2025.10.15
New Multi-Concept Store Creating the Next Wave of Harajuku Culture
“V.A.” is a concept store directed by music producer Hiroshi Fujiwara. The location was once home to the beloved café lounge “montoak,” a favorite among both locals and international visitors. Preserving much of its original exterior, the new store opened in December 2024, adding fresh content and creative essence. The name “V.A.” stands for “Various Artists,” symbolizing a new vision where fashion, culture, art, and people intersect.
“V.A.” stands on the former site of “montoak,” which closed in March 2022. The store is operated by the JUN Group, known for brands such as “bonjour records” and “ADAM ET ROPÉ.” The two-story space features an apparel-focused retail floor on the first level, and on the second, a bakery and café area called “VAT BAKERY.” The overall direction was led by music producer Hiroshi Fujiwara, architectural design by Nobuo Araki, and café supervision by spatial designer Uichi Yamamoto, who also produced the original “montoak.” Together, these professionals have created a refined and sophisticated atmosphere.
The first-floor retail area offers exclusive items available only here. The collection includes designs by Jun Takahashi of “UNDERCOVER” and Tetsu Nishiyama, director of “WTAPS,” “FPAR,” and “DESCENDANT,” as well as collaborations with L.L.Bean and agnès b. Each product blends playful creativity with refined design, making browsing itself an inspiring experience. The space also hosts occasional pop-up events, where special limited-edition items appear. As a hub where fashion and culture meet, “V.A.” constantly delivers new discoveries.
The café on the second floor retains the nostalgic atmosphere of “montoak,” blending classic elegance with a calm ambiance. The furniture was inherited from the long-standing café “Ace” in Kanda, which closed in 2024. The red-and-white contrast of the interior adds warmth and character. The menu includes original drinks unique to “V.A.,” such as the Anko Matcha Latte—a blend of sweet red bean paste (anko) and soft rice flour dumplings (shiratama)—and the beautifully layered Café Paris. Guests can relax at the window seats while enjoying the zelkova-lined streets of Omotesando.
Located next to the café on the second floor, “VAT BAKERY” takes its name from its baking method—baking the dough directly on a metal vat (batto) tray. Because everything is baked in-house, the inviting aroma of fresh bread fills the air throughout the day.
The showcase offers a variety of breads and pastries—from sweets like cinnamon sugar, custard cream, and raspberry-filled donuts to savory options featuring mentaiko (cod roe) sauce or Lyoner sausage. Freshly baked items can be taken to go or enjoyed in the café. As a new cultural hub in Harajuku, “V.A.” welcomes both locals and visitors from around the world.
V.A." is a place to relax in the Harajuku area, where new trends are born every day and new culture is disseminated, and is a must stop when you visit Harajuku.
Each floor has a different Instagram account.
The information in this article is current as of October 15, 2025 (at the time of publication)