In the tools we use every day, we see beauty.
We feel familiarity and affection.
Using them lifts our spirits.
As we gaze at them,
we reminisce about the time spent together.
Casual conversations with
our tools are truly enjoyable.
With Gyokusendo's copperware,
and various crafts from different artisans in hand,
we sometimes converse,
sometimes quietly immerse in thought,
and discover new tools
that resonate with our hearts.
Kogai is such a place.
Feel like dropping by?
You're welcome anytime.
Makers
Gato Mikio 1908 - Yamanaka Lacquerware
Takemata Yuichi Metalwork
Kido Yukiko - Kutani Ware
Kentaro Kiln - Karatsu Ware
Suzuki Morihisa Studio - Nanbu Ironware
Senuma Kentaro Glass
Tsuchiya Textiles
Hataman Touen - Imari Nabeshima Ware
Fujii Woodwork
Matsumoto Ikumi Ceramics
Marunao Woodwork
Murakami Keiko Textiles
Origins
Until the 1960s, this area was known as Kogai Town. The name is said to have originated from the nearby Kogai Bridge which has since been lost.
Originally, kogai referred to a type of hairpin for women. Over time, it evolved into a tool for arranging hair and scratching one’s head. It became ubiquitous as a personal grooming tool and often seen adorning the handles of swords.
Over time, the desire for artistic expression grew and kogai began to reflect the preferences of its makers and owners. Crafted by skilled metalworkers during the Edo period, designs and make of kogai were said to be distinctive enough to identify the owner or artisan themselves.
Naming the space Kogai seemed fitting in light of the area’s history and a shared connection with metalwork.
Gyokusendo Kogai
2-18-10 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0031 Japan
Google Maps
From Omotesando Station (exit A5), walk 10 minutes.
It’s at the very end of the street in a quiet residential area.
Phone / Fax: 03-6450-6370
kogai@gyokusendo.com
Open
| Wed, Thu, Weekends: | 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Fri: | 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM |
Closed
| Mon, Tue |
Operating hours may vary.
Check our instagram for updates.
