Summer in Japan is brutal. It can be anything from 32 degrees C up to 40 degrees C on any day and there is rain and extreme humidity and life gets pretty slow and sweaty. But then there's also the festivals, the dancing, the taiko drums, the Matsuri food and the red lanterns bobbing in the hot evening breeze. It kind of makes up for it... I've put together some Summer-inspired pieces from the Biku collections, pieces you can comfortably wear in the summer heat. SHOP SUMMER-INSPIRED PIECES
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Calling all Japanophiles! We've created a selection of products created by Japan-based makers to please any Japan lover. Art, stationery, fabric items, jewellery, garden supplies and even a craft pattern are all included in this handy guide. 1. ART BY ERICA WARD ILLUSTRATION
2. SUBSCRIPTION STATIONERY BY NEKO NEKO POST
Neko Neko Post creates packages filled with an assortment of beautiful hand-chosen Japanese stationery and delivers it to your doorstep monthly. Neko Neko Post was created to share the best parts of Japanese stationery with the world. The packages are filled with greeting cards, postcards and stickers to inspire you to share some beautiful handwritten messages with your family and friends. A portion of all Neko Neko Post sales is donated to cat shelters in Japan. Website: www.nekonekopost.com IG: www.instagram.com/nekonekopost/ 3. KIMONO JEWELLERY BY BIKUDESIGNS
If bright, bold, cheerful and colourful is your thing, look no further than Bikudesigns' handmade vintage kimono accessories. Victoria incorporates personally-sourced Japanese textiles and other found objects into her one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces. Comfortable, light and adaptable pieces, perfect for your Christmas party wardrobe. https://www.bikudesigns.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/ 4. ART BY FROM JUJU WITH LOVE
Juliette Fortuit Innocenti is a creator who has lived in Tokyo since 2013. A former Chanel visual merchandiser from Paris, she has now turned her hand to creating one-of-a-kind art pieces with a Japanese flair. FB: https://m.facebook.com/FromJujuWithLove/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/fromjujuwithlove/?hl=fr 5. EMBROIDERY PATTERN FROM THREE HOUSES DESIGNS
6. QUILLED PAPER FUJI FROM L ROSE STUDIOS
7. CHRISTMAS CARDS FROM KIMONO KOMONO DESIGNS
8. FUJI PLANTERS BY SHIZEN NATURA
9. KIMONO TRINKET BOWL BY KOTTO KIMONO
10. KIMONO POUCHES BY TABI TABI YA
BONUS IDEA! PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY IN JAPAN ONLINE EXPERIENCE FROM ARIGATO JAPAN
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In the old days it would be aftershave, soap-on-a-rope, boring socks...poor dads all over the world! With this in mind we've curated a selection of gifts for the men in your life to avoid that last dash for the aftershave gift sets aisle (but, seriously, women would love these gifts too). Happy browsing. 1. TABI SOCKS FROM TABI TABI YA
2. KIMONO CUFFLINKS FROM BIKUDESIGNS
3. DIORAMA BY FROM JUJU WITH LOVE
Juliette Fortuit Innocenti is a creator who has lived in Tokyo since 2013. A former Chanel visual merchandiser from Paris, she has now turned her hand to creating one-of-a-kind art pieces with a Japanese pop culture flair. FB: https://m.facebook.com/FromJujuWithLove/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/fromjujuwithlove/ 4. FACE MASKS FROM KIMONO KOMONO DESIGNS
5. GARDENING KIT FROM SHIZEN NATURA
The perfect gift for your favorite green thumb or aspiring gardener, this beautifully hand painted set includes everything one needs to start or grow a plant collection. Abstract brushstrokes in various shades of green, subtle metallic accents, and random clusters of blush pink dots come together to form the perfect setting for any plant. The set includes two hand painted pots in different sizes, a hand painted trowel, a hand painted propagation station with holes for three glass tubes, and three liters of high quality, organic potting soil. Pots are sealed against UV and water damage, and can be used either indoors or outdoors. https://www.instagram.com/shizen.natura/ 6. ONLINE COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE FROM ARIGATO JAPAN
https://arigatojapan.co.jp/ IG:https://www.instagram.com/arigatojapan T: https://twitter.com/Japanfoodtour FB: https://www.facebook.com/arigatojapanfoodtours P: https://www.pinterest.jp/ArigatoJapanFoodTours/ 7. COCKTAIL TRAY FROM CHIMPS TEA PARTY
