These small albizia wood animals are ideal gifts for children and adults alike. Their endearing designs brighten up any counter, desk, or table and remind us of the life that can be found in even the inanimate. Each scaly, feathered, and furry friend is designed by T-Lab., a studio in Japan, and painstakingly carved, polished, and painted by a team of artisans. Available in dozens of adorable animal shapes; see our full collection here, and read about their adventures in the rikumo journal. Recommended for ages 5 and up. About T-Lab."From our hand to your hand" is the heartwarming philosophy behind these animal companions from Japanese design studio T-Lab. By using sustainable lumber and taking their time shaping each cute creature - they refer to their process as polepole, which means "slowly" in Swahili - the artisans at T-Lab. transform flora into fauna, creating charming examples of the natural world while respecting its finite bounty. Materials: Albizia woodHyogo Prefecture, Japan

Room shoes are Japanese home essentials and a tradition growing more common in the Western world. Crafted from Sasawashi fabric, these Osaka-made slippers from Rikumo absorb moisture (and odors) and won't pill. Best of all, of course, they are comfortable to slip into after a long day. Size L - Fits US Mens 7.5-9 Size LL - Fits US Mens 9.5-11

See photos from the Rikumo Kokedama planting workshop! On Wednesday, July 24th, 2019, a small group of plant enthusiasts convened in our store after we had closed to the public to partake in a special hands-on Kokedama making party.

These small albizia wood animals are ideal gifts for children and adults alike. Their endearing designs brighten up any counter, desk, or table and remind us of the life that can be found in even the inanimate. Each scaly, feathered, and furry friend is designed by T-Lab., a studio in Japan, and painstakingly carved, polished, and painted by a team of artisans. Available in dozens of adorable animal shapes; see our full collection here, and read about their adventures in the rikumo journal. Recommended for ages 5 and up. About T-Lab."From our hand to your hand" is the heartwarming philosophy behind these animal companions from Japanese design studio T-Lab. By using sustainable lumber and taking their time shaping each cute creature - they refer to their process as polepole, which means "slowly" in Swahili - the artisans at T-Lab. transform flora into fauna, creating charming examples of the natural world while respecting its finite bounty. Materials: Albizia woodDimensions: 2 ½" L x 1 ¼" W x 3 ½" HHyogo Prefecture, Japan

This minimalist scent diffuser does not require heat to create a halo of fragrance. Conceived by designer Fumie Shibata, its shape looks to nature for inspiration resembling a well-worn river stone with four small feet. Simply add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to its surface, and enjoy an intimate and uplifting aromatic experience. About @Aroma@Aroma is a design studio devoted to creating unique fragrances for public and private spaces. An international leader in the field of Scent Architecture and Design, @Aroma blends the essences of native Japanese plants to weave tapestries of aromatic impressions that will set your mind adrift through the fields and forests of Japan. The studio's goal is to bring fragrance to the forefront of high design - something they have accomplished for clients like Volvo, Lufthansa, Mercedes Benz, and Palace Hotel Tokyo. Materials: CeramicDimensions: 3.54" L x 3.15" W x 0.79" HTokoname, Japan

This handsome, rikumo-branded Six-Panel Baseball Cap is crafted from an eco-friendly blend of scrap fabrics and sustainably sourced cotton with a brim of recycled plastic. Its unisex design features a concealable rear strap that allows for easy size adjustments. The cap's unique appearance comes from a fabric - 9.5 oz bull denim - that weds superior durability with a distinctive woven aesthetic. Aside from its plastic inner brim, all elements of the cap's construction are biodegradable, and all cuttings from its creation are reused by the manufacturer. Every cap sold supports a supply chain based on fair wages and ethical sourcing. Rikumo Since its creation in 2009, the purpose behind Rikumo has not wavered. Our founder, Yuka Morihata, envisioned the brand as a door to the world of Japanese design, one that brings the peerless efforts of little-known artists and world-renowned craftspeople from the workshops of Kyoto and Yokkaichi to the homes of design-minded people everywhere. By connecting ancient techniques and the work they produce with a modern international public who appreciates beauty, quality, and simplicity, rikumo continues to support the unique character and artistry of traditional Japanese design. Ardmore, PA Materials: 50% recycled cotton, 42% sustainably sourced virgin cotton, 8% mixed recycled fibers Sizing: One size fits allHat height: 6.5"Brim length: 2.75"Circumference (adjustable): 21.5" - 23.5" Care: Machine wash warm with like colors using a gentle detergent. Hang or tumble dry low.

