Finding Hints for a New Level of Lifestyle on Tokyo Edo Kirari’s Official Instagram

With the concept of “old meets new”, 22 model businesses that are undertaking projects suitable to a modern lifestyle are participating as representative brands of Tokyo.

Marukyu Shoten’s handbags, Chikusen’s handkerchiefs, Hanashyo’s large sake cups, and many other products made with traditional techniques are sophisticated and elegant while in many cases also showcasing colorful, modern designs. They have an appeal to them that makes you want to pick them up and share them with others.

The project’s official Instagram videos will introduce many such products and creations, along with the ideas of the businesses that create them.

Subtly working such products into your surroundings will lend your lifestyle that extra level of quality.

Marukyu Shoten

Marukyu Shoten was founded in Meiji 32, or 1899.

This wholesaler carries many products dyed using a unique Japanese dye-blocking technique called “chusen”, which was much beloved by Edo residents. The video shows how the garment patterns used in chusen are chosen, as well as introducing some of the shop’s modern products.

Takahashi Kobo

Established more than 160 years ago in the Edo period, Takahashi Kobo has been making Edo woodblock prints for generations.

The shop additionally enjoys a good reputation as a publisher, and they have preserved their techniques while also offering creative works suitable to a modern lifestyle. This video introduces many works that have gained support among the younger generation, such as Makiko Sugawa’s erotic woodblock prints and ukiyoe prints by Peko-chan.

Toshimaya Honten

Toshimaya Sake Shop was founded as a sake store and izakaya in Kanda Kamakurakashi in Keicho 1 (1596).

In this video, an international host visits the Toshimaya Sake Shop that opened in 2020 and introduces us to their popular sake and food.

Eitaro Sohonpo

Eitaro Sohonpo was established in 1818 and brought joy to the taste buds of Edo’s people. The international host reports on the shop’s kintsuba confection, which has been made the same way since the shop’s founding. Many other products appear that are so cute you’ll want to take them home with you.

Chikusen

Using stencils passed down from the Edo period and traditional patterns, Chikusen continues to make products that incorporate modern design.

In addition to yukata and Edo komon kimono, the video focuses on items such as dresses and bags that adapt traditional techniques and patterns, lending a stylish Japanese design to your everyday lifestyle.

Hanashyo

Hanashyo carries on the tradition of using Edo kiriko—a traditional craft established in Nihonbashi at the end of the Edo period—in its own original designs and techniques. As you watch the video, look out for Hanashyo’s original works such as “Kometsunagi”, which contains a prayer for an abundant harvest, and “Hanafubuki”, which evokes hope for the long-awaited spring.