DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
2025.09.25
Experience authentic skate culture in Harajuku:
Nearest Station
In Harajuku, where countless fashion shops line the streets, the skate shop “HESHDAWGZ” has upheld its unchanging style in the same location for 20 years. The owner, Yosuke Ishii—nicknamed “CB”—was deeply influenced by San Francisco skate brands. The shop offers a diverse lineup of items related to skateboarding, from decks and gear to fashion, art, and lifestyle goods
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“HESHDAWGZ” was opened in 2005 along Cat Street by CB, who had fallen in love with skateboarding and San Francisco. The shop’s name is a coined word combining “HESH,” referring to skaters who prefer concrete parks, and “DAWGZ,” meaning friends or dogs. The store is located on the second floor of a building near Harajuku-dori, marked by a flag displaying the logos of the brands it carries on the Cat Street side
Walking along Cat Street, the flag with brand logos comes into view. Following it up to the second floor of the building, you’ll arrive at “HESHDAWGZ”
The skate decks on display range from highly artistic designs to those with political messages. Some are even one-of-a-kind pieces, enjoyable simply to look at
The shop carries not only skate decks but also fashion items, gear, art, and even lifestyle goods, creating a space where visitors can truly feel skate culture.
When it first opened, the store mainly carried clothing and gear from San Francisco skate brands, which were still rare in Japan at the time. Today, the shop also features art and lifestyle goods deeply tied to skate culture. With many one-of-a-kind pieces, it creates a unique space where skateboarding and art merge.
The walls of the shop are lined with autographs from professional skaters and international artists who have visited. The shop’s logo was designed by Jim Phillips, the artist behind the iconic Screaming Hand of the skate brand “SANTA CRUZ.” This symbolizes “HESHDAWGZ” as a true transmitter of authentic skate culture
The shop logo was created by Jim Phillips, famed for the Screaming Hand. In the design, a skater rides above the shop’s name, giving it a playful touch
On the walls are signatures from global artists and skaters such as Neck Face and REMIO, left when they visited the shop
The shop also displays skate-related artworks beloved by CB, including valuable works by renowned artists such as Alexis Ross and Mark Gonzales
The store’s apparel lineup spans from classic San Francisco brands like “ANTI HERO,” “THRASHER,” and “INDEPENDENT” to labels popular in fashion and street culture such as “Fucking Awesome,” “VIOLET,” and “HOCKEY.” Original shop items are also popular, with graphics provided by artists deeply connected to skate culture.
The skate deck selection is also extensive, including “STRANGELOVE,” founded by artist Sean Cliver, for which “HESHDAWGZ” carries the largest selection in Japan. With designs worthy of being displayed as art, these decks are highly valued not only by core skaters but also by art fans
“ANTI HERO,” founded in 1995 by Julien Stranger and others. T-shirts printed with photos of team skaters are iconic bestsellers. 6,380 yen each
T-shirts from the San Francisco skate company “DLX,” which manages brands such as “ANTI HERO” and “REAL.” Simple yet diverse designs are available. 5,720 yen each
A jacket from “VIOLET,” a brand launched in New York in 2021 by filmmaker William Strobeck. The bold peace mark on the back is striking. 24,200 yen
A reissue of the legendary skate shoe released in 1994 by “ETNIES.” The signature model of skateboarding legend Sal Barbier. 15,400 yen
A tote bag from “Park Life,” a San Francisco select shop selling art and goods. Designed by artist Barry McGee. 9,900 yen
Shop-original items that are also highly popular with international visitors. The hoodie features artwork by Jim Phillips, while the cap and drawstring bag carry graphics by skater and artist Russ Pope. Hoodie 16,500 yen, cap 5,940 yen.
The drawstring bag—an item unique to skaters—is especially practical and easy to use. Each 6,930 yen
A skate deck by Sean Cliver, the artist behind “STRANGELOVE.” Designed with artistic value in mind. 19,800 yen each
Owner CB became fascinated with skateboarding in his twenties and studied abroad in San Francisco. Enchanted by the city’s atmosphere and culture, he even launched skate teams and brands during his stay. That passion remains unchanged today and is reflected in the store itself. The fact that the shop has continued for 20 years in Harajuku is thanks to that unwavering love and dedication. In October 2024, a 20th-anniversary event is planned. For the latest information, check Instagram. Be sure to experience the one-of-a-kind “San Francisco vibe” that can only be felt in Harajuku
Owner CB. He also kindly assists beginners, so customers can feel at ease consulting him about decks and gear.
The information contained this article was correct as of 09/25/2025 (the time of publication)