With a pleasant, padded texture, this tactile bathmat is inspired by the beauty of a Japanese bamboo thicket. Made from 100% cotton, its highly absorbent fibers soak up water from the bath in minutes and dry nearly as fast, letting you avoid the musty smells that come from other bath mats. Available in four colors. About YoshiiYoshii textiles are constructed in the traditionally slim and compact Japanese style and are known for their unrivaled softness and fresh stylings. Each piece is woven in Imabari from hand-picked, twisted-ring Shankar 6 cotton threads, which are massaged down, puffed, and combed twice for ultimate softness. Their exciting designs and low-chemical manufacturing process make these lightweight products visually striking, highly absorbent, and fast-drying - in other words, perfect for daily use. Materials: 100% cottonDimensions: 29" L x 20" WCare: Machine wash with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners. Hang or tumble dry low.Imabari, Japan

Musubi is the Japanese word for the spiritual power of growth that is found in all natural things. Inspired by this philosophy, the Musubi vase collection displays fresh-cut flowers with the same dynamic grace as if they were still growing in the earth. Each vase is hand-turned and carved from Japanese Zelkova wood, which is traditionally used to make Taiko drums and furniture. Each style is designed in a form inspired after one of the Five Elements, with Sora (or "void") representing the things beyond our everyday experience, like spirit, thought, and creative energy. Perfectly symmetrical and smooth to the touch, this stunning piece is a testament to the perfection that can be achieved by a pair of human hands. About GatoHailing from the Yamanaka region of Japan, where lacquering has been practiced since the 16th century, Gato’s collection of beautiful vessels is born from traditional techniques requiring the highest level of skill. Through meticulous cutting, carving, shaving, and lacquering, the artisans at Gato manage to mold wood into works of art that pay homage to their arboreal origins. Each lightweight piece showcases an exquisite wood grain unmarred by the production process and is as functional as it is beautiful. Materials: Zelkova woodDimensions: 4.75" D x 5" HCare: Use a soft cloth to remove dust, wiping gently. If necessary, hand wash with a mild soap, then dry immediately and thoroughly.Yamanaka, Japan

These small albizia wood animals are ideal gifts for children and adults alike. Their endearing designs brighten up any counter, desk, or table and remind us of the life that can be found in even the inanimate. Each scaly, feathered, and furry friend is designed by T-Lab., a studio in Japan, and painstakingly carved, polished, and painted by a team of artisans. Available in dozens of adorable animal shapes; see our full collection here, and read about their adventures in the rikumo journal. Recommended for ages 5 and up. About T-Lab."From our hand to your hand" is the heartwarming philosophy behind these animal companions from Japanese design studio T-Lab. By using sustainable lumber and taking their time shaping each cute creature - they refer to their process as polepole, which means "slowly" in Swahili - the artisans at T-Lab. transform flora into fauna, creating charming examples of the natural world while respecting its finite bounty. Materials: Albizia woodDimensions: 2 ½" L x 1 ¼" W x 3" HHyogo Prefecture, Japan

