#Japan #Tokyo #OEM #Nichigan #Kittoko

A Tradition of Craftsmanship in Wooden Toys

Founded in 1929, Nichigan is a well-respected manufacturer of wooden toys based in Toshima, Tokyo. Emphasizing warmth and sustainability, the company believes in enriching daily life through the charm of wooden products. Over the years, they have collaborated with various entities to align their manufacturing capabilities with the creative needs of contemporary designs, especially under their OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) initiative. This collaboration allows Nichigan to produce a variety of wooden items including toys, stationery, and home décor.

The Birth of Kittoko

One of their recent noteworthy projects is the Kittoko, commissioned by Hatoha Co., Ltd., located in Sagamihara, Kanagawa. The Kittoko, which beautifully showcases and preserves a baby’s first haircut, received the prestigious Good Design Award in 2021. The concept behind Kittoko stems from the desire to create a meaningful and aesthetically pleasing way to commemorate a precious milestone – a baby’s first haircut.

The Inspiration Behind Kittoko

The creative mind behind this innovative product is Hiroki Endo, a hairstylist who experienced the emotional significance of a child’s first haircut firsthand through his practice. He recognized that while there were common methods to preserve this moment, such as attaching the hair to brushes or storing it in envelopes, they often lacked style and elegance. Endo aimed to develop a product that not only preserved this precious memory but also added a decorative touch, leading to the birth of Kittoko.

A Unique Keepsake

Kittoko allows parents to “decorate, gift, and preserve” their child's first hair in a stylish manner. Designed with warmth in mind, this keepsake exhibits a natural wood finish and simplifies the setup process. Parents need only to bundle the hair with tape and insert it into the Kittoko holder to complete the setup seamlessly. This ease of use caters to modern families who appreciate both sentimentality and style in their keepsakes.

The Road to Recognition

The design and functionality of Kittoko have not just appealed to consumers but have also won accolades, including the Good Design Award. Its ability to blend as an interior piece enhances its role beyond a mere keepsake. It stands out as a significant gift option and serves as a communication tool for sharing cherished memories among families.

Collaboration with Nichigan

Endo was drawn to Nichigan for their expertise in fulfilling specific orders and their supportive approach in production processes. Managing a hair salon while simultaneously working on Kittoko's promotion proved challenging. However, through Nichigan's marketing support, they succeeded in penetrating new market channels, ensuring Kittoko reached a broader audience.

A Message for Potential Collaborators

For companies contemplating ventures into wooden product design or OEM production, Nichigan comes highly recommended. Their commitment to working closely with clients, addressing detailed requests, and providing a comprehensive understanding of wood-based products make them a reliable partner in the creative process.

Company Overview
Nichigan has dedicated itself since 1929 to creating safe, imaginative wooden toys that cultivate children's creativity and imaginative play. Their motto, “Enriching daily life with the warmth of wood,” resonates through their extensive range of products designed for all generations.

• - Corporate Name: Nichigan Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: President Yoko Tsukada
• - Address: 4-2-33 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, 170-0003
• - Business Activities: Manufacturing, wholesale, and retail of wooden toys and miscellaneous goods.
• - Official Website: Nichigan
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