Retail

Celebrated stationery, incense and calligraphy supplies shop Kyukyodo has been a fixture in Kyoto since 1663. Under the leadership of twelfth-generation president Naohisa Kumagai, the company’s main shop on Teramachi Street was rebuilt in 2020. Tokyo-based architect Hiroshi Naito brought his expertise in designing wooden buildings to the project, creating a warm atmosphere to match the charming lineup of more than 1,000 products. Calligraphy brushes, ink stones, notebooks and fans, many brought to life in the hands of traditional artisans, attract a loyal following. The silkscreen-printed postcards are also among the bestselling products, their stylised depictions of classic landscapes and fleeting moments are perfect for sending a seasonal greeting.

520 Shimohonnojimae-cho, Teramachi Aneya-koji, Nakagyo-ku
075-231-0510
kyukyodo.co.jp

Located in a former timberhouse on the city’s northern outskirts, Hakimono Sekizuka is a destination shop specialising in zouri (traditional Japanese sandals). After six years of training and working with a traditional zouri maker, Shinji Sekizuka opened his shop-cum-workshop in 2020, opting for a quiet residential area in close proximity to nature. The craftsman provides a made-to-order service, allowing customers to try samples – both modern and traditional – and select a hanao strap and platform to match their needs. Measurements are taken and about two months later the handmade pair is complete. Made with traditional skills and modern aesthetics, Sekizuka’s sandals draw a mix of men and women to the shop, which also sells a concise selection of clothes and accessories.

642-19 Iwakura Hanazono-cho, Sakyo-ku, 606-0024
hakimonosekizuka.com

Shinzaburo Ichizawa’s family has been making durable canvas bags since 1905. Today, Ichizawa sells a colourful array of bags and heavy-duty aprons. The company’s employees cut, stamp, sew and assemble every canvas item by hand, some still using 80-year-old Singer sewing machines in the process. “We have the skills to repair or remake any of our bags from decades ago because we still use the same old methods,” says Ichizawa. These last for years and only get better with age.

Keiko Yoshimura’s vintage Japanese furniture shop focuses on wooden pieces from the Meiji and early Showa periods (late 19th to mid-20th century). So much wood in such a small space can make a place seem gloomy but not here, where pieces range from rosewood dressers and pine wardrobes to cherry-wood side tables and coffee tables. Incidentally, “Yahho” is a cute and informal “Hi” among teenage Japanese girls.