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.
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.
Made in Japan, from Japanese cotton kimono fabric at a 100-year-old factory, these pants are a modern take—with Hamptons flourishes—on the traditional worker pant known as Monpe. Indigo stripes complement the navy cotton, offering visual texture but an understated, solid navy is available, too. This is premium loungewear, designed to be worn at home, on the beach or even out at night.
More than just a tea shop, Kyoto-based retailer Ippodo Tea Co. has specialized in the cultivation and blending of matcha, sencha and other Japanese teas for nearly three centuries. Their Kan-no-shiro 40g can of matcha powder is ground from shade-cultivated leaves and soothes with its full-bodied flavor and mellow sweetness. It’s an unfailing choice for green tea aficionados and newcomers alike.
Designed by Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma and Associates, these Tsumiki balancing triangles echo the playfulness of childhood games in a more refined form. Available in sets of seven, 13 or 22, the pieces can be stacked to create various architectural structures to decorate your home. And since they’re made from solid cedar wood from the Miyazaki prefecture, they’ll not only add beauty, but a pleasant scent too. Price is in Yen.
From 100% Japanese cotton, The Hill-Side’s long-sleeve indigo ombre plaid flannel shirt is all about the details. From the button-down collar to the gusset at each side seam and an interior twill tape locker loop, everything has been taken into consideration for a shirt that can be dressed up or worn quite casually. Further, there’s a traditional single-needle construction utilized, manufactured in NYC’s Garment District.
An appropriate fit defines good T-shirts. With inspiration from military issue undershirts, Apolis’ indigo pocket T-shirt falls upon the body beautifully, without being too snug. From 100% pre-washed cotton, naturally indigo-dyed, that’s been grown and sewn in Peru, the construction’s top notch here, as well.
