Essential Handmade Brands to Buy in Japan: A Selection of Japan’s Most Unique and Original Creations

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

In recent years, as the cultural creativity trend has continued to heat up, handmade and original goods have become popular must-buy items. Each piece is a unique creation that allows buyers to feel the maker's heartfelt touch. The finely handcrafted products from Japan have always been a guarantee of quality. They adhere to their own philosophies and strict quality standards, making Japanese handmade goods truly irresistible. Scenic Spots has carefully selected five distinctive handmade brands and recommends them to travelers visiting Japan. While exploring the country, be sure to check out these unique shops.
 
1. Ibaraki Prefecture – Kankachi Workshop (カンキチ工房)
Wool moss balls for succulents are spherical bases made by bundling dried moss and yarn. Their soft pink hues are incredibly cute and hard to resist.

2. Okinawa Prefecture – Emizoku by Eg (エミゾクバイイグ)
The brand concept is “exotic charm naturally expressed in everyday life.” It makes extensive use of folk-style elements such as Native American patterns and tassels.

3. Tokyo – Fillyjonk (フィリフヨンカ)
Fillyjonk was founded in 2012 by the couple Kenmori Shuhei and Hiraiwa Naoko. Mrs. Hiraiwa Naoko originally worked as a sculptor before starting to make accessories, while her husband Kenmori Shuhei is an architect. Their final collaboration combines the softness of femininity with the strength of masculinity, resulting in works that are both contradictory and harmonious.