Meet the ultimate kitchen workhorse. This sleek unibody wok is made from nearly indestructible cast iron that ensures even heating and amazing heat retention, but the most amazing feature is its lightweight construction. At just 2.0 mm in thickness, it's light enough to toss and flip any stir fry without breaking a sweat, and the wok's handle is completely hollow, further reducing its weight. This Featherweight Cast Iron Wok is preseasoned and ready for immediate use. It is safe for all cook surfaces and features a flat bottom, so there is no need for a wok ring. Please also note that the wok has a heat-resistant silicon coating to ensure longevity. About Sanjo Special CastSanjo Special Cast (SSC) is located in Tsubame Sanjo, a town in Niigata Prefecture that is synonymous with metalworking. Their invention of a ductile, graphite-rich FCD cast iron material allows for the creation of extremely strong yet thin cookware that boasts top-quality heat retention and distribution at a fraction of the weight. Materials: FCD cast iron, heat-resistant silicon coatingDimensions: 17.8" L (with handle) x 11.4" D (interior) x 6.1" HThickness: 2 mm (side wall), 2.5 mm (bottom)Weight: Approx. 3.3 lbsCare: After first use, wash well using detergent, then dry immediately and thoroughly. On subsequent uses, clean with a non-metallic scrub brush using no detergent while the wok is still warm, again drying immediately and thoroughly. Please see our rikumo journal entry for more tips on caring for your cast iron cookware.Tsubame Sanjo, Japan

Are you cheating on your pruners if you start seeing another pair? I would say no, but I'll let you know what my pruners have to say about it after my new

Sharon the Shiba, Perry the Porcupine, Cassius the Capybara… our T-Lab friends are always on the lookout for a great adventure. We’ve compiled all our favorite stories so you can join in the action.

These small albizia wood animals are ideal gifts for children and adults alike. Their endearing designs brighten up any counter, desk, or table and remind us of the life that can be found in even the inanimate. Each scaly, feathered, and furry friend is designed by T-Lab., a studio in Japan, and painstakingly carved, polished, and painted by a team of artisans. Available in dozens of adorable animal shapes; see our full collection here, and read about their adventures in the rikumo journal. Recommended for ages 5 and up. About T-Lab."From our hand to your hand" is the heartwarming philosophy behind these animal companions from Japanese design studio T-Lab. By using sustainable lumber and taking their time shaping each cute creature - they refer to their process as polepole, which means "slowly" in Swahili - the artisans at T-Lab. transform flora into fauna, creating charming examples of the natural world while respecting its finite bounty. Materials: Albizia woodDimensions: 2 ¾" L x 1 ¼" W x 1 ¾" HHyogo Prefecture, Japan

After seeing the beautiful indigo pleats at the Kazumi Tanaka exhibit, we've been obsessed with Shibori . This Japanese method of resist dyeing involves binding, knotting, twisting and pressing fabric to achieve patterns and designs. By restricting areas the

See fireworks illustrated almost 150 years ago by Jinta Hirayama, a forefather of modern Japanese pyrotechnics.

See fireworks illustrated almost 150 years ago by Jinta Hirayama, a forefather of modern Japanese pyrotechnics.

Fish has been a festive staple of holiday dinners worldwide, especially in cultures that don’t eat red meat. Our take on the classic involves citrus, ginger, and cast iron.

From her downtown Brooklyn studio, Hiroko Takeda handcrafts inventive, sculptural textile works. In this interview and studio tour, she shares her background and inspirations.

This cult classic pocket knife has been produced in Japan since 1904. Made from carbon steel for strength, the Higonokami pocket knife features a hand-forged blade that folds into the base and a small latch to reopen it safely. The Japanese characters for Higonokami are engraved on the metallic base, letting you carry a little piece of Japanese history with you wherever you go. Not for use on a keychain. About Higonokami KnivesIn the 19th century, a blacksmith in Kyushu is said to have added a simple lever to a basic pocket knife to help open and close the blade more easily. The knife proved to be successful and a guild was formed to oversee the manufacturing of the knife. Only those belonging to the guild could manufacture the knife and use the respected name Higo No Kami, which translates to "Lord of Higo" in honor of the Lord of Kyushu. Today, each higonokami knife is still handmade by the last remaining maker in the guild, Nagao Seisakusho. Materials: Nickel, carbon steelDimensions: Blade: 1.5"; Folded: 2.05"Care: After use, wipe away any stains with a cloth and camellia oil or other anti-rust oils. Store in a place free from moisture.Hyogo, Japan

See fireworks illustrated almost 150 years ago by Jinta Hirayama, a forefather of modern Japanese pyrotechnics.

