Editor in chief of dancyu web
Takuya Ebe joined the editorial department of one of Tokyo’s most influential food magazines, dancyu, in 2000. The magazine has a devoted following not only among those in the food industry, but also people in fashion and a range of other culture and creative industries. It is targeted primarily at men, but is also becoming increasingly popular among women. After serving as editor in chief from 2013 to 2017, Ebe now oversees the online food magazine, dancyu web, which is fast becoming a popular online destination for Tokyo’s most discerning and stylish people looking for food and style inspiration. We sat down with with Ebe to find out more about the ways in which food and fashion trends overlap.
Recently, it seems that there are an increasing number of people who admire the clothing and lifestyles of chefs and celebrity cooks in addition to the food they make. There have even been a number of popular books published in Japan featuring female chefs’ clothing.
That’s definitely true, especially among young people. There are also an increasing number of fashionable chefs focusing not only on great-tasting food, stylish tableware, and so on, but who are also committed to creating a whole worldview with their restaurants. This is evident in the food, the interior décor of the restaurant, the clothes their servers wear, and more.
In the past, it was normal for a successful chef to open a second larger restaurant, compared with their first. But now it seems that chefs want to downsize. They seem to want to focus on their personal vision and to do it in such a way that they can be really hands-on in every aspect of the restaurant’s style. I think these chefs have a really good understanding of food and drink, of course, but also of what kind of fashion suits their personal style.
Is there a kind of food or drink that you would say can really express individual style?
Sake. Since sake is produced throughout Japan, I think a person’s choice of sake—where the kind of sake they like was brewed—can tell you something about where a person has been, what they have experienced, where they come from, and where they are going. To put it another way, I think a person can express a lot about their individual style and personality through the sake they choose to drink.
Younger sake producers, who tend to have vastly different lifestyles and experiences from their more traditional predecessors, are also transforming sake’s image. Whereas the previous generation of brewers might have devoted their working lives to brewing sake exclusively, this new generation seems to come into the trade after living in Tokyo or after working for a few years in another industry. They tend to have more global viewpoints and are also very fashion conscious. I have even noticed recently that label designs on sake bottles have become more stylish, which is perhaps an expression of this wider, more design- and style-oriented experience that young sake brewers bring to producing sake. There are so many foods like this, too, whose provenance, quality and style of preparation, and presentation can express some-one’s personal history, lifestyle, and fashion sense. But for me, I definitely can sense a person’s individual style through sake.
It seems that this emphasis on individual style is making fashion more and more fragmented and differentiated. Do you think something similar is happening with food?
Yes, and I think the change began particularly around the turn of the millennium. Before around 2000, I never used to write more than just “sake” or “shochu” (a stronger distilled spirit) when talking about alcohol and food. But now, I have to go into great detail about the taste of each kind of sake, the brands, and so on. I think this is like people’s obsession with the methods and details of manufacturing that go into jeans and white T-shirts. In Tokyo, there are so many ideas and information about fashion available that people who take a particular stance like this to differentiate themselves are increasing. But I also think the overwhelming majority of people are simply trying out new trends in food and fashion because they’re getting media attention.
— Takuya Ebe
When enjoying food or fashion becomes too trend driven, I think people risk losing their sense of themselves and what they like. If you don’t actually like the food at a celebrated restaurant, or if everyone says a new fashion trend is good, but it doesn’t work with your own style, you might start to doubt your own taste. That’s why I think enjoying food and wearing styles you like is a good way to show your personality. If you focus on what you really love, your sense of style will be obvious.
TOKYO GUIDE ICONS
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HARAJUKU & OMOTESANDO
BIG LOVE
Offering a selection of new releases focusing on albums from Europe and America, Big Love is getting a reputation as a spot for that uniquely Japanese tribe of fashion-sensitive music maniacs.
3F-A, 2-31-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.bigloverecords.jp
DEPT @VACANT
VACANT
(see this page)
A combination vintage clothing store, concept store, café, and event gallery space.
1 & 2F 3-20-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo d-e-p-t.tokyo www.vacant.vc
EATRIP
THE LITTLE SHOP OF FLOWERS
(see this page)
6-31-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
restaurant-eatrip.com
www.thelittleshopofflowers.jp
FACETASM JINGUMAE
For those looking for the hottest Japanese brands that are also popular overseas, Facetasm should be the first stop. The store is in a renovated Japanese house covered in creeping ivy whose interior has been refurbished in a style that captures the essence of Tokyo street style. And be sure to check out the cool styles put together by Chang (see this page), a staff member who is well known in Tokyo for her unique approach to styling.
2-31-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.facetasm.jp
FALINE TOKYO
(see this page)
1-7-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.bambifaline.com
#FFFFFFT SENDAGAYA
A selection of exclusively solid white T-shirts from Japanese and international brands. The potential variations on a basic white T-shirt theme is astounding. Everything looks the same and yet completely different! Open only on Saturdays.
