Japan’s allure cannot be attributed to any specific sector—be it cuisine or culture, design and architecture, cities of the future or quiet reprieves, the island nation offers unparalleled experiences. This is why we continue to return and explore. On the ground, we’ve seen this magnetism translate into the development of many globally acclaimed products, too. We are always on the look out for Japanese indigo, but that’s not all. There are so many products that reflect the values of the country and its aesthetic interests—many of which are in this gift guide, which is sure to appeal to those dreaming of a visit or anyone who appreciates items produced with thoughtful details in mind.
Coasters can be kitsch, dull or oftentimes overly-branded. This set of gradient indigo-dyed ones isn’t any of that. Hand-dyed and then treated with natural leather oil, these sophisticated coasters elevate cocktail hours. And, because they’re dyed by hand, each one is entirely unique—with some of the flaws being exactly what’s most charming about them.
Translated from Japanese, Sashiko stitching means “little stabs” or “little pierces.” This is the technique with which Prospective Flow’s Suna Hat has been crafted. Made from 100% cotton, this tulip style accessory is durable and packable—perfect for getaways. Available in three colorways—faded black, olive or natural—this off-white is our pick.
Onigiri artist Yujia Hu makes wildly detailed sneaker-shaped sushi from iconic designs like Air Jordans, Chuck Taylors, Stan Smiths and more. First creating the little treasures in his family’s restaurant Sakana Sushi in Milan, Hu is now sharing all his tricks and tips to make sneaker sushi at home. These recipes and techniques are outlined in Shoeshi, the artist’s debut book. Price is in British Pounds.
Equal parts luxuriant oak furniture and technically-advanced musical keyboard, the Roland Kiyola Piano is a MoMA Design Store exclusive. Handcrafted in Japan by furniture-maker Karimoku, the minimalist instrument features unique grain patterns, with 88 keys crafted from a wood and plastic hybrid structure. In contrast to most other digital pianos (which employ sampling/pre-recorded sounds from other pianos), this particular machine employs Roland’s heartier piano modeling, lending a fullness reminiscent of an acoustic piano.
From Kyoto-based Matchaeologist comes a new ceremonial-grade matcha tasting set incorporating three different blends: Misaki, Matsu, and Meiko. This very collection has repeatedly won the highest award from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, when judged on everything from aroma and taste to color. The tea itself is as high-quality as possible, worth of the ceremony for sure—but also capable of winning over new matcha coverts.
All packaged up in a black leather Baggu pouch, Tetra’s hand-picked goods for on-the-go tokers are minimal but colorful, handy and playful. Inside you’ll find unbleached hemp rolling papers, a white bronze Fog Pin, gold Slide lighter, green acrylic box for storage, and a bottle of Japanese eyedrops.
This all-in-one teapot and mug is made for solo time, and takes a few tips from the traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the same time. Heat-resistant to save your hands, this cup keeps your tea warm while it steeps and you concentrate on getting zen. The vibrant touch of color adds just the right amount of energy to an object that encourages serenity.
Made from absorbent washi (Japanese paper) threads that are infused with Kumazasa plant fibers, these room boots—aka boot-shaped slippers—are breathable, moisture-wicking and antibacterial. Even more importantly, they’re super-cozy and warm for the winter months. Shuffle around your house in comfort while the snow falls outside. Available in black or camel.
With everything needed to start a matcha obsession, Ippodo’s matcha tea kit includes all items required for regular and consistent matcha-making. There’s a strainer, whisk, bamboo ladle, whisk stand and (of course) ceremonial-grade matcha, but the kit’s booklet might be the most important item as it offers guidance through the matcha preparation ritual.
Available in several prints and colorways, Fleur du Mal’s Haori kimono is made from super-luxurious 100% silk and designed to take its shape from traditional kimonos. The newest print is bold and floral, and can be worn as a robe or blazer.
Room shoes are Japanese home essentials and a tradition growing more common in the Western world. Crafted from Sasawashi fabric, these Osaka-made slippers from Rikumo absorb moisture (and odors) and won’t pill. Best of all, of course, they are comfortable to slip into after a long day.
After two years of development and testing with NYC-based athletes and Japanese engineers, District Vision’s running sunglasses are functional and stylish. Instead of wearing goggle-style shades when you jog, now you can wear performance sunnies that are light and comfortable while also striking in appearance. Featuring a hypoallergenic adjustable nosepad, the sunglasses weigh just 22 grams.
With no heating, fermentation or extra ingredients, Yamato Indigo only needs water and you’re on your way to dyeing fabric a lush, vibrant blue. Able to color natural materials (including cotton, linen, silk, leather, wood and washi paper), the starter kit comes with 10g of Yamato Indigo, three cotton bandanas, wood sticks, rubber bands and two pairs of gloves.
Milled in the historic Guimarães region of Portugal, the 100% linen (front) and 100% Percale (reverse) fabric of this contemporary quilt yields both a gentle texture on one side and sheer softness on the other. References are made to the traditional box pattern blanket, but the garment-dyed linen hasn’t been artificially treated—which is a common practice aimed at further softening. Instead, the Percale lends the extra comfort. At a medium weight, due in part to the poly batting fill, this is also an ideal item for layering.
Dyed and printed in Japan on 100% combed, ring-spun cotton yarn, this T-shirt has a few messages up its sleeves. Of course, there’s the graphic on the front encouraging peace. But further details, from the vintage-inspired small cut-out gussets at each side to the half moon panel on the back for position, define this as more than a novelty T-shirt. It offers a classic fit, and the fabric feels quite substantial without excess weight—due to choice of a heavier yarn but looser knit.
Cinnamon Projects’ elegant incense burner is inspired by traditional 16th century koh-do ceremonies in Japan, which are thought to remove impurities, refresh the spirit and bring about a moment of peace. “Circa” comes packed in a handsome gift box and includes the solid brass burner and 50-stick set of five scents, each designed for a particular time of day.
