 2018 marks two years until the Tokyo Olympics. Gear yourself up for the excitement this summer with these official Tokyo 2020 yukata, jinbei and accessories. Cloisonne design yukata with the Tokyo 2020 emblem on them were released on July 3, and the above indigo design will be available from early August. Both are stylish and come in a gentleman’s version and a lady’s version.
■Information
Tokyo 2020 Official Online Shop: https://tokyo2020shop.jp/
SCANDINAVIAN PATTERN COLLECTION
This collection is a Northern Europe design project developed by Andfika for children. There are yukata for girls and jinbei for both boys and girls. The collection incorporates designs from three designers in Sweden and Finland. The clothes are a unique mix of Northern Europe designs and traditional Japan clothing.
Did you like this list? There’s a lot of variation when it comes to yukata, so be sure to pick the right one for yourself this summer in Japan.