1F 2-3-5 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.fffffft.com
FILMELANGE
A Japanese brand that is popular with people of all ages, FilMelange features casual designs created with quality tailoring and luxury materials.
1F Shuwa Gaien Residence, 2-6-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
filmelange.com
HABERDASHERY OMOTESANDO
Offering eternally stylish clothes that remain above the vagaries of fashion trends, including major Japanese brands such as ASEED-ONCLOUD.
102 Mahal Omotesando, 5-12-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.haberdashery.co.jp
HARAJUKU ROCKET
With so many different events going on in gallery that often hosts culinary events, there is always something new to discover. Be sure to check out OMOTESANDO ROCKET (next to Omotesando Hills), too.
6-9-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.rocket-jp.com
KOFFEE MAMEYA
A selection of beans from around the world roasted in different ways. Discover your favorite through a one-on-one consultation, and don’t forget to try the coffee while you’re there.
4-15-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.koffee-mameya.com
LAMP HARAJUKU
(see this page)
4-28-15 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.lamp-harajuku.com
MARTE
(see this page)
202 Villa Hase, 6-6-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
marte.jp
NUMBER SUGAR
Caramels at Number Sugar are made without additives for an exceptional taste, and, with such cute packaging, they make the perfect souvenir. Be sure to try caramel-flavored drinks, too.
1F 5-11-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.numbersugar.jp
OCAILLE
(see this page)
101 Villa Rosa, 3-31-17 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @ocaille
OTOE
This is the vintage shop TORO’s second location, focusing on their original brand, Otoelogy, which features “remake” designs crafted from vintage and secondhand clothing.
2F 2-31-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @otoelogy
SANTAMONICA OMOTESANDOU
(see this page)
5-8-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @santamonica_omotesandou
THE NORTH FACE 3 (MARCH)
The North Face 3 (march) store manager, Yuka Nagatsuma, wears urban outdoor styles. “Women who come into the shop care not only about the designs but also their functionality.”
Although the North Face is a well-known American brand specializing in durable, comfortable urban outdoor style, most of the items featured in this shop are actually designed in Japan and are limited editions only available in Japan. This rarity in their selection attracts a number of fans of North F ace from overseas.
NA Building, 6-10-8 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.instagram.com/tnf_march
TORO
(see this page)
1-2-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @torovintageclothing
VERMEERIST BEAMS
(see this page)
B1F International Gallery BEAMS, 3-25-15 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.beams.co.jp/vermeerist
AOYAMA, NISHI-AZABU & AZABU-JUBAN
AURALEE
A new Japanese brand that has been getting attention from a wide range of stylish, fashion-sensitive people for its neutral designs, original materials, outstanding comfort and fit, and limited edition pieces. The brand’s flagship store is in Minami-Aoyama near the old-fashioned jazz club Blue Note Tokyo.
1F 6-3-2 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
auralee.jp
BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
This Japanese brand with a large overseas fan base offers designs that are full of wit. Their skillfully crafted patterns create beautiful silhouettes that must be seen to be believed.
3-16-6 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
beautiful-people.jp
BLOOM & BRANCH AOYAMA COBI COFFEE AOYAMA THE BAR BY BRIFT H
(see this page)
101 Daiichi Kuyou Building, 5-10-5 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
bloom-branch.jp
BROWN RICE CANTEEN
Located inside Neil’s Yard, the natural apothecary from London, this café offers a varied menu of vegetable-rich Japanese dishes.
1F 5-1-8 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.nealsyard.co.jp/brownrice
EYEVAN 7285 TOKYO
This eyewear brand is getting attention as a favorite among Tokyo’s most stylish people. The brand’s “Made in Japan” quality and detailing are sure to appeal to anyone looking for outstanding eyewear.
1F 5-16-2 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
eyevan7285.com
MUVEIL
A collection of Japanese brands whose designs incorporate handcrafted details such as beading and embroidery.
B1F Chateau Toyo Minami Aoyama, 5-12-24 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.muveil.com
HASEGAWA SAKETEN AZABU-JUBAN
For sake aficionados, Hasegawa Saketen in Azabu-Juban is a must visit. The store carries a selection of more than two hundred different types of sake—carefully chosen to suit the time of year—to pair with the season’s signature dishes. Chefs from all over the world come here because of this constantly changing selection and its location near some of Tokyo’s best restaurants. With its cups and foods that complement the sake, the store is a good introduction to Japanese food culture—and is a reliable place to find souvenirs.
2-3-3 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.hasegawasaketen.com
H BEAUTY&YOUTH PIZZA SLICE
(see this page)
3-14-17 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.h-beautyandyouth.com
HEIGHTS
Situated in a quiet vintage apartment building, this is a select shop for those in the know. Shopping is done through one-on-one consultations where staff advise on personalized beauty, skincare, and grocery selections to stimulate all five senses.