Fish has been a festive staple of holiday dinners worldwide, especially in cultures that don’t eat red meat. Our take on the classic involves citrus, ginger, and cast iron.

Ideal for everything from frying on a stovetop to baking in the oven, a high-quality cast-iron pan is an essential investment for every kitchen. This style is skillfully forged from robust Japanese iron that distributes heat evenly along its surface. With just a little oil, its naturally nonstick surface can sear a steak or bake a cobbler with equal ease. Versatile and practically indestructible, this classic skillet is an indispensable cooking companion for life. About IwachuA master maker of tetsubin - iron teapots - since 1902, Iwachu is one of the biggest names in cast iron cookware. Every piece created by their artisans offers a grounded aesthetic rooted in traditional craftsmanship and informed by generations of experience. By embracing their past, their workshop is able to produce beautiful, long-lasting ironware with a human touch. Materials: Cast ironDimensions: Small: 14.4" L (with handle) x 8.5" D x 1.5" HLarge: 16" L (with handle) x 9.75" D x 1.5" HCare: Scrub lightly with warm water. For stubborn food remnants, use a touch of dish soap and a nylon scouring pad. Always thoroughly dry pan after each use, apply a light layer of vegetable oil with a towel, and store. Do not put pan in the dishwasher or soak in water. Dry immediately after use to prevent rust. Morioka, Japan

With its simple form and expressive texture, this oval plate from Tokyo-based ceramicist Kodama Toki makes a perfect complement to almost any tablescape. There are times when we crave pancakes or pizza; this is a plate for such a time. Please note: Due to the handmade nature of this collection, there may be slight variations in texture, color, or shape. However, the artisanal quality of Kodama Toki's work is uniform across every piece. Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions. About Kodama TokiKodama Toki is a one-woman ceramics studio run by artist Kiyomi Kodama. Each piece constitutes its own unique expression of her artwork, as they are all made by hand using plaster molds. The glaze with which Kodama Toki pieces are finished lends an additional air of individuality while imparting a pleasant tactile quality to her minimalist cups and tableware. Materials: PorcelainDimensions:9.25" L x 5" W x 0.75" HCare: Hand wash. Not microwave safe. Avoid excessive temperatures.Tokyo, Japan

Fearlessly embrace the night with the CALM Light. This simple lighting solution can be easily installed without any need for an outlet and automatically lights up your space when the sun has set, while during the day it acts as an inconspicuous piece of home decor in your choice of walnut, maple, or cherry. The LED light source creates no heat and is powered by two AA batteries that can be recharged with a micro-USB cable. Winner of the 2015 Good Design Award. About TwodoIt was the partnership of two engineers - Masahiko Shindo, an electrical engineer, and Kozo Ando, an architect - that lead to the creation of Twodo, the lighting brand of design company Shindo Denki Sekkei. The pair focuses on fashioning useful and beautiful objects that embody three concepts: "Simple, Warm and New." Materials: Oil-finished natural wood, ABS, acrylicDimensions: L: 2.56” x W: 2.56” x H: .79”Light source: LED (warm white, 2700K)Power supply: Two built-in rechargeable AA batteries (can be replaced with commercially available AA batteries) Battery life: More than 1 month per charge (when lighting for 12 hours a day), with up to 2100 charges per set of built-in batteriesKatagami, Japan

Crafted using boar's hair by one of Japan's finest brush-makers, the Kanaya Double-Sided Nail Brush gently scrubs under your fingernails to clear away dirt and grime - perfect for keeping your nails and cuticles healthy and clean after a day spent gardening or working with your hands. About KanayaOriginally established as Ouchi Brush Shop in 1914, Kanaya Brush Industry Co. was twice destroyed - first by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1918 and later during World War II - only to rise again each time. Today, the dedicated experts at Kanaya's headquarters in Tokyo dream up ever more inventive ways to improve upon the brushes in our everyday lives while remaining grounded in traditional Japanese design. Materials: Boar’s hair, woodDimensions: 4" L x 1" W x 1" H Tokyo, Japan

See fireworks illustrated almost 150 years ago