After more than three centuries of preserving Japan's finest craft traditions, Nakagawa will open its first European outpost in London's Shoreditch design district from 9 September 2025 to July 2026.
© Nakagawa
The store represents Nakagawa's most significant international expansion to date, introducing authentic Japanese kogei, heritage crafts, to European audiences seeking sustainable and meaningful alternatives to mass-produced goods.
Founded in 1716 by Nakaya Kihei in Nara, Nakagawa began as a merchant business specialising in Nara-Sarashi, a finely woven ramie cloth once favoured by samurai. Over generations, the company has evolved while staying true to the spirit of craftsmanship. Today, Nakagawa collaborates with over 800 artisans across Japan, from ceramicists in Shigaraki to metalworkers in Takaoka.
Nakagawa's philosophy of "preservation through transformation" emphasises sustainability and longevity, with each product designed to age gracefully. 'Nakagawa has always believed that true craftsmanship connects people across generations and cultures. Bringing our first pop-up to Shoreditch is a milestone moment, and we are excited to share the spirit of Japanese kogei with the London community. Through our products and workshops, we hope visitors will experience how tradition and modern life can come together to inspire more sustainable and meaningful ways of living,' said Tomoya Yasuda, Nakagawa.
The Shoreditch pop-up will feature around 500 items spanning textiles, ceramics, kitchenware, clothing, and home accessories. Highlights include the award-winning Hana-Fukin dishcloths, derived from mosquito net fabric and reimagined for contemporary kitchens, as well as the Oigen Casting Nambu Iron Kettle. Two limited-edition Hana-Fukin designs have been created exclusively for London, inspired by the Columbia Road Flower Market.
Beyond retail, visitors can take part in workshops including tea ceremony, kintsugi (golden repair), and traditional ice shaving, offering deeper insights into Japanese craftsmanship and philosophy.
The interior, designed by London-based studio Jones Neville, draws inspiration from the Victorian bandstand at Boundary Garden. Using locally sourced London sycamore, the space blends Japanese craft traditions with British material heritage. In-store graphics were created by A Practice for Everyday Life.
Nakagawa will also participate in the London Design Festival (13–21 September 2025), reinforcing its cultural exchange with the UK design community.
Key Information
Nakagawa London Pop-Up: 9 September 2025 – July 2026
Location: 16c Calvert Avenue, Shoreditch, London E2 7JP
Opening Hours: Tue–Sat 11:00–18:00, Sun 11:00–17:00
More information:
Nakagawa
www.nakagawa1716.com
