Since its founding in 1816 as a producer of metal pots or yakan in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, Gyokusendo has been producing items using the hammering technique of copperware. In recent years, Gyokusendo has actively engaged in industrial tourism, allowing visitors to experience the charm of craftsmanship in the production area.

Following the Tsubame flagship store in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, and the Ginza store at GINZA SIX, the new store “Gyokusendo KOGAI” opened in Nishi-Azabu, Tokyo on March 10, 2024. The name “KOGAI” is derived from the old town name of this area and also refers to a type of craft item that metal artisans used to make as a women’s hairpin. The new store is a craft select shop that offers a wide selection of handcrafted items that can be used alongside copperware such as metal pots, tea ware, and sake ware produced by Gyokusendo. At the opening in March, in addition to Gyokusendo, various products from 12 artists and manufacturers such as woodworking, textiles, lacquerware, ceramics, glassware, and metalwork were displayed. The store also provides advice on maintaining and using copperware, creating a space filled with the joy of incorporating craftsmanship into daily life.

“Gyokusendo KOGAI” was created with the aim of providing a space where people can spend enriching moments together, touching crafts and engaging in interactive communication, amidst the rise of non-face-to-face online sales. To allow for a relaxing experience, the store is equipped with a kitchen counter and chairs for serving tea. Conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Omotesando Station, the store invites visitors to find craft items that will uplift their spirits and enrich their lives.

◾️Store information

Gyokusendo KOGAI
Address: 2-18-10, Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81-3-6450-6370
Access: 10 minutes walk from Omotesando Station A5 Exit
Opening hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 11:00 am to 6:30 pm / Friday 12:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Closed: Monday and Tuesday
Website: https://www.gyokusendo.com

◾️Artists and manufacturers (March 2024)

Gyokusendo (Hammered copperware / Niigata Prefecture)
Gato Mikio (Yamanaka lacquerware / Ishikawa Prefecture)
KiKU Yuichi Takemata (Metalwork / Ishikawa Prefecture)
Yukiko Kido (Kutani ware / Ishikawa Prefecture)
Kentaro Pottery (Karatsu ware / Saga Prefecture)
Suzuki Morihisa Studio (Nanbu Tekki / Iwate Prefecture)
Kentaro Senuma (Glass / Akita Prefecture)
Tsuchiya Orimono-sho (Textiles / Nara Prefecture)
Hataman Touen (Imari Nabeshima ware / Saga Prefecture)
Fujii Seisakusho (Woodwork / Hyogo Prefecture)
Ikumi Matsumoto (Ceramics / Shiga Prefecture)
Marunao (Woodwork / Niigata Prefecture)
Keiko Murakami (Textiles / Chiba Prefecture)