Travel
A Tokyo Recap From Tara
9 February, 2026
My first two days in Tokyo were spent at the International Gift show, and to say they were big days would be an understatement. It was back-to-back meetings, with every spare moment spent trying to see as many makers and companies as possible. While trade shows aren't usually how we discover people to work with, they are invaluable for networking and uncovering smaller brands we can later visit in their workshops.
This year I met with a sock manufacturer, a few potters, soap makers, stationery companies, towel factories and even frypan makers. Oh and we ran into our friends from Nara Prefecture, which was a nice surprise.
I still managed to find some time to visit a few new places on my trip, these are the top places I visited while I was in Tokyo.
01
Skwarts.02
Skwarts.Skwart/Twelvebooks
While is took me over an hour to get here, it was worth it! Records, art and photography books - it was amazing and it's huge!
Et-The Cultural Coffeehouse
I visited here on my way to the trade show. Great coffee and nice food and a lovely interior.
03
Et-Cultural Coffee.04
Dear All Cafe.Dear All
Great spot for a coffee and chill before a busy day.
Coffee Country
Coffee and design is top notch! I popped by a couple of times.
Péro
A wine and a snack is what you need after a looooong day of meetings.
05
Snow at the Izakaya!06
Tsugumi Izakaya.Tsugumi Higashikita
I randomly was staying across from here and decided to drop by. It's an izakaya that serves natural wine. It was delicious!
Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten
Found on the 11F of Shibuya Scramble Square, explore all Japanese made goods, from fashion to fry pans.
Candle Cafe All
Bar and books - need I say more.