8. SUBSCRIPTION STATIONERY FROM NEKO NEKO POST
9. COOKING CLASS AT BEST LIVING JAPAN STUDIO
10. FRAMED ORIGAMI BY HANAWA ORIGAMI
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Run a hot bath, sprinkle in some bath salts, scrape up your hair, slap on a face mask, then head for a soak armed with a good book and a sparkling beverage of your choice. Afterwards, snuggle up on your sofa in the flickering candlelight while catching up on your fave show. Actually. Living. The. Dream. Enjoy this selection of snuggly products to snag for your loved ones this holiday season. Did we miss anything? 1. BLANKETS BY TURQUOISE PORT
These versatile cotton blankets have so many uses – add texture and colour to your space: protect items of furniture; decorate a bed, sofa or armchair; use them to snuggle up on colder evenings. Blankets and cushions are the finishing touches that make your place feel homely and unique and can be moved from room to room to introduce colour and texture. www.turquoiseport.com fb:www.facebook.com/TurquoisePort insta:www.instagram.com/turquoiseport 2. BATH SALTS BY SHIZEN NATURA
3. SHAWL BY ITOMAKIMAKI
From her studio in Nara, Japan, Elizabeth O'Brien creates free-style, handwoven, Saori style shawls, scarves, cowls, curtains, pillows, wall art, rugs and more. Items are made with natural fibers (plant and/or animal), and custom designed orders aer welcome. https://itomakimaki.handcrafted.jp/ IG: www.instagram.com/itomakimaki_/ 4. PET BEDS BY SWEET DREAM PET BASKETS
Cats and dogs love to cuddle up in a handmade Sweet Dream Basket! It is such a happiness to watch your pet sleep in one of our special Holiday Baskets we created for you and your pet! You can use Sweet Dream Baskets as a gift, decor and storage item, as they are beautiful accessories for your house too! Please contact us for custom orders and inquiries! www.sweetdreambaskets.com ETSY:https://www.etsy.com/shop/SweetyDreamPets IG:https://www.instagram.com/sweet_dream_pet_baskets/ 5. CANDLES WITH A CAUSE BY DD'S DEN
6. KIMONO HEADBANDS BY BIKUDESIGNS
THE perfect accessory for a night of pampering! Pop on your headband, then your face mask and have a long soak in the bath before relaxing with a glass of something yummy in front of your fave TV show. Or gift this to someone else so they have can a perfect night instead! www.bikudesigns.com IG: www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/ FB: www.facebook.com/bikudesigns/ 7. RETRO CUSHIONS BY CHIMPS TEA PARTY
Flower power double sided cushions inspired by kitsch 1960's caravan curtains. Both sides have a bold floral print made using paper collage. One side is black, and one side is pink so you can flip it over when you fancy a change! Shop here: https://www.chimpsteaparty.com/products/pre-order-flower-power-cushion IG: https://www.instagram.com/chimpsteaparty/ 8. CRAFT WHILE YOU SNUGGLE FROM THREE HOUSES DESIGNS
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One of the benefits of getting ready early for the Christmas season is that you can have a great time in the festive season yourself. No rushing around the shops at the last minute buying ill-considered gifts, no stress, just a relaxed holiday season. This selection of Christmas themed gifts will get you ready early for the holidays. 1. CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS FROM KATIE SO CRAFTY
2. KIMONO CHRISTMAS CARDS BY BIKUDESIGNS
3. CHRISTMAS TEA TOWELS BY TOKYO DESSERTS
vGet your kitchen holiday-ready! Luxurious full-sized cotton tea towels with unique holiday designs to bring Christmas cheer to your kitchen. SHOP: https://tokyodesserts.blogspot.com/p/online-shop.html FB: https://www.facebook.com/TokyoDesserts IG: https://www.instagram.com/katsmats/ 4. KIMONO CHRISTMAS BAUBLES BY KIMONO KOMONO DESIGNS
Add a touch of japanese flair to your Christmas tree this year with Jelena Uechi's Kimekomi Christmas tree baubles. The decorations are handmade using silk kimono fabrics and come in a set of four. FB: http://www.facebook.com/Kimonokomonodesigns ETSY: www.kimonokomonodesigns.etsy.com IG: www.instagram.com/kimonokomonodesigns 5. CHRISTMAS CARDS BY ERICA WARD ILLUSTRATION
