#Japan #Tokyo #Yamagata #Muji #Local crafts

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Experience the Essence of Yamagata in Tokyo

Yamagata Prefecture is known for its rich history and long-standing craftsmanship, and now, for six days only, you can experience its unique charm at MUJI Ginza through the pop-up event titled "ii mono Yamagata Tokino Ichi". From January 13 to January 18, 2026, this special event promises to unveil the latest and most profound aspects of Yamagata's regional products.

The event is a celebration of Yamagata's heritage, showcasing an array of local specialties that reflect the time ("toki") and skills that have been nurtured in this beautiful region. Visitors will be able to touch and feel the products, engage with artisans, and participate in workshops aimed at deepening the understanding of Yamagata's materials, techniques, and the thoughts behind the creations.

Event Overview

Under the theme of "ii mono Yamagata", the pop-up will invite you to experience Yamagata’s cultural richness through the following:

• - Open Market and Exhibitions: Discover locally made crafts available for purchase. From clothing, food, and home goods to pleasurable experiences, Yamagata's treasures will be on display. You can hold and explore these products, feeling the textures and understanding the artisans' dedication firsthand. There will also be a children's corner featuring wooden toys from Yamagata, ensuring a fun outing for families.

• - Workshops: A series of workshops will take place from January 13 to January 18, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences such as chopstick making, fruit tea tastings, and flower arrangement using freeze-dried flowers. Each workshop has a nominal fee and requires advance booking through MUJI's event page.

• - Talk Sessions: On January 18, a free talk session will discuss "Living with Handmade Goods from Yamagata", emphasizing the connection between craft and daily life, and how to choose enduring products that enhance living quality.

Featured Artisan Vendors

During the event, various local artisans will be participating, showcasing their distinctive specialties:

• - Urushiyama Orchard: Renowned for its dried fruits and gelato made from local grapes, promising to delight your taste buds.
• - Tamatani Seimen: Known for unique pastas including snowflake pasta made from sprouted rice and traditional soba, a testament to Yamagata’s rich culinary heritage.
• - Apple Cider Brewery: This vendor offers organic apple juice and cider crafted without pesticides, reflecting the authentic flavors of Yamagata.
• - Ken Land Linen: Discover beautifully crafted linen products like towels and socks that embody the timeless quality of Yamagata fabrics.
• - Nitorito: A factory brand that emphasizes high-quality textiles designed to last, free from fast fashion trends.
• - Umunowa: A designer brand focused on organic cosmetics and tea made from handpicked flowers, providing unique scent experiences.

Additionally, there will be children's workshops, a Kendama experience area where kids can play with finely crafted kendamas, and exciting activities featuring Wood Blocks made from Yamagata's rich timber.

Conclusion

This unique event is an invitation to slow down and engage deeply with Yamagata's tradition. It stands as a mini market where you can find thoughtfully crafted goods that bring joy to everyday life, enriching your lifestyle through quality rather than quantity. Visiting MUJI Ginza from January 13 to January 18 is not just an opportunity to shop but a chance to connect with the essence of Yamagata and its artisans’ stories.

Stay tuned for updates and highlights through the official Instagram of ii mono Yamagata: Instagram Link. We look forward to welcoming you for this enriching experience!

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