*Consultations by appointment only (reservations can be made on their website)
www.heights-heights.com
This store offers retro modern Japanese-style homewares, interior décor, and other items. Be sure to stop in at the nearby Nezu Art Museum, too.
1F Palace Aoyama, 6-1-6 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.higashiaoyama.jp
LAILA VINTAGE
A popular stop for international fashion designers visiting Tokyo, Laila Vintage is the sister store to the concept store Laila Tokio (see this page).
5-46-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
laila.jp
MEETSCAL STORE AOYAMA
A concept store that celebrates local culture through an abundant collection of one-of-a-kind works by up-and-coming artists.
5-2-15 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.meetscal.parco.jp
MINT DESIGNS AOYAMA
Japanese fashion brand whose product designs have been influential and well-received internationally. It’s no wonder that the brand counts many artists among its fans.
5-49-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
mint-designs.com
MISS FALINE
(see this page)
3-6-26 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.bambifaline.com
NO.501
Featuring a range of rare natural wines, customers at no.501 take advice from the charming in-house sommelier. Don’t forget to try some of her recommendations at the bar inside the store.
1F SEIZAN Gaien, 2-5-4, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
bottle.tokyo/no501
SAKURAI JAPANESE TEA EXPERIENCE
Experience Japanese hospitality at its best in this unique tea salon. The menu also features Japanese tea blended with herbal teas and alcohol. A good selection of tea leaves are also available as souvenirs.
5F SPIRAL, 5-6-23 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
sakurai-tea.jp
SIRI SIRI
Naho Okamoto, the brand’s designer, manages the SIRI SIRI store, which also serves as the brand’s showroom. Here you’ll find a full range of rings, necklaces, pierced earrings, and bracelets made using traditional Japanese craftsmanship, techniques, and materials, including glass, rattan, acrylic, and more.
2F Kasumicho Building, 2-11-10 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
sirisiri.jp
SUPER A MARKET
(see this page)
3-18-9 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
www.superamarket.jp
SURR BY LAILA
An affiliate store of Laila Vintage and Laila Tokio (see this page), SURR by LAILA is known for its vintage clothing for men, including a lineup of rare work and military styles, as well as clothes from major fashion houses. All of the clothes are in excellent condition, so the selection will also appeal to those who do not normally go for vintage. The “Diary” page on their website, written by the store’s knowledgeable staff (Japanese only), is a constant source of fashion news and hot conversation topics among people in Tokyo’s fashion world, and their fabulous Instagram feed is also well worth a look (@surr_by_laila).
202 3-15-13 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
surr.co.jp
TSUTA COFFEE
Spend a few moments in blissful relaxation drinking coffee at this café while you enjoy the beautiful garden that is lovingly tended by hand.
1F 5-11-20 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
tsutacoffee.html.xdomain.jp
COW’N
(see this page)
42-2 Kamiyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
on.fb.me/1DYXqks
DESPERADO
(see this page)
1F Shibuya Sakuragaoka Building, 4-23 Sakuragaoka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.desperadoweb.net
DISCO
A popular nail salon creating nail designs that combine fashion and art. The owner and nail artist, Nagisa Kaneko, her staff, and of course the customers at DISCO are among Tokyo’s most fashionable people.
3F 1-14-9 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.disco-tokyo.com
D47
A store by the brand D & DEPARTMENT centered on the theme of long-life Japanese design from designers and craftsman throughout Japan, and also featuring a gallery space and restaurant.
8F Shibuya Hirarie, 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.d-department.com./jp
GEN GEN AN
Try the taste of authentic Japanese tea while listening to the hip-hop music playing in this café.
1F 4-8 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.gengenan.net
GRAPHPAPER
(see this page)
The store’s tranquil, gallery-like space holds a surprising trick—something to look forward to as you head to the store. They also hold solo exhibitions of popular ceramics designers and craftspeople, so be sure to check their website regularly to see what’s going on.
1A/2D Kari Mansion, 5-36-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.graphpaper-tokyo.com
UTRECHT
Next door to the concept store Graphpaper is this independent bookstore. Focusing on art, design, and fashion, Utrecht deals in rare books and magazines that can’t be found anywhere else.
2C Kari Mansion, 5-36-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
utrecht.jp
HIGH AND SEEK
(see this page)
*Open to female shoppers only
C-408 Villa Moderna, 1-3-18 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
highandseek.blogspot.jp
LAILA TOKYO
(see this page)
2F 1-5-11 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
laila-tokio.com
N ID TOKYO
A favorite among fashion lovers from around the world, this select shop carries unique, independent brands from both Japanese and international designers.
1F 1-3-2 Jinnan Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
nid-tokyo.com
POSTALCO
Producing everyday items and leather goods, this brand offers simple, humorous, and unique designs for notebooks, pencil cases, wallets, bags, raingear, and more.
