A Store Showcasing Handcrafted Works from Japan and Around the World, Rooted in Daily Life

CRAFT SHOP GINZA TAKUMI

Official Site
address
8-4-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Nearest Station
Shimbashi station 5 min. walk
URL
http://www.ginza-takumi.co.jp/
Payment Information
Cash, QR code payment (Paypay only), credit cards (VISA, MASTER, Diners Club, American Express, JCB, UnionPay), etc.
SNS

Ginza Takumi carries on the philosophy of Yanagi Sōetsu, the founder of the Mingei (folk craft) movement. The store offers a wide selection of newly crafted artisanal goods from across Japan. It is a space reminiscent of a Mingei museum, where visitors can encounter objects that embody the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and Japanese aesthetics.

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A Store Brimming with Handcrafted Items from Japan and Beyond

The crafts introduced at Ginza Takumi are all genuine items that have been discovered by Takumi's unique aesthetic eye. The shelves are filled with everyday items created by craftspeople from all over Japan, including ceramics, lacquerware, woodwork, glass, textiles, local toys, metalwork, woven baskets, and more. Although some items are created by artists, visitors can also pick up domestic and foreign crafts selected based on the idea that beauty resides in items created by nameless artisans for everyday use.

The store is packed with a variety of handcrafted goods, including ceramics, glassware, bamboo crafts, and brooms.

Preserving Japanese Mingei for Over 90 Years

Founded in 1933 (Shōwa 8), Ginza Takumi has its roots in the Mingei movement, led by the art critic and religious philosopher Yanagi Sōetsu. Yanagi recognized the beauty of Japan’s folk crafts and sought to introduce them to a wider audience. His vision extended to supporting artisans and ensuring that their craft would be preserved for future generations. To realize this goal, he established a space to showcase and sell newly crafted folk art. The first store, Tottori Takumi Craft Shop, opened in Tottori, followed by a branch in Ginza. For over 90 years, Ginza Takumi has fostered relationships with artisans across Japan, carefully selecting and presenting high-quality crafts while sharing their cultural significance with the world.

A Place to Discover Japan’s Cultural Heritage and the Stories of Its Artisans

Today, Ginza Takumi is led by its 10th-generation owner, Jun Nozaki. The store’s staff work closely with artisans across Japan, emphasizing a philosophy of growing the store alongside the craftsmen. Nozaki states, "Our mission is to take root in Ginza, introduce authentic craftsmanship, and convey the stories behind each artisan’s work to our customers." True to this vision, Ginza Takumi is a place where visitors can experience the beauty of objects shaped by Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.

The store’s exterior features an eye-catching woodblock print-style sign. The storefront is lined with products, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.

A tableware series by Kazuki Kawai, a ceramic artist continuing the legacy of Kanjirō Kawai, one of Ginza Takumi’sfounders. Ceramics by Kazuki Kawai From 1,650 yen (varies by size and type)

Designed by Keisuke Serizawa, a designated Living National Treasure known for his kataezome (stencil dyeing) techniques. Some designs are also used in Ginza Takumi’s signature wrapping paper, making these hand towels a popular item. Tenugui (Hand Towels) 880 yen each

Card cases made from traditional washi paper, durable enough for daily use. They can also be used as business card holders and feature beautiful Japanese patterns. Washi Business Card Holders 2,200 yen each

Photo: Kawaharazaki Nobuki / Edit&Text: Tajima Ryo(DMRT)

The information contained this article was correct as of 03/20/2025 (the time of publication)