Takashimaya Shinjuku Store

Get a comprehensive introduction to Tokyo’s artisanal legacy at this annual fair, which showcases the capital’s more than 40 traditional crafts, their history and production process. You’ll get to examine the items up close, see how over 30 of them are made, and – of course – purchase some if you’d like. In addition to local arts such as Edo Kiriko cut glassware, Tokyo Tokogei rattan craft and Honba Kihachijo silk fabrics from the remote island of Hachijojima, the line-up will include a booth featuring Wajima-nuri lacquerware from the Noto Peninsula. This year’s crafts highlight especially the traditional kikko (hexagonal tortoise shell) pattern, long appreciated in the capital for its dignified appearance and auspicious connotations of longevity. Free guided tours in English are available by reservation – don’t miss out on these if you want to interact with the artisans and learn more about their crafts. Moreover, there are workshops where you can try your hand at the various crafts featured at the fair. These range from making chopsticks using traditional Edo Sashimono wood joinery techniques to crafting your very own woodblock-printed postcards. The workshops require a fee and advance registration at the information counter is required. The venue is on the 11th floor of the Takashimaya department store in Shinjuku.