3F Yamaji Building, 1-6-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
postalco.net
SISTER
(see this page)
2F FAKE Building 6-23-12 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
sister-tokyo.com
ST&DARD MADE.
(see this page)
1F 1-1-3 Shoto, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
standard-made.jp
6/ROKU BEAUTY&YOUTH SHIBUYA CAT STREET THE LITTLE SHOP OF FLOWERS
1F 5-17-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.beautyandyouth.jp/6
www.thelittleshopofflowers.jp
7x7
San Francisco is the concept behind 7x7, which is the nickname for the area of the city where the store is located. Offering original menswear brands and hard-to-find items, many of Tokyo’s most fashion-forward women surreptitiously buy clothes here for themselves, too.
1F 1-5-11 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
seven-by-seven.com
EBISU
ANTIQUES TAMISER
A shop that fashion lovers, art lovers, antique lovers, equipment lovers, and so on attend. There is no doubt that you will admire the owner’s devotion.
3-22-1 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
tamiser.com
BRITISH EQUIPMENT PUBLISHING
This concept store offers a variety of all things British, from clothes to homewares, food, and more. People who like classic rock styles will be particularly impressed with the selection here.
1F 3-15-7 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.britishequipmenttrading.com
CONTINUER
A curated collection of eyewear brands that combines practicality and style. Don’t miss their sister store, The Parkside Room, in Kichijoji.
1F 2-9-2 Ebisu Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.continuer.jp
GALLERY DEUX POISSONS CAFÉ DEUX POISSONS
This gallery space and café features contemporary jewelry created from experimentations with various materials that go beyond precious metals and gemstones. A great place to touch the works of artists from around the world.
2-3-6 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.deuxpoissons.com
KIJIMA TAKAYUKI
One of Japan’s leading hat brands, Kijima Takayuki hats are known for their fashionable and very wearable designs and are favorites among both men and women.
1F East Daikanyama, 2-17-4 Ebisu Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.kijimatakayuki.com
PETITE ROBE NOIRE
(see this page)
This modern, elegant space exudes the style and vision of Petite Robe Noire designer Yoshiyo Abe. The brand offers a full range of timeless costume jewelry and elegant little black dresses that are sure to become keepsakes for future generations. Wedding and engagement ring orders are also accepted.
#506 5F Ebisu Flower Home, Kobayashi Building, 3-26-3 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.petiterobenoire.com
POST
This bookstore focuses on selling high-quality titles from a single publisher at a time. The store also produces original book displays for select titles and events.
2-10-3 Ebisu Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
post-books.info
SUKIMA
Specializing in shoes and leather accessories by Hender Scheme, the up-and-coming Japanese genderless brand (see this page), Sukima’s main store is situated in a space that was a car factory for fifty years. This heritage is carefully maintained in order to showcase the brand’s commitment to creating pieces that endure through the ages by proudly retaining the oil stains on the walls and floors created by years of work by the site’s car mechanics. Besides a wide variety of leather shoes, the store offers genderless bags, wallets, and pouches, along with leather home interior items. Also, the store’s “Recreation” corner, a gallery space displaying the store’s limited edition Hender Scheme pieces, is definitely a must-see!
1F 2-17-20 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
henderscheme.com
YAECA
A favorite brand among female chefs, YAECA offers simple, everyday clothing made with high-quality materials and a commitment to excellent manufacturing and tailoring.
1F 2-20-15, Ebisu Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.yaeca.com
MARKETS
Earth Day Market
If you’re looking for a farmers’ market in Tokyo, this is the one to go to. Held in two locations, one in Yoyogi Park and Inokashira Park, the market also features live music.
www.earthdaymarket.com
Oedo Antique Market
A veritable city of antiques held at both the Tokyo International Forum (in Yurakucho near Ginza) and Yoyogi Park. A favorite among Tokyo fashion insiders.
www.antique-market.jp
Farmers’ Market @UNU
Held on weekends in front of United Nations University in Aoyama, Farmers’ Market @UNU offers fresh fruits and vegetables directly from the farms. We also recommend the lunch plates at each stall.
farmersmarkets.jp
YOYOGI
LE CABARET
A casual French bistro serving dinner and wine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Motoyoyogi Leaf #1F Motoyoyogicho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
restaurant-lecabaret.com
365 JOURS
Delicious bread and baked goods made with care from natural, fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
1-6-12 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.365jours.jp
facebook: @365joursTokyo
CRISTIANO’S
Rustic Portuguese soul food served with a selection of wines from around the world.
1-51-10 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.cristianos.jp
MAISON CINQUANTE CINQ
A cozy spot for dinner serving French food and rare organic wines from around the world.
2F 3F, 3-5-1 Nishihara, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
facebook: @maisoncinquantecinq
PATH
This is the place to enjoy French food served Tokyo-style from breakfast to dinner (though we recommend making a reservation for dinner). Their bread, baked fresh on site, and patisseries are available for take-out.
