Five reasons why you should get Tokyo leather from Yamatou

Unlike mass-produced commercial brands often found at department stores, Yamatou’s leather products are all handmade, hence they each has unique characteristics. Leather is a material that ages gracefully; its appearance changes with prolonged use and through time, creating a beautiful patina that is unique. This weathered look is a sign of the leather’s premium quality, and it’s one of the main reasons why many people love leather products. Yamatou’s original leather, known as Buffing, is even more special since it’s inspired by Tokyo nights. Its ink black surface is gorgeous, and with some polishing, it will slowly reveal a subtle glittery effect.

Japanese are firm believers in symbolism, especially when it comes to fortune and feng shui, and as such the colour of one’s wallet is of particular importance. Different colours mean different things: yellow is to invite monetary luck, black is a sign of financial stability, while red is associated with active expenditure and thus great for those who are keen on attracting a robust income. Moreover, locals tend to prefer long wallets so that they don’t fold or crease the bills – it is a sign of respect for money.

Founded in 1899, Yamatou has been in business for almost 120 years in Tokyo. It’s the first Japanese manufacturer to officially produce French designer Louis Feraud’s leather items. Yamatou crafts its distinctive leather products with immaculate precision, using special skills that are unique to the brand’s time-honoured tradition. It is involved in every step of the process from design to production and retail, and all items are offered at reasonable prices.

Yamatou’s latest store in Kagurazaka offers workshops, where you can make your own leather item. You’ll learn how to use leather crafting tools while watching the artisans at work. You can check the workshop schedule posted on Yamatou’s Facebook page.

You’ll be welcomed by a cute little puppy at Yamatou’s new Kagurazaka store. She’s called Ti Aspetto Qui, which is ‘I’ll be right here’ in Italian – but don’t worry, she pretty much answers to the name ‘Asti’. Since she’s still very young, she can’t be at the store everyday, but when she’s there, you can count on her to make you feel welcomed. She’s a little bundle of joy and you’ll love her.