#Japan #Tokyo #Jiyugaoka #Katakana #Craft Artists

Experience the Charm of 'Katakana Zoo' in Jiyugaoka

This summer, the renowned event 'Katakana Zoo' is returning to the Katakana store in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo, from August 1 to August 21, 2025. This initiative, which began in 2013, brings together 13 talented artisans from across the country to present and sell unique animal-themed crafts.

At this event, visitors can find an array of imaginative items including tableware, decorative objects, and utensils that invite the charm of animals into everyday life. Each piece exudes personality and humor, naturally bringing a smile to anyone who encounters it. Though real animals won’t be there, you're sure to find a captivating piece that makes you want to take it home.

Event Details

• - Dates: August 1 (Friday) - August 21 (Thursday), 2025
• - Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
• - Location: Katakana, 1F Daiichi Wachi Building, 5-20-21 Okusawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo

For more details and updates, check out Katakana's website or their Instagram.

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Fun for All Ages: A Craft Animal Adventure

For Junichi Kawano, the founder of Katakana, the zoo symbolizes cherished summer memories from his childhood. He recalls the joy of spontaneity—saying, “Let’s visit the zoo tomorrow,” and simply going without hesitation. With animals that are powerful, humorous, and beautiful, they never fail to capture attention. Kawano wished to create such a delightful atmosphere in Jiyugaoka, leading to the birth of 'Katakana Zoo'. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, they have continually adapted and enhanced the experience each year.

Participating Artisans

• - Anto Leather
• - Irocomono
• - Emoemo
• - Kigi Ceramics
• - Shouhei Kitahara
• - Gallery Chiyoco
• - Chiharu Koizumi
• - Koubou Monogokoro
• - Sugar Poppo
• - Suzuki Zoo-mae
• - Taji
• - Nukumaru
• - Mado no Niwa

Charming and humorous pieces will once again gather in Jiyugaoka, ready for visitors to discover their favorite items at Katakana.

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About Katakana

Katakana is a select shop that embodies the concept of “collecting the cool of Japan”, offering a variety of traditional crafts, regional specialties, stationery, fashion items, and artisanal goods from all over Japan. They frequently update their inventory based on the seasons and organize events every two to three weeks to keep things fresh. The philosophy behind the name 'Katakana' is to signify the expression of contemporary Japan rather than nostalgic traditions, and serve as a bridge to the outside world, using the katakana script as a versatile tool for translating foreign words into Japanese.

Location: Katakana Jiyugaoka, 1F Daiichi Wachi Building, 5-20-21 Okusawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Online Store: http://katakana.shop-pro.jp/
Social Media:

• - Instagram: @katakana_jiyugaoka
• - X (formerly Twitter): @katakana_japan
• - Facebook: @katakanajapan

Contact Information for Inquiries

• - Company: Tanken Corporation
• - Contact Person: Junichi Kawano (Representative)
• - Public Relations: Hajime Takahashi
• - Phone: 03-5731-0919
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Address: 1F Daiichi Wachi Building, 5-20-21 Okusawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
• - Website: http://katakana-net.com/