1F 1-44-2 Tomigaya Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.instagram.com/path_restaurant
ROUNDABOUT
Specializing in everyday basics.
B1 3-7-12 Uehara, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
roundabout.to
SIEBEN
A unique collection of vintage interior décor, homewares, and furniture.
Type7Bldg. 10-6 Motoyoyogicho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.type-seven.com/sieben
THE MB
An eclectic selection of vintage and new pieces for men and women.
1F-A Biena-okudo, 2-43-6 Uehara, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.the-mb.net
BOUTIQUE JEANNE VALET
(see this page)
13-6 Daikanyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.jeannevalet-altosca.com
DAIKANYAMA T-SITE
Books, DVD, and CD rentals, restaurants, cafés and more are housed within this attractive “community space.” The main draw here is the Tsutaya bookstore, offering a wide range of books from all over the world. Stylish people gather here to check out the latest fashions in clothes, interiors, lifestyle, and more.
16-15 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
real.tsite.jp/daikanyama
DESCENTE BLANC
From the Japanese sports and outdoor brand DESCENTE comes a store packed with sports gear featuring high functionality and excellent style.
C Building CUBE Daikanyama, 19-4 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.descenteblanc.com
EVA
(see this page)
1B Avenue Side Daikanyama, 2-1 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
evavintagetokyo.com
GARDEN HOUSE CRAFTS
The perfect spot for lunch (they close at 8:00 P.M.), this café/restaurant offers a delicious deli menu, freshly baked bread, and a selection of cakes and desserts, all prepared using seasonal ingredients.
Log Road Daikanyama, 13-1 Daikanyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
gardenhouse-crafts.jp
HAUNT
Located behind Daikanyama Tsutaya bookstore, this select shop features a wide selection of denim clothing from Red Card (see this page), a Japanese denim brand with a good reputation both throughout Japan and internationally.
16-1 Enrakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
haunt-tokyo.com
OKURA
Discover sophisticated Japanese fashion items including indigo-dyed pants and dresses. The store’s charming interior is designed to look like the inside of a Japanese house.
20-11 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, ku, Tokyo
www.hrm.co.jp/okura
VINI VINI
The way that the selection captures the style essence of each era presented is second to none, making Vini vini a go-to source for representatives from overseas fashion house brands looking for vintage. VINIVINI LUXE nearby provides even more finds in one location.
2-11 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
vinivini.buyshop.jp
NAKAMEGURO
DEPT TOKYO
(see this page)
1-13-12 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
www.d-e-p-t.tokyo
DIGAWEL
A Japanese brand with a quintessential street style feel, DIGAWEL is popular among charismatic men and also women who like gender-neutral styles.
1F Ishizaki-Adachi Building 2-30-7 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
www.digawel.com
JANTIQUES
(see this page)
2-25-13 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
A curated selection of the basic necessities—tableware and home utensils, clothing, and shelter—to enrich everyday life. The store features brands such as FUMIKA_UCHIDA (see this page), jonnlynx (see this page), and others and has a loyal fan base among Tokyo’s fashionable women.
2F Asahibashi Building, 1-16-7 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
roots-to-branches.jp
YAECA APARTMENT STORE
Although there is no obvious sign outside, this store has a regular stream of stylish customers. The space and presentation is wonderful and is worth seeking out as a destination in its own right (see this page and this page).
2B Riviera 1-21-22 Higashiyama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
www.yaeca.com
WALTZ
For those looking for refuge from the digital age, or just a great spot to observe Tokyo’s coolest street styles, waltz is a must-see. Located on a quiet street in Nakameguro, waltz is an analogue concept store that aims to be a haven for those looking for respite from the digital music age. waltz owner Taro Tsunoda worked for Amazon Japan for years. But faced with the increasing popularity of live-streaming and digital music played on smartphones, Tsunoda decided to go independent and focus on analogue-based music. The store’s mission is to create new value for classic analogue music formats.
Since opening its doors in August 2015, waltz has earned a reputation among music lovers worldwide. Devoted customers and those who are visiting for the first time, curious to see the famous collection, come to waltz as much for the experience as for the classic vinyl albums and cassettes artfully displayed throughout the shop. waltz carries cassette tapes and players, vinyl records, old books and magazines, and VHS tapes and players, attracting a diverse and discerning clientele of music subculture lovers from all over the world.
4-15-5 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
waltz-store.co.jp
SHIMOKITAZAWA
ANTIQUE YAMAMOTO SHOTEN
Here you can find furniture and tableware that seems to come straight from an old Japanese movie. Each piece has been carefully restored so quality is guaranteed.
5-6-3 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
www.antique-yamamoto.co.jp/
B&B
This is a bookstore where you can drink beer. They have an active event calendar, so it’s best to check out their website to see what’s on before you head over.