A bright Christmas greeting from Japan! The gentle smile of a maiko is illuminated by the glow of tiny holiday lights, and the fragrance of pine, cinnamon, and clove seems to emanate from this pen and watercolor design that combines holiday motifs and Kyoto style. Blank inside, white envelope included. Sold single, and in sets of three, five, and ten. A4 prints of this design are also available (195kg Vent Nouveau Paper). https://ericawardart.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/erica.ward.illustration/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/ericawardart Twitter: https://twitter.com/ericaeward 6. PERSONALISED KIMONO DECORATIONS BY BIKUDESIGNS
Handmade decorations, personalised with your name and year on the reverse. Made from personally-source vintage kimono fabric and sustainably sourced laser-cut wood, these snowflakes would be a perfect keepsake for family members. Each decoration comes individually boxed in Bikudesigns branded packaging. Visit the Christmas Store: www.bikudesigns.com/christmas-store.html IG: www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/ FB: www.facebook.com/bikudesigns/ 7. CHRISTMAS CRACKER RUNNER FROM CHIMPS TEA PARTY
Fill your kitchen or dining room with joy and celebration this christmas with this statement table runner. Bright pink with a giant red christmas cracker design exploding with stars and confetti. https://www.chimpsteaparty.com/products/handmade-to-order-christmas-cracker-table-runner IG: https://www.instagram.com/chimpsteaparty/ 8. HOLIDAYS IN JAPAN ONLINE EXPERIENCE FROM ARIGATO JAPAN  Meet up with the Arigato Japan team for this online interactive experience to celebrate the winter season and learn all about the holidays in Japan! On this 1 hour and 15-minute online experience, we will share Christmas and New Year in Japan from a local’s perspective. You will get to hear about the history, culture, as well as stories, fun facts, trivia and even make your own Japanese-style holiday decoration together online. Arigot Japan virtual tours are fun, family-friendly and interactive. Great for ALL ages to experience together. https://arigatojapan.co.jp/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/arigatojapan T: https://twitter.com/Japanfoodtour FB: https://www.facebook.com/arigatojapanfoodtours P: https://www.pinterest.jp/ArigatoJapanFoodTours/ YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY...
Gifts for mum, sister, sister-in-law, Auntie, Grandma or your BFF...we've got you covered. Whether they're a party animal, a nature-lover or a home-body you'll be able to find something for everyone in this selection of gifts. Let's dive in... 1. BEADED PARTY CLUTCH FROM TURQUOISE PORT
2. JAPAN SOUVENIR BY HANAWA ORIGAMI
3. GARDENER'S DREAM BY SHIZEN NATURA
This Sunshine & Sakura set is the perfect gift for any plant lover. The beautiful blush pink base is neutral enough to complement just about any design scheme, and brushstrokes of white, yellow and clay pink provide subtle contrast. Each piece is finished with rose gold paint splatter that glistens in the sunlight, instantly elevating plant pots to interior design pieces. The set includes two hand painted pots in different sizes, a hand painted trowel, a hand painted propagation station with holes for three glass tubes, and three liters of high quality, organic potting soil. Pots are sealed against UV and water damage, and can be used either indoors or outdoors. IG: www.instagram.com/shizen.natura/ 4. HAND WOVEN SHAWLS BY ITOMAKIMAKI
From her studio in Nara, Elizabeth O'Brien creates free-style, handwoven, Saori style shawls, scarves, cowls, curtains, pillows, wall art, rugs and more. Items are made with natural fibers (plant and/or animal), and custom designed pieces are welcome. https://itomakimaki.handcrafted.jp/ IG: www.instagram.com/itomakimaki_/ 5. CROCHET EARRINGS BY NURO CROCHET
Treat yourself with these micro-crochet floral earrings made from pure cotton lace thread. Pocket-friendly, Sustainable, and handmade in Nagoya Japan by Nuzrath Hameedha. Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NuroCrochets IG:www.instagram.com/nuro.flower.crochet FB: www.facebook.com/nurocrochets 6. VINTAGE KIMONO POUCH BY KIMONO KOMONO DESIGNS
Bright colored re-purposed vintage kimono fabric pouch by Jelena Uechi in Nagoya. This pouch is firm and sturdy and is suitable for make up, bank books, insurance cards and other bits and pieces. A fantastic way to organise the bits and bobs floating around the bottom of your handbag. FB: http://www.facebook.com/Kimonokomonodesigns Etsy: www.Kimonokomonodesigns.etsy.com IG: www.instagram.com/Kimonokomonodesigns 7. TREE OF LIFE DECORATION BY OFF ON A WHIM
