ARTICLES
SHOPPING
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CURATED STROLL INTO THE CITY OF DIVERSITYDelve into diversity in Daikanyama, one of Tokyo's eclectic collections of artistic enclaves. With an expert guide, a walk around Shibuya's "brooklynesque" neighbor unveils the rich history and many charms of this enchanting area.
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AN EVER-CHANGING CITY -
TOKYO'S MANY LAYERSMonocle Magazine's Asia Bureau Chief Fiona Wilson has spent more time than most exploring the mix of old and new that make Tokyo such a unique place. Here, she shares a few of her favorite finds in the city.
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DELICATE AROMAS OF JAPANScent, emotion, and memory are inextricably intertwined - so what finer way to mark a sojourn in Tokyo than visiting the atelier of a globally-acclaimed perfumer. Aromas that capture the very essence of Japan await.
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RETAINING TRADITIONS WHILE GO BEYOND TRADITIONSThe kimono–a symbol of Japanese beauty and tradition – is continuing to evolve through the work of contemporary artisans. At a bright, airy boutique in Tokyo, HIROCOLEDGE reimagines the kimono for modern life with vivid designs based on timeless motifs.
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JAPAN BLUE MEETS THE FUTUREIndigo – the color of victory, the color of tradition, and the color of the future. Using all-natural ingredients and techniques passed down from the 8th century, Tateisucanna offers fashion imbued with the wisdom and beauty of Japan’s aizome indigo dyeing tradition.
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The Pinnacle of Craftsmanship : Bespoke Shoes by SonomitsuLovingly tailored to each customer, Sonomitsu’s handmade shoes are a superb example of Japanese craftsmanship. Cap your exploration of the charming, history-laden area of Yanesen in northeast Tokyo by visiting shoemaker Hajime Sonoda at his atelier for a personalized shoe consultation.
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EDO KUMIKO : AN INTRICATE AFFAIRVisit this small Edo workshop, specializing in delicate wooden latticework, and bring back a piece of Japanese carpentry history in the form of a beautiful andon lantern, a speciality of Takahiro Tanaka who continues this proud Tokyo tradition.
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NEW WAVE MEETS TRADITIONUkiyo-e – the striking woodblock prints that inspired Monet and Van Gogh and set the course of fashion in Edo-era Japan. Uncover your own authentic masterpiece at Hara Shobo in Kanda, and bring home a one-of-a-kind masterpiece of Japanese art.
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STORY FROM A SINGLE THREADTraditions handed down for over a thousand years and stories beginning with a single thread − kimonos embody Japan’s timeless devotion to craftsmanship, beauty and style. At Ginza Motoji, select your own hand-crafted fabrics to create your own personally fitted masterpiece.
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FANTASTIC ART FOUND ONLY IN TOKYOTokyo’s art scene is a thriving mix of well-established museums and smaller innovative galleries showcasing the best of the new.
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COLLABORATION OF BLOWING AND CARVINGEdo Kiriko glass – a handmade artistic tradition crystallizing the spirt of Tokyo. Glass hand-blown by Tajima Glass and carved and polished by artisan workshops such as Hanashyo offer you a perfect, breathtaking memento of Tokyo that will endure for generations.
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CUSTOMIZING TRADITIONAL CRAFTSHome to many unique craft traditions developed in its days as a castle town during the Edo period (1603–1868), Tokyo offers refined souvenirs and gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
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OLD MEETS NEW: MODERN CULTURE AND TRADITIONS MERGETradition need not stand still. Tokyo, the neon metropolis, was once Edo, the cradle of culture. Today, artists and artisans across the city are keeping that culture alive in innovative ways connecting old and new, expressing classical ideas through a different lens for successive generations.
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ETHICAL EXPERIENCES IN TOKYOIf you're seeking a more ethical way to experience Japan, the resurgence of traditional crafts and the uptick in upcycling will catch your eye in Tokyo. Against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis, you can find locals committed to positive change around almost every corner.
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MINDFULNESS EXPERIENCES IN TOKYOTokyo is known for its energy and buzz, but it knows to stop and smell the roses, too. From ceremonies of tea to incense, traditional Japanese culture has long embraced mindful ways of enjoying life's simple pleasures. Experience modern takes of these venerable rituals in the city, and discover peace within.
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RECOMMENDED GIFTS & VALUABLE NEW PRODUCTSIn Japan’s culture of gift-giving, the elegance and quality of souvenirs from Tokyo are matched only by their variety. From the finest kitchenware to exquisite handcrafts, the best of Japan is found here.
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TOKYO'S LATEST FASHION, SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICTSTokyo's vibrant entertainment and shopping districts are second to none. Simply pick one and start walking-the city will surprise you at every turn with its iconic landmarks and stylish new destinations.