Boutique Kinasé, the Store Paying Homage to Niigata

Numerous Franco-Japanese events have taken place to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and Japan. It is within this framework that Kinasé, the boutique specialising in products from the prefecture of Niigata, was opened in July 2018.

The region of Niigata is the number one rice producer in the country, the reason for which the store is focusing on items created from the grain from saké to mochis and other luxury items. There are also a number of products made by local artisans including knives from the town of Tsubame-Sanjo, small boxes sculpted from precious wood or kitchen utensils.

The region, situated in the north west of Japan, two hours from Tokyo, kinasé means in the local dialect, welcome. It is a word that can also be translated as the spirit of conviviality, authenticity and a typically Japanese sense of welcome. You can also pull up a seat on the outside terrace and sip on a tea or try some Japanese pastries.