Give a gift that brings a smile and warm feelings all year long. This Tree of Life decoration by Erinn LaMattery is handcrafted from copper wire and natural stones and is filled with the energy and peace Mother Nature brings to our lives. These unique gifts will never be forgotten and are a daily reminder of how much you love and are loved. BUY HERE: offonawhim.com/search?page=1&q=tree+of+life FB: facebook.com/offonawhim IG: instagram.com/offonawhim 8. THE GIFT OF LEARNING FROM BEST LIVING JAPAN
9. UNIQUE NECKLACE FROM RISING MOON CRYSTALS
Blue goldstone point, adorned with a genuine moonstone from Jaipur India and paired with an ornate moon. This pendant is provided with a quality stainless steel chain. Stainless steel is kind to skin, extra strong and non-tarnish. Jezebel Ono is a maker based in Chiba, Japan. www.risingmooncrystals.com/ 10. HAORI JACKET FROM TABI TABI YA
11. KIMONO EARRINGS BY BIKUDESIGNS
Handmade vintage kimono accessories made in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo by Victoria Close. Every piece is one-of-a-kind and a perfect reminder of Japan. www.bikudesigns.com IG: www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/ FB: www.facebook.com/bikudesigns/ 12. GREEN TEA EXPERIENCE FROM ARIGATO JAPAN
BONUS IDEA: PREMIUM JEWELLERY BY ATELIER SHINJI GINZA
If you are looking for that something special, look no further than uniquely Japanese handcrafted jewelry from family-run Tokyo-based Atelier Shinji Ginza. Contemporary, seasonal and traditional Japanese motifs make up most of the collection, together with timeless nature motifs inspired by classic Art Nouveau styles. IG: www.instagram.com/atelier_shinji_ginza/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/atelier.shinji.ginza Web (and online store): http://www.ateliershinji.com YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY...
To help you find the perfect holiday gift for lovers of all things interiors, we created a list of holiday gift ideas that any home lover would be thrilled to receive. From hand-forged Japanese knives to gorgeous scented candles, there's sure to be something on our list to make your friends and family smile this holiday season. 1. HANDMADE KNIVES FROM SHIMANE FROM JIKUU
2. SCREEN PRINTED PLANT BAGS FROM INK & BEAR
3. ETHICAL SOY CANDLES FROM DD'S DEN
4. SUSHI MAGNETS FROM L ROSE STUDIO
5. ORIGAMI FROM HANAWA
6. VINTAGE KIMONO DECORATIONS FROM BIKUDESIGNS
Victoria Close is the founder of the vintage kimono jewellery brand, Bikudesigns. Victoria is a long-term resident of Tokyo and has recently added some new holiday items to her jewellery collection. www.bikudesigns.com IG: www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/ FB: www.facebook.com/bikudesigns/ 7. ORIGINAL ART CREATED BY FROM JUJU WITH LOVE
8. GREEN FINGERED GIFTS FROM SHIZEN NATURA
9. SOY CANDLES FROM TURQUOISE PORT
10. RECYCLED OBI CUSHIONS FROM TABI TABI YA
BONUS GIFT IDEA: WALL HANGING FROM ITOMAKIMAKI
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What is a FUKUBUKURO? Traditionally in Japan at New Year businesses bundle up their products and sell them in a 'lucky bag' (the kanji 福袋 (fukubukuro) literally means happy bag). The 'happy' part comes in as you can't actually see what's in the bag before you buy. Fun right? Oh, and there are bargains to be had too, as long as you are buying from places you love. Is the Biku Fukubukuro like a traditional lucky bag? Yes...and also no. YES: There are a number of items at a discount bundle price presented in an actual bag! NO: Before you buy you know what products are included in the bag and the savings you'll make. There are no end-of-line, random items in the bags. Everything is from current stock or made especially for the bags. This year you can even request certain colours to be included in the bag. So, how do I grab one? Click the link here and you can see what's available. Make sure to request your colours before you buy though, otherwise you'll receive a random selection. Important info for UK customers. Biku will cease shipping to the UK in 2021 due to changes in VAT after Brexit. The final day for UK purchases is Monday December 28th 2020. I hope to find a work around in the future, but for the time being it will be closed at the end of 2020. When does the offer close? Monday 4th January 2021 at midnight. UK Fukubukuro will be shipped by 30th December, rest of the world and Japan shipping is on Tuesday 5th January 2021.
