Unique Store · Aoyama / Akasaka

Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square 伝統工芸 青山スクエア

A government-backed showroom selling officially designated traditional crafts from across Japan, lacquerware, Arita porcelain, Edo glass, iron kettles, with rotating artisan demonstrations.

About

Run by the Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries, Aoyama Square on Aoyama-dori stocks items from the more than 240 crafts designated by Japan's government as 'traditional crafts'. Displays cover ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, woodwork, metalwork, washi and dolls, with prices from small gifts to museum-grade pieces. The gallery hosts frequent exhibitions by individual prefectures and craftspeople, many with live demonstrations. It's the best one-stop place in Tokyo to buy authentic regional crafts without travelling the country.

Highlights

• Crafts from all of Japan's designated traditional craft regions
• Rotating exhibitions and live artisan demonstrations
• Lacquerware, Edo kiriko glass and Arita and Kutani porcelain
• Nambu ironware kettles and handmade washi

Tips

• Tax-free with your passport on ¥5,000+ per store per day; from 1 Nov 2026 you pay the 10% tax at the till and reclaim it at airport customs, so keep purchases in your carry-on
• Check the exhibition schedule, demonstrations rotate every week or two
• Ask staff for certification details; each item is a designated traditional craft
• Combine with Akasaka Palace or a walk to Meiji Jingu Gaien

Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09

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