2-12-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
bookandbeer.com
CITY COUNTRY CITY
A record store and café that’s frequented by musicians and fashion designers alike, this is the spot to get insider information on Tokyo’s music scene.
4F Hosozawa Building, 2-12-13, Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
city-country-city.com
FLOWER BAR GARDENA
Why not decorate the place you’re staying with some of the (reasonably priced) flowers lined up in front of this store? Later, in the evening, this flower shop transforms into a bar with a fantastic atmosphere.
2-34-6 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Twitter: @simokitagardena
This shop boasts an amazing selection of high-quality men’s and women’s vintage clothing from around the world located in the heart of one of Tokyo’s best areas for vintage shopping.
2-28-4 Daizawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
film-web.tumblr.com
FOG LINEN
This Japanese linen brand is gaining popularity in the US. The store offers a stylish display of their original items, which are perfect for a variety of uses and interior settings.
1F 5-35-1 Daita, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
www.foglinenwork.com
HAIGHT & ASHBURY
This long-established vintage store has been in business for more than twenty years, and their selection only gets better with age. Anyone coming here, regardless of age, style preference, and so on, is sure, to enjoy it.
2F 2-37-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
haightandashbury.com
HIGH AND LOW
A fantastic selection of good quality vintage, whether the piece is a famous brand or not. Be sure to take a look at their original “remake” pieces, too, designed and created out of vintage materials.
2-29-9 Daizawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
www.highandlow.jp
JET SET TOKYO
Another Tokyo music maniac spot, packed with new releases across genres and a great source of insider information on music trends.
201 Yanagawa Building, 2-33-12 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
www.jetsetrecords.net
MEADOW BY FLAMINGO SHIMOKITAZAWA
Rich earth tones coat the walls of this vintage shop, setting the scene for the quintessentially Tokyo-style vintage selection here. If you can’t make it to the shop, check out their Instagram to see this distinctive approach to vintage.
Shimokitazawa COO Building A, 2-26-14 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @meadow_by_flamingo
MÉL
With a focus on mainly French vintage clothing from the 1830s to the early 1900s, the selection here hits the mark for those who love Victorian styles.
2F 2-26-7 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku TOKYO
mel-antique.tumblr.com
NEW YORK JOE EXCHANGE
New York Joe Exchange’s location in what was once a public bathhouse is a charming backdrop for their vintage selection. (The store’s name is an Anglicized pun on nyuyokujo, a Japanese term for “bathhouse.”)
3-26-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
newyorkjoeexchange.com
VELVET
Created by a former fashion magazine editor, Velvet offers a sophisticated selection of vintage pieces in a stylish setting. The store focuses on men’s clothing, but counts many women among its clientele, too.
1F Suzuran Building 3-26-3, Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
velvet.pw
KOENJI
KITAKORE BUILDINGHAYATOCHIRI
This spot is for those who want to know more about Tokyo’s underground scene. The chaotic state of everything here will no doubt overwhelm even the most intrepid visitors.
3-4-11 Koenji Kita, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
hayatochiri.thebase.in
GARTER
A creative space that exhibits the work of up-and-coming designers and artists. We are always amazed by the global approach the gallery takes to the art it displays.
3-4-13 Koenji Kita, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @gartertokyo
SMALL CHANGE
Full of vintage bought in the US and UK, this store is brimming with dresses and accessories for those with an active party lifestyle.
1&2 F 3-45-16 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
www.smallchange.jp
SOKKYOU
There is no sign indicating the location of this shop in a one-room back alley apartment, but that doesn’t stop vintage maniacs from gathering here to pore over the selection.
3-59-14 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
www.sokkyou.net/blog
This unique paper and vintage store is a treasure trove of inspiration and ideas. They sell mainly wrapping paper made from old paper and vintage picture postcards. It’s a moving experience to feel the fine textures that have been created over the years.
3-59-4 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
hachimakura.com
DEALERSHIP
Offering American vintage glassware from the 1940s to the 1980s, their Fire King collection is a masterpiece!
3-45-18 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
www.dealer-ship.com
ANTIQUE BOOKS SANKAKUYAMA
This spot will be a hit among people who like Japanese music, animation, design, and fashion from the 1970s to the nineties.
3-44-24 Koenji Kita, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
Twitter: @sankakuyama_b
R-ZA DOKUSHOKAN
House rules at this café and reading space dictate no talking with friends or on the phone. But there are ways around this rule if you stay and find you can’t resist. Figuring them out is part of the fun of coming here and makes the place really popular.
3-57-6 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
r-books.jugem.jp
TATOUAGE BY ZOOL
A long-established fixture of Koenji’s vintage scene, with a number of locations throughout the area. They carry women’s clothing dating from around one hundred years ago to the nineties.