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  Tell us about your work. I create Japan-inspired artworks of pen and watercolor. I sell original artworks at gallery exhibitions and also offer my designs as prints, postcards, illustration books, and more. Does your artwork have a story? My illustrations express intersections. Intersections of reality and fantasy, of familiar and unfamiliar, and intersections of identity. As a foreigner living in Japan there can be a lot of focus placed on cultural identity, and the concept of “insider” versus “outsider.” Art is one place where there are no limits and we don’t have to be one thing or another. By creating a space between reality and imagination, between “inside” and “outside,” I feel I’ve found a space where I don’t have to define who I am. It is a place where viewers can find their own world as well and where everyone is welcome.  Do you have a business philosophy? I believe that it is important to create from the heart. Both the artist and the viewer can feel a good vibe from artwork that is genuine. I will only put out a design that I’ve really put my love into and I have grown to trust that that energy will be conveyed naturally to my patrons as well. As an individual creating art and running a business I also value keeping a personal touch with customers. I always add a handwritten note to my webstore orders, to let my customers know it really is me every time at the other end of their order and that I am filled with personal gratitude for their support. How did you come up with the idea for your business? Art has always been something I’ve loved to do, so creating artwork has never been a question. Since moving to Tokyo I became aware of a wide variety of amazing opportunities and venues to connect with other artists, showcase art, and find new fans. As I had the chance to connect with more people I was motivated and encouraged to widen the variety of offerings using my designs, such as making smaller printed merchandise that was more accessible, especially for younger patrons. Now I have a range of merchandise for tabling events and webstore sales, and also continue to offer original artworks at galleries.  What sets your artwork apart from others? My subject matter and art style fit into that “in between” space. My experience living in Japan has evolved both my identity and my art style and viewers seem to pick up on that. Both Japanese and non-Japanese patrons find my designs unique, yet oddly relatable. I love thinking that how I express my imagination and experience through artwork might help open up more flexibility for everyone who feels like they are in an “in between” space living in Tokyo. I think original art is often forgotten as an option for gifts or personal memories. I hope that I can remind people of the option and help them find something special and unique.  Find out more about Erica Ward Illustration Click the “Shop” link from the menu on my website to see my available products. For inquiries about illustration or commission artworks, feel free to drop me a message in the “Contact” section or on social media. To hear about upcoming exhibitions, events, and to peruse my artwork, feel free to follow me on Instagram and Facebook. Website Instagram Facebook You might also enjoy...
We've all been there... searching the internet blindly to find that special gift for an important birthday, a special thank you, a pick-me-up for a friend, a graduation, Mothers' Day, Fathers' day...the list really goes on. We spend hours and hours scrolling for that 'special something'. But why do we feel the need to gift that special something in the first place? 1. It shows the receiver that we know them. 2. It shows them we care enough to go the extra mile to find something they'll love. 3. It demonstrates our good taste. 4. We want the receiver to feel unique and valued. 5. We want to support small businesses and all they stand for. 6. We want to shop sustainably, buying items from brands that are not mass-produced. 7. We want a story. Of the hands who made it, the history, where the idea came from. As a maker, I see the work that artisans put into their work and support them as much as I can. I appreciate that they do the same in return for my business. |
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I'm Victoria, the founder, designer and creator at Bikudesigns, a vintage kimono accessories brand in Tokyo, Japan. Categories
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