New York is a city where new things are always being created

New York in the United States is a center of fashion, art, and business, and a city where people from all over the world gather in search of dreams and excitement.

Since the Age of Discovery, it has flourished as the gateway to America, and its history of welcoming many immigrants has led to its current cutting-edge culture.

Did you know that many people cite browsing the various general stores as one of their reasons for visiting New York?

In response to such requests, the number of stylish general stores has increased, and they are also popular as souvenirs among tourists.

However, there are many items that have not yet arrived in Japan and many that can only be purchased in New York.

New York goods to appear at Kiyosumi Shirakawa's hidden store "Genreless Exhibition"

Located a one-minute walk from Kiyosumi Shirakawa Station, Genreless Exhibition is a store that mainly sells original brands from the manufacturing group Waji.

In addition, as the name suggests, this is a concept store that handles high-quality made-in-Japan products and international products, regardless of genre or maker.

We have devised a lineup that will give visitors the same sense of excitement as if they were browsing a small art museum.

The store will now be stocking a lineup of New York goods that will allow you to experience the authentic culture of the city.

It is currently unclear what items will be available.

The waji store owner will travel to the local area and embark on a purchasing journey.

Waji store owner Sakamaki was once fascinated by New York culture.

Sakamaki, a certified leather sommelier and store owner of waji, is the one who is heading to New York. Having been captivated by New York culture in the past, we asked him what perspective he will take as he explores the city.

*The photos in New York in this article were taken by Mr. Sakamaki

---Please introduce yourself.

Sakamaki: I am the store owner at waji. I work in the Tokyo office, which handles finishing and logistics, and I mainly manage the online store and the Kiyosumi Shirakawa store.

Have you been to New York before?

Sakamaki: I love it and have been there about seven or eight times. The first time I went to New York was about 22 years ago, when I was in my early twenties. My boss at the accessories brand where I was working at the time took me there as a reward for my work.

I've always loved hip hop, so I'll never forget the excitement I felt the moment I left the airport. After that, I continued to visit the city several times as a freelancer to purchase local accessories and jewelry.

--What was the place like?

Sakamaki: It's a city that brings together artists of a wide range of genres and generations, including graphic artists, dancers, and street performers. I think I was drawn to Broadway, but there are artists and designers everywhere who are passionate about expression.

Some people work in cafes during the day and devote their time to theater at night, while others are guerrilla street artists. Their energy is incredible. I even saw a dancer suddenly break out into dance on the train once.

—--What is the appeal of New York?

Sakamaki: What shocked me was the diversity. There were people of all races, immigrants, and Asians. The energy of these people was strong.

It was shocking to see people who couldn't speak much English communicate with such energy and enthusiasm. It seems like each person has their own style, rather than conforming to the culture.

—--What kind of items do you plan to stock in a town like that?

Sakamaki: I'm inspired by accessories, rings, necklaces, etc. made by local artists. American items aren't as precisely made as Japanese products, but many of them are full of a unique worldview.

For example, they have some really unconventional ideas, like dismantling records to make book covers, or turning coins into rings. I'd like to stock a wide range of items, from cute items to items with similar ideas.

Rather than items from major brands, we look for pieces that are filled with personal energy and that convey the real atmosphere of New York.

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You can also check out what Sakamaki saw in New York on the waji exhibit store's official Instagram.

Instagram

In addition, the items purchased will be sold sequentially at the waji store in Kiyosumi Shirakawa, "Genreless Exhibition," and at this online shop.

What kind of worldview will he bring back? Please look forward to it.

(Text and photos) Kusekke Design Takahashi Soji Website