1F 3-45-1 Koenji Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
zool.jp
SHINJUKU
APARTMENT HOTEL SHINJUKU
A unique, retro hotel situated in a residential area slightly away from the center of Shinjuku. Staying here is like visiting the studio of a young artist.
4-4-10 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
ap-shinjuku.com
BEAMS JAPAN
A select shop from Beams that showcases the charms of various regions of Japan through fashion, art, food, folk crafts and more. If you are looking for souvenirs, go here first.
3-32-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
www.beams.co.jp
KEISUKE KANDA SHINJUKU
Experience a little of Tokyo’s kawaii style and culture at the home of this irresistibly stylish Japanese brand.
3F Hokuto Daiichi Building, 2-14-3 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
www.keisukekanda.com
THE FOUR-EYED
Located in a spot known for its nightlife, this concept store is exciting from the moment you walk in and is the perfect place to see Japanese millennial street styles.
1F Paredoru Kabukicho, 2-8-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Instagram: @the_foureyed
TOKYO KAIHOKU
(see this page)
2F Isetan Shinjuku Store Main Building, 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
www.isetan.co.jp
Denim is absolutely essential as a fashion item. During the nineties in Japan, it was cool to wear Levi’s vintage jeans, especially among men, who continue to frequent vintage stores in Harajuku and Shibuya in search of the perfect jeans, paying prices that rival those of high-end designer brands with the rarest of vintage jeans fetching upwards of 1 million yen ($10,000).
Once women began following this trend for men’s jeans, more and more Japanese denim manufacturers started developing techniques for making distressed or vintage-looking jeans, and a number of brands in Japan and around the world began offering new styles and types of jeans. One of these was the skinny jean, which first caught on in America in the early 2000s but soon became popular among women in Japan because they showed off the beautiful silhouette of their legs. Skinny jeans firmly established denim as a key part of any fashionable Tokyo woman’s style. This demand prompted manufacturers to further refine their production techniques, making Japanese denim sought after worldwide.
Now, it’s widely accepted in Japan that brands who create jeans also shape the course of fashion. While Japanese brands that originated with denim, such as 45rpm and Edwin, enjoy a devoted following overseas, there are also many other denim brands in Tokyo. Among these, RED CARD is attracting a lot of attention among stylish women in Tokyo.
The denim label RED CARD specializes in jeans for women that are created, from the beginning, with real women’s bodies in mind. RED CARD’s stylish accessibility—in keeping with the ethos of the concept stores, such as Haunt, that carry their clothes—is the result of brand director Yuji Honzawa’s long stints at two of the major denim labels in Japan, Edwin and Levi’s, where he worked for ten and six years respectively. After consulting for denim direction in many Japanese apparel companies, such as Uniqlo, Honzawa used his expertise to create the ultimate jeans, establishing RED CARD in 2009.
“It may surprise you to learn,” he says when we ask him about his influences, “that when I was at university I majored in mechanics. So, looking at jeans as industrial products was how I began. I studied every aspect of denim—materials, accessories, methods, and machines—because I wanted to know everything about Levi’s, the original maker of jeans. And I think Red Card jeans reflect all of that. Stitches, tags, patterns . . . I can go on forever. Basically, they are jeans created by a middle-aged jeans fanatic,” he says, laughing.
The brand is popular among Tokyo’s most stylish women because of the denim’s quality, vintage-feel and the flattering, comfortable fit. As for sources of new design inspiration, Honzawa tells us: “The streets of Tokyo are the best place to look at fashion. No other city in the world has so many fashion boutiques and so many people dressed in such a wide range of fashionable styles.” Honzawa also takes inspiration from the women he dresses, too: “When I look at people on the streets and in vintage shops, I can grasp what kind of jeans women want and what kind of jeans I want to make next.”
redcard.tokyo
AKOMEYA TOKYO
Focusing on rice dishes, Akomeya Tokyo serves a range of Japanese dishes. The taste of the restaurant’s steamed rice is unforgettable.
2-2-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
www.akomeya.jp
GINZA WEST
This famous Ginza café is known for its influence on Japanese tea ceremony culture. The sheer abundance of delicious food, with each dish lovingly prepared and elegantly presented, is absolutely amazing.
7-3-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
www.ginza-west.co.jp
HIGASHIYA
Savor the taste of delicious Japanese cakes and sweets perfectly paired with tea and served in a modern setting that also respects tradition. The tearoom is a great place for people-watching in Ginza, too.
2F Pola Ginza Building, 1-7-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
www.higashiya.com
MINDBENDERS & CLASSICS
A vintage clothing store for those in the know, located in an old multipurpose building. The selection focuses on old-fashioned French everyday clothes and work clothes. The walls are also packed with art pieces and paintings with a high level of artistic value.
