Looking for something quintessentially Japanese for that perfect gift or souvenir? Each month, we round up some of our favorite artisanal items made by local craftsmen and designers. December is all about festive season gift giving…

Eternal Ring By Hatakeyama Shippou Seisakusyo Co., Ltd.

With a stylish unisex design, the eternal ring series skillfully creates a seemingly infinite loop of seven solid colors. The ring requires a sophisticated technique to seamlessly polish and flatten the 12 sides of the ring, making it a truly unique accessory.

¥18,000-¥28,000, www.tokyo-shippou.com

Premium Bottled Tea Ginjyocha By Shimodozono Co., Ltd.

This tea series uses locally and organically grown leaves as well as pure water sourced from Kagoshima to bring out the full flavor of the leaves. With no chemicals added, the bottled tea draws out a richer flavor and aroma for an exquisite tea experience.

¥5,000 per bottle, www.shimo.co.jp

Twist Hair Brush By Artforme Co., Ltd.

The striking curve of this comb fits comfortably into your hand and along the contours of your scalp, gently massaging with each stroke. The comb is made from a Japanese wood called ono-ore-kamba, and created with outstanding craftsmanship.

¥10,000-¥50,000, www.artforme1991.tumblr.com/shopping

Tea Pot Mariasobi By Iwachu Co., Ltd.

Finely crafted by a leading Nambu ironware manufacturer, these pots use Chiyogami paper as a motif and are available in five colors. The inner parts are enamel coated to provide excellent functionality.

¥6,800, www.iwachu.co.jp

Hedgehog Sewing Box By Hiro Co., Ltd.

This cute but practical hedgehog sewing box is packed with tools selected by professionals, while incorporating the Japanese concept of “kawaii.” The story behind the development is equally adorable: the company first created a panda pincushion but customers felt sorry about sticking pins into it, so they switched to the hedgehog instead. 

¥4,000, www.hiro55.com

Fruit Bouquet By Plaisir Co., Ltd.

Brought to life as a new way to enjoy fruit, this product offers the finest selection of seasonal fruits perfectly arranged in flower bouquet fashion. The fruit is coated with sugar-free kanten (agar-agar) to keep it fresh and vibrant – simply perfect for special occasions and festive season gift hampers.

¥5,000-¥25,000, www.fruit-bouquets.com

Kumihimo Bracelet By Ayami Jewelry Co., Ltd.

Made in collaboration with Chikuhou Hirata, a renowned Japanese kumihimo braiding craftsman who places an emphasis on the importance of Japan’s traditional techniques and the use of silk braids in his works, these bracelets are expertly braided to combine stunning patterns and colors.

¥27,000-¥185,000, www.ayamijewelry.com

Kimono Bottle Cover By Toka Co., Ltd.

The Kimono Bottle Cover “dresses” your bottle rather than just covering it. It fits various bottles, including wine, champagne, Japanese sake and shochu, and wraps around the bottle with velcro. The perfect item to add a traditional Japanese touch to any dining occasion.

¥2,800-¥4,500, www.mami-mitsuda.tokyo

Isuru By Hayashigo Co., Ltd.

Developed with the aim of expanding the possibilities of Japanese urushi, this fashion accessory brand creates modern items that incorporate the traditional lacquer material. The stylish wallets and bags are suitable for both men and women.

¥5,200-¥59,000, www.hayashi-go.co.jp


All featured products are part of Omotenashi Selection, a project that brings together fine handcrafted items from around Japan and shares them with international audiences.

For more info, go to omotenashinippon.jp/selection/en