Shopping for Traditional Japanese Crafts in Tokyo
Picture yourself strolling through the streets of Tokyo, skyscrapers towering above you; yet, you still find glimpses of old Japan here and there. You have no choice but to marvel at the synchronicity they’ve achieved between tradition and modernity. Here, shopping is done differently. It is now a cross between a mini-vacation and an art exhibition. Welcome to the world of traditional Japanese crafts in Tokyo!
The Artistry of Japanese Crafts
Before entering the Japanese world of crafts, you should familiarize yourself with the exceptional diversity and history of these objects. Why, you ask? When strolling through shops and markets, you can discover several crafts, with every single one of them narrating a story about the legends of Japanese art.
Here are some of the most iconic Japanese crafts you’ll encounter:
Ceramics (陶磁器, Tōjiki)
- Arita-yaki: Intricate blue and white porcelain
- Bizen-yaki: Earthy, unglazed stoneware
- Kutani-yaki: Colorful over-glazed porcelain
Textiles (織物, Orimono)
- Nishijin-ori: Elaborate silk brocades
- Yukata: Casual summer kimonos
- Tenugui: Versatile hand towels with decorative prints
Lacquerware (漆器, Shikki)
- Wajima-nuri: High-quality, durable lacquerware
- Tsugaru-nuri: Colorful, layered lacquer designs
Woodwork (木工芸, Mokkōgei)
- Hakone Yosegi-zaiku: Intricate wooden mosaic work
- Edo Sashimono: Traditional joinery techniques in furniture
Paper Crafts (和紙, Washi)
- Origami paper: For the art of paper folding
- Chiyogami: Decorative paper with colorful patterns
- Shoji paper: Used for traditional sliding doors and lanterns
Metalwork (金工, Kinkō)
- Nambu Tekki: Cast ironware, often used for teapots
- Edo-kiriko: Cut glass with intricate geometric patterns
As you hold a delicate tea bowl or admire a lustrous lacquer box, you’re not just seeing a beautiful object – you’re touching a piece of history, crafted with techniques refined over centuries.
A Tour of Tokyo’s Craft Shopping Districts
As you plan your craft shopping adventure, you’ll find that each area of Tokyo offers a unique experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best districts for craft shopping:
Asakusa
- Nakamise Shopping Street: Traditional crafts lining the path to Senso-ji Temple.
- Marugoto Nippon: A four-story complex dedicated to regional Japanese products.
Nihonbashi
- Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C.: Basement floor filled with traditional craft shops.
- COREDO Muromachi: A complex housing both traditional and modern Japanese goods.
Ginza
- Hakuhinkan Toy Park: Despite the name, offers an excellent selection of traditional crafts.
- Itoya: A 12-story stationary store with a wide selection of washi paper products.
Roppongi
- Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square at Tokyo Midtown: Showcase for officially recognized traditional crafts.
Harajuku
- Oriental Bazaar: One of Tokyo’s largest souvenir shops, offering a wide range of crafts.
Omotesando
- Wayō-An: Specializing in high-quality lacquerware.
Asakusa is the best place for you to begin your exploration, because of the district’s longstanding history. As you stroll through the Nakamise Shopping Street which leads to Senso-ji Temple, you will find shops dealing in everything from pottery, fabrics, wooden carvings, and metal work among other products.
From Asakusa, make your way to Nihonbashi, another historical spot that used to be the center of commerce during the Edo period. Right here in this city of sparkling new skyscrapers, don’t be shocked to find out there are small shops that have been in business for hundreds of years.
Contemporary Meets Traditional
As you proceed with your shopping trip, you will learn how modern Tokyo is proudly incorporating its craft traditions. Do you still need a full feel of Japan’s traditional crafts? The Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square located at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi has got you. Here, you’ll find exhibits of officially certified traditional crafts from all over Japan. You can also watch the application of ancient techniques in the creation of modern artworks.
If you are that person who prefers to get everything they need in one place, Tokyo also has the perfect spot for you. Just head on to Oriental Bazaar located in Harajuku.
This is one of the biggest souvenir shops where you can find almost anything local in one place. It is also great for those who don’t have much time or have already done most of their shopping.
The Art of Mindful Shopping
It is crucial not to forget that each of the objects that you are choosing is not just a mere souvenir, but rather a part of living history. Here are some tips to enhance your craft shopping experience:
- Quality Matters: Traditionally designed and made items are pricey but they are always good to buy due to their quality. Some telltale features include repetitive, polished glazing on ceramics or tight, uniform stitching on fabrics.
- Understand the Story: Most of the traditional arts can be associated with certain origins and purposes. Knowing these can increase your knowledge and will aid in picking meaningful souvenirs.
- Check for Authenticity: Look for certificates of authenticity, especially for more expensive items.
- Consider Practicality: While many traditional crafts are beautiful, also consider how you might use or display them at home.
- Learn Basic Terms: Knowing a few Japanese terms related to the crafts you’re interested in can be helpful when shopping.
Bringing Japan Home Through Guided Tours
As your Tokyo craft shopping adventure concludes, you’ll find yourself with more than just beautiful objects. Each carefully selected piece becomes a tangible connection to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. That ceramic tea bowl or intricate textile isn’t just a souvenir—it’s a daily reminder of the skill and artistry you’ve witnessed.
To truly immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese crafts, consider booking a specialized craft shopping tour. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply want to make the most of your souvenir shopping, a guided tour can transform your Tokyo craft shopping experience from memorable to extraordinary.
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