6F Nakadori Building, 2-6-8 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
mindbendersandclassics.com
PORTER CLASSIC GINZA PC KENDO PC SASHIKO
This brand, created and developed by the Yoshidas, a father and son team, has become tremendously popular in the world of men’s fashion in Japan. The brand’s designs are made with traditional craftsmanship and have been getting attention from clothing lovers all over the world.
2F 5-1 GINZA FIVE, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
porterclassic.com
EAST TOKYO
ANATOMICA
The store’s somewhat isolated location makes this a destination in its own right, but browsing the selection here is well worth the trek. When you’re done shopping, head upstairs to the second floor for delicious, rare wines and brasserie-style dishes at Fujimaru Asakusabashi.
Full of original pieces that capture the essence of both Paris and Tokyo, Anatomica clothes are based on classic designs, with particular attention paid to elegant silhouettes, quality materials, and the highest levels of craftsmanship. Although it caters to men more than women, women who like boyish French styles are among the brand’s hardcore fans.
S Building, 2-27-19 Higashi Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
anatomica.jp
FUJIMARU ASAKUSABASHI
This wine shop and diner frequented by Tokyo gourmands serves a selection of wines from around the world. Be sure to also try their own original wine produced in house.
S Building, 2F 2-27-19, Higashi Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
www.papilles.net
KAKIMORI INKSTAND BY KAKIMORI
Custom order original note cards, stationery, and ink in your favorite shapes and colors, or pick up gifts and souvenirs from the wide range of paper goods on offer here.
4-20-12 Kuramae, Taito-ku, Tokyo
www.kakimori.com
NAKATASHOTEN AMEYOKO
Hugely popular among men, this is the go-to spot for military styles. Stylish women are also often spotted here, too, and we recommend the “boy-size” flight jacket they sometimes carry.
6-4-10 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
www.nakatashoten.com
TOKYOBIKE RENTAL YANAKA
A bicycle brand with an ever-expanding global presence and loyal fan base. At this specialist rental location, you can rent a Tokyobike and explore East Tokyo in style.
4-2-39 Yanaka, Taito-ku Tokyo
tokyobike.com
CONTRIBUTOR WEB LINKS & SOCIAL MEDIA
Shoichi Aoki, STREET magazine
www.street-eo.com
Hiroshi Ashida, Vanitas (magazine)
adachipress.jp/vanitas
kotobatofuku (concept store in Kyoto)
kotobatofuku.tumblr.com
Adrian Hogan, illustrator
www.adrianhogan.com
Hanami Isogimi, The Senken
thesenken.com
Misha Janette,
Tokyo Fashion Diaries
mishajanette.com
www.tokyofashiondiaries.com
Ayana Miyamoto
Instagram: @catserval
Rei Shito
STYLE from TOKYO
reishito.com
Instagram: @reishito
Scott Schuman,
The Sartorialist
www.thesartorialist.com
Instagram: @thesartorialist
Kumiko Takano, ACROSS, PARCO Co. Ltd.
www.web-across.com
Shen Tanaka, HINT/OF/COLOR
www.shentanaka.com
Instagram: @shen_tanaka
Hitomi Nomura, MARTE
Instagram: @hitominomura
Yuki Fujisawa
yuki-fujisawa.com
Ebony Bizys, Hello Sandwich
hellosandwich.blogspot.jp
Time Out Tokyo
www.timeout.jp/tokyo
Akiko Aoki, AKIKOAOKI
www.akikoaoki.com
Olympia Le-Tan
www.olympialetan.com
Riona Nakagome, model
Instagram: @riona__n
Kako Osada, foodremedies
foodremedies.info
Chiori Yamamoto, Chioben
Instagram: @chiobento
Takyua Ebe, dancyu web
www.president.co.jp/dan
Akane Sasaki, fashion publicist
madder-madder.com
Hirofumi Kurino, United Arrows
www.united-arrows.co.jp
Masami Sato, Anatomica
Instagram: @anatomica_tokyo
TOKYO BRANDS WE RECOMMEND
AETA aeta.website
AKIRA NAKA akiranaka.com
BED j.w. FORD bedjudewillford.com
BODCO zozo.jp/brand/bodco
CHACOLI chacoli.jp
CINOH cinoh.jp
COMOLI comoli.jp
DOUBLET doublet-jp.com
FACETASM www.facetasm.jp
FUMIKA_UCHIDA fumika-uchida.com
HATORA hatroid.com
ITHELICY ithelicy.com
JONNLYNX jonnlynx.jp
LOKITHO lokitho.com
MAIKO TAKEDA maikotakeda.com
MEGANE AND ME www.meganeandme.com
MOTHER motherdenim.com
NAIFE naife.tokyo
Noriko Nakazato norikonakazato.com
SEMOH semoh.byhiroyukiueyama.com
SINA SUIEN sina1986.com
SULVAM sulvam.com
YUIMA NAKAZATO yuimanakazato.com
VTOPIA www.vtopia.com
WRITTENAFTERWARDS writtenafterwards.com/home
