Reopening of MoMA Design Store Kyoto: A New Chapter Begins with Unique Offerings

MoMA Design Store Kyoto: A Reimagined Experience

On September 4, 2026, the MoMA Design Store in Kyoto will officially reopen its doors at the Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Center (T8), located on the second floor of the renowned shopping destination. After closing its previous location due to the end of a contractual agreement, this highly anticipated relaunch marks a significant milestone for the store, which has been a pivotal part of the Japanese retail landscape since its partnership with MoMA began in 2016. With the new store, Kyoto joins the ranks of existing locations in Tokyo's Omotesando, Osaka's Shinsaibashi, and Fukuoka's Tenjin, making it the fourth branch in Japan.

The MoMA Design Store Kyoto is not just another retail space; it serves as a unique museum store that embodies the mission of making exceptional design accessible to everyone. The store plays a crucial role in connecting the traditional aesthetics of Kyoto with contemporary design sensibilities, creating a vibrant shopping experience that appeals to both locals and international visitors alike. Its location in the Kawaramachi area, a shopping hub in this international tourist city, positions it ideally for attracting a diverse clientele.

A Fresh Interior Design Inspired by Kyoto

The design of the new store space has been executed by the Japanese design studio MOMENT, known for their creative and modern approach. The store features elements inspired by traditional Kyoto architecture, utilizing materials and color schemes that reflect the city's historical context. The incorporation of wooden frameworks, reminiscent of Kyoto's alleyways, adds warmth and authenticity to the space. The design makes use of green tones, evoking the natural beauty found in moss and bamboo, harmoniously blending the innovative spirit of MoMA with Japan's time-honored craft techniques.

Exclusive Launch Products and Collaborations

To celebrate the grand reopening, the MoMA Design Store Kyoto will debut an exciting array of approximately 600 carefully curated products. These items have been selected by MoMA's curators to represent high design standards, from iconic pieces to innovative products that may not yet be well-known. Among the exclusive items will be a collaboration with a local Kyoto manufacturer, Karasuma Rokuhachido, featuring a limited edition set of notebooks at 2,640 yen. These beautifully crafted notebooks will include designs inspired by Mount Fuji and cranes, complete with MoMA's logo and original colors, embodying a blend of functionality and beauty.

Additionally, fashion enthusiasts will find a special pre-sale opportunity for the Champion Hoodie MoMA Edition, available in new colors of brown and blue, priced at 14,300 yen. This unique piece of apparel was originally created in conjunction with the exhibition titled 'Items: Is Fashion Modern?' held in 2017.

For customers spending over 1,100 yen, the first visitors will receive an exclusive MoMA Design Store Kyoto logo sticker as a commemorative gift, making every purchase a part of this new chapter.

The Value of MoMA Design Store

Each product offered at the MoMA Design Store is meticulously vetted and approved by MoMA's curatorial team, ensuring that customers can trust the quality and design integrity of the items. Jesse Goldstein, Chief Retail Officer at MoMA, emphasizes the significance of the store's presence in Japan, highlighting its role in expanding awareness of MoMA and its mission. The opening of the Kyoto branch will provide new opportunities to connect fresh audiences in Japan with the principles of good design.

With ongoing collaborations with artists, designers, and manufacturers worldwide, the MoMA Design Store continues to bring high-quality products that enrich the shopping experience while contributing to vital museum programs, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.

For more details on the MoMA Design Store and to view the online offerings, visit MoMA Design Store Online.

Store Details

- Name: MoMA Design Store Kyoto
- Location: 35 Motomachi, 2 Chome, Shijo-dori, Higashii-iru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
- Opening Date: September 4, 2026
- Floor Area: Approximately 112 square meters
- Hours: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM
- Closed: In accordance with Kyoto Takashimaya's schedule
- Takashimaya S.C. Information: Takashimaya Kyoto