These four Japanese design shops are must-visits for anyone interested in the country’s unique aesthetic and design philosophy: The Japan House, Wagumi, Pantechnicon, and Sway Gallery. Exploring these destinations conjure a sense of wonder to the uninitiated, and nostalgia to the rest.
The Japan House, Kensington and online
The Japan House in Kensington is a cultural center and shop that showcases the best of Japanese culture and design. The Japan House is a place to discover the latest and most traditional in Japanese art, design, and technology, with a range of exhibitions, events, and workshops taking place throughout the year. The shop at The Japan House is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese products, from traditional crafts and textiles to contemporary homeware and accessories. A highlight of your trip might be visiting the WCs downstairs, where you can experience the much-hyped high-tech toilets. Walk over to the Kyoto garden in Holland Park, down the road to complete your Japanese day out in London.
Wagumi, OXO Tower, Southwark and online
Wagumi is a small but perfectly formed, eclectic store located in the OXO Tower’s design district. It is a design store and online shop that specializes in Japanese design and craftsmanship. The store’s range includes everything from ceramics and glassware to furniture and homeware, all chosen for their high quality and attention to detail. Wagumi’s products are tastefully and playfully curated and includes retro and regional items as well as the traditional and minimalist.
Pantechnicon, Belgravia and online
Pantechnicon is a multi-storey design, shopping, dining and event destination where Japanese and Nordic cultures meet. You might describe this establishment as maximalist-minimalist, where every floor is lavishly filled with the most coveted objects of Japandi design. It is a visual feast, where the interior looks like a photograph from a Monocle magazine from every angle. Pantechnicon also houses Café Kitsuné, the coffee chain by French-Japanese record label and lifestyle brand Maison Kitsuné.
Sway Gallery, Old Street and online
Sway Gallery is gallery and design store that is a stone’s throw from Old Street roundabout and The Barbican. It hosts exhibitions, typically of up-and-coming talent in Japanese contemporary art. The store stocks a selection of gifts, sake and homeware from Japan. To me, the highlight of the shop is the reasonably priced, useful items like tenugui cloths, safe cardboard cutters and microwave cooking containers. It is open until 7pm on most days and so I’d recommend following it with a trip to Monohon ramen, the best ramen shop in London which is nearby.