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The beauty of Japanese design has won fans around the world but it takes great panache to translate it to large-scale projects. We sit down with architect Kengo Kuma in his Tokyo office to talk about the recently completed Japan National Stadium. It’s a building that has given a new lease of life to traditional craftsmanship and stimulated local economies.
In 1928 Maruni Wood Industry was born out of a fascination with the masterful carpentry in ancient shrines. Today its furniture is found in the Californian headquarters of Apple as well as airport lounges, galleries and restaurants around the world. We meet the company’s president to talk about the challenges of managing a family-run business.
To celebrate our book about Japan, we are presenting a film series that dives into the intriguing ecosystem that has preserved Japanese traditional skills over centuries. Meet the people who are future-proofing the age-old know-how.
Producers and retailers of luxury goods are waking up to the power of affluent seniors. We travel to Japan to meet the brands that are wise to the trend.
Japan's ancient capital may be full of hushed streets steeped in tradition but don't be fooled: there's plenty of forward-thinking retailers, innovative chefs and modernist architecture too. Our Kyoto guide will help you navigate your way around, as well as setting you off on your own path.
Available now at The Monocle Shop.
We travel to Japan’s least-populous prefecture, Tottori, where we explore one of its most-famous hotels.
This city of 13 million nurtures a balance of hi-tech efficiency and traditional neighbourhood values – and it’s a combination that wins the Japanese capital the top spot for a second year running. Our film focuses on its nocturnal delights, from sunset sports to the public-transport system, restaurants to late-night shopping. (You can also buy our Tokyo travel guide, available now at the Monocle Shop.)
Designed and manufactured in Japan but with true global wearability, the new Monocle Voyage collection has something for every occasion – and climate. Whether business or pleasure, near or far, these pieces are sure to both wear and travel well. Monocle invites you behind the scenes for a closer look. Available now at The Monocle Shop.
One of Japan's most venerable department stores, Isetan stocks everything you'll ever need. We hit the shop floor to find out the secret of its success.
Pull up a pew to discover classic Japanese bars with soothing lighting, knowledgeable and immaculately turned-out bar staff and loyal clientele.
We look back at the hushed world of the iconic Hotel Okura in Tokyo. Monocle Films was granted exclusive access to capture the gracious ways of this much-loved modernist gem just before it was demolished in 2015 to give way to a new iteration of the building.
With its drip-filter coffee, myriad craft shops and quality fishing scene, Hokkaido’s capital reels you in with a laidback lifestyle and a strong stroke of creativity.
In a city where choice is everywhere, The Monocle Travel Guide to Tokyo will navigate you through some of our favourite corners of this vast metropolis. Expect to fall in love with the dazzling food, sumptuous shopping and the most courteous residents you’ll ever meet. Published by Gestalten, The Monocle Travel Guide to Tokyo is available now at The Monocle Shop.
Marking the biggest shake-up in the survey’s nine-year history, Monocle’s 2015 Quality of Life survey awards Tokyo the number one city to call home. Rising from second place in 2014, the Japanese capital’s defining paradox – its heart-stopping size and concurrent feeling of peace and quiet – helped it claim the crown.
For many older people in Japan work isn’t just a way to keep busy but also a source of happiness and wellbeing. From a 71-year-old barber to a 100-year-old café owner, Monocle visits Japan’s elderly who are showing little sign of letting up.
As their cutesy, cartoon profiles – and fanbases – continue to soar, Japan's cuddly collection of corporate mascots has come to inhabit a central part of the nation's identity. We meet these celebrated creations and the people who bring them to life.
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In Monocle’s Property Survey special, we meet architects, developers and designers for a masterclass in building better cities and homes. Join us as we explore everything from car-free communities in the US and a creative-arts estate in Australia to a revamped neighbourhood in Bangkok. Plus: we meet the man in charge of the Panama Canal, check in with the global textile trade and take a seat at some of the world’s best late-night restaurants. It promises to be a whistle-stop tour – come along for the ride.
Catch one of Australia’s favourite chefs, Neil Perry, at his new Sydney pâtisserie, jet over to Hamburg to hear from renowned fashion designer Jil Sander and swing by Downtown Los Angeles to discover the best lunch spots, top shops and ornate boltholes with Monocle’s very own Concierge. In short, it’s an issue replete with opportunities, inspiration and fresh pathways to success. Pick up a copy of our latest issue today here.
In April, Monocle’s global leadership conference heads to Jakarta. Join Tyler Brûlé, Andrew Tuck and our senior editors for our fourth gathering of global business leaders. From valuable industry forecasts to practical advice on how to steer companies, this one-day conference promises inspiration and, most importantly, opportunities.
Find out more about the event and secure your ticket here.
Greece: The Monocle Handbook, is the latest in our series of vibrant country guides to inspire your next trip – or move. Looking to take the leap yourself? Buy your copy here.
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