Source: https://top-list.co/top-best-japanese-shops-in-the-uk-v9874.html
Muji
Muji is a Japanese retail company that offers a wide range of household and consumer goods, including clothing, furniture, stationery, and food. The company first entered the UK market in 1991 and has since established a strong presence, with multiple stores located throughout the country.
Unlike many other companies on this list, a lot of the merchandise isn’t manufactured in Japan (although there is a good number); however, the products that are available and the shop layout feel very Japanese with their focus on a minimalist style.
Muji was built on the philosophy of ‘non-branded quality goods’, which means that not a single item in the store has a logo or brand name stamped into it. This is alongside its conscious decision to streamline its packaging to deliver on their ethos of simplicity.
In addition to its product lineup, Muji has also launched several initiatives in the UK that reflect its commitment to sustainability. This includes the Muji Recycle initiative, which encourages customers to bring in old Muji products to be recycled or donated to charity, as well as the Muji Labo line, which features clothing made from recycled materials.
Overall, Muji has established itself as a popular and reliable retailer of household and consumer goods in the UK, offering quality products at affordable prices.
Founded: 1989
Address: 157 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6SU, UK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muji_global/ (2.8B)
Website: https://www.muji.eu/
Image by muji_global via instagram.com
Uniqlo
Uniqlo is one of the Best Unique Japanese Shops in the UK. Ithas the most outlets in the UK of all the Japanese apparel stores on this list, with a total of 15; it is also the most affordable and accessible for everyday usage when compared to the others. Uniqlo has a strong presence in the United Kingdom, with many outlets in key cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The brand first entered the UK market in 2001 and has since grown to offer a diverse assortment of clothes and accessories for men, women, and children.
Uniqlo occupies a middle-of-the-road position in terms of creating well-designed apparel without being expensive, but also without being so cheap as to raise suspicion. There is a vast range of designs to pick from, rivaling many other high street companies more recognized to UK buyers. What makes Uniqlo stand out is that it is a firm that thrives on collaboration.
You’ll find a wide variety of shirts with Marvel, Disney, and popular gaming characters, which isn’t surprising, but you’ll also find shirts featuring the designs of artists and painters like Andy Warhol and Hokusai, among others.
In addition to its clothing line, Uniqlo has also collaborated with several UK-based designers and artists to create unique and limited-edition collections. These collaborations have included partnerships with designers such as J.W. Anderson and Ines de la Fressange, as well as artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Keith Haring.
Founded: 1974
Address: 311 Oxford Street, London, W1C 2HP
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uniqlo/ (2.4B)
Website: https://www.uniqlo.com/eu/en/home
Image by uniqlo via instagram.com
Yohji Yamamoto
Yohji Yamamoto is a Japanese fashion designer who is known for his avant-garde and experimental designs. He was born in Tokyo in 1943 and started his fashion career in the 1970s.
Yohji Yamamoto’s designs focus exclusively on darker, almost monochrome colors, with a unique flair for drapey and layered looks. There is almost a gothic feel to a lot of Yohji’s collections, one of which is named as such. The store itself is in total contrast, with a bright, open, and inviting feel; look out for it near Mayfair.
Yamamoto has won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 1994 and the Master of Design award by Fashion Group International in 2000.
In addition to his eponymous fashion line, Yamamoto has collaborated with a number of brands over the years, including Adidas, Hermès, and Mikimoto. He has also designed costumes for several theater productions and films.
Today, Yohji Yamamoto is considered one of the most influential and respected fashion designers in the world, known for his unique vision and uncompromising approach to design.
Founded: 1977
Address: 14-15 Conduit St., London W1S 2XJ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yohjiyamamotoofficial/?hl=vi (1B)
Website: https://www.yohjiyamamoto.co.jp/yy/
Image by yohjiyamamotoofficial via instagram.com
Issey Miyake
Issey Miyake is a Japanese fashion designer known for his innovative designs, use of technology, and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. He founded his eponymous brand, Issey Miyake, in 1970 and has since become internationally recognized for his unique approach to fashion.
Chiefly a women’s clothing designer, he has dedicated stores located in Mayfair in London, the buildings of which are as much part of the brand as the clothes themselves with their minimalist approach. Talking of brands, Issey Miyake has, over the years, released numerous sub-brands under his name, each representing new ideas and design choices, including a men’s range.
Miyake’s designs often incorporate unconventional materials and techniques, such as pleating, folding, and heat bonding, resulting in distinctive and functional garments that reflect his philosophy of “A Piece of Cloth.” The brand has also collaborated with other designers, artists, and brands on various projects, including the famous Miyake Design Studio and the Pleats Please line.
Founded: 1971
Address: 10 and 33 Brook Street, Mayfair, London
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isseymiyakeofficial/ (317k)
Website: https://www.isseymiyake.com/#section1
Image by isseymiyakeofficial via instagram.com
Tabio
Tabio is a Japanese sock and hosiery brand that was founded in 1968. The company is known for its high-quality, stylish, and comfortable socks, tights, leggings, and other hosiery products.
If you’re someone desperately looking for a quality pair of socks, Tabio is the go-to place. Japanese craftsmen can often go beyond what is normally considered by many others; Tabio itself mentions that it pays close attention to stitching pressure and room temperature when producing its socks in Japan.
A take on the word ‘tabi,” meaning the traditional split Japanese sock, Tabio has a single presence in London, featuring every possible pattern and style you could wish for, as well as tights and other accessories.
Tabio’s socks and hosiery are made using innovative materials and techniques, such as organic cotton, merino wool, and seamless knitting, resulting in products that are both durable and comfortable. The brand also offers a wide range of designs and colors, from classic plain socks to bold patterns and prints.
Tabio has several stores in Japan as well as locations in other countries, including the UK, France, and the US. In addition to their physical stores, Tabio also has an online store where customers can browse and purchase their products.
Founded: 1968
Address: 51 Neal Street, London
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabio.jp/?hl=vi (44.7k)
Website: https://tabio.com/jp/
Image by tabio.jp via instagram.com
Native & co
Native & Co. is a design studio and retail store based in London, UK. The company was founded in 2014 by two friends, Taiwan-born Sharon Jo-Yun Hung and British-Japanese Chris Yoshiro Green, who shared a passion for traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Native & Co.’s products are inspired by the traditional crafts and materials of Japan and Taiwan, and the company works with skilled artisans in these countries to create its products. The company’s product lineup includes a range of homeware, tableware, and lifestyle products such as tea sets, ceramic vases, wooden spoons, and linen towels.
In addition to its retail store, Native & Co. also offers design and consulting services to businesses looking to incorporate traditional craftsmanship into their products and services. The company’s design philosophy is centered around creating products that are both functional and beautiful and that reflect the cultural heritage of the materials and techniques used to create them.
Founded: 2014
Address: 116 Kensington Park Rd., London W11 2PW, UK
Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/nativeandco/ (13.8K)
Website: https://www.nativeandco.com/
Image by nativeandco via instagram.com
Tokyo Bike
Tokyo Bike is a Japanese-inspired bicycle company that designs and manufactures minimalist, lightweight bikes for urban riding. The company was founded in 2002 in Tokyo, Japan, and has since expanded to several locations worldwide, including London, UK.
Tokyo Bike’s product lineup includes a range of bicycles as well as accessories such as bags, helmets, and lights. The company’s bikes are designed with a focus on simplicity and function and are known for their clean lines and lightweight frames.
In addition to its product lineup, Tokyo Bike also offers a variety of services, such as bike rentals, bike fittings, and repair and maintenance services. The company has also launched several initiatives in support of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled materials in its products and promoting cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Overall, Tokyo Bike has established itself as a popular and innovative brand in the world of urban cycling, offering a range of high-quality products and services that reflect the company’s commitment to simplicity, function, and sustainability.
Founded: 2002
Address: 87-89 Tabernacle St, London EC2A 4BA, UK
Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/tokyobike_au/ (7K)
Website: https://tokyobike.com/
Image by tokyobike_au via instagram.com
Artbox
Artbox is a Japanese gift store that has two locations in London, UK, as well as an online store. The store offers a wide range of cute and quirky items, including stationery, plush toys, accessories, homeware, and more.
Artbox’s product range includes many popular Japanese brands such as San-X, Sanrio, and Kamio and features characters such as Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Gudetama, and Sumikko Gurashi. The store also features items designed by independent artists and creators, providing a platform for new and emerging talent.
In addition to its product lineup, Artbox also hosts events and workshops that celebrate Japanese culture and creativity. These events often feature guest artists and creators and provide a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture in the heart of London.
Overall, Artbox has established itself as a popular destination for anyone looking for cute and quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and products in the UK. With its unique selection of items and commitment to supporting independent artists, Artbox continues to be a beloved part of London’s vibrant and diverse retail scene.
Founded: 2003
Address: 1a Airdrie Close, Islington, London N1 0DT
Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/artbox_amsterdam/ (4.9k)
Website: https://www.artbox.co.uk/
Image by artbox_amsterdam via instagram.com
Wagumi
Wagumi is a retail store based in London, UK, that specializes in contemporary Japanese design. The company was founded in 2016 by three friends who shared a love for Japanese art, craft, and design.
Wagumi’s product lineup includes a wide range of items such as homeware, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and stationery, all of which are designed and crafted by skilled artisans in Japan. The company is particularly known for its range of handcrafted ceramics, which are made using traditional techniques and feature unique and beautiful designs.
In addition to its retail store, Wagumi also hosts workshops and events that allow customers to learn more about Japanese craft and design. These events often feature guest speakers and artists from Japan and provide a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture in the heart of London.
Overall, Wagumi has established itself as a leading destination for Japanese design in the UK, offering a carefully curated selection of products that showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of Japanese art and design.
Founded: 2016
Address: 1.09, Oxo Tower Wharf Barge House Street, London SE1 9PH, UK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wagumi_london/ (1.8K)
Website: https://wagumi-j.com/
Image by wagumi_london via instagram.com
Japan Craft
Japan Craft is a UK-based online store that specializes in Japanese crafts and traditional Japanese goods. The company was founded in 2010 and has since established itself as a leading retailer of Japanese crafts in the UK.
Both are located in Camden, London; the first focuses on an assortment of traditional-style products such as puzzle boxes, lucky cats, and woodblock prints; the second is an homage to Japanese pop culture, which mostly relates to anime and manga.
Japan Craft’s product lineup includes a wide range of items such as ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, and paper crafts, all of which are made by skilled artisans in Japan. The company is particularly known for its range of Japanese fabrics, which are used in a variety of crafts such as quilting, embroidery, and patchwork.
In addition to its online store, Japan Craft also hosts workshops and events that allow customers to learn more about Japanese craft and culture. These events often feature guest speakers and artists from Japan and provide a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture in the UK.
Founded: 2010
Address: Unit 2, Market Hall, Camden Lock Place, Chalk Farm Road, London
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japan_craft/ (895)
Website: https://japancraft.co.uk/
Image by japan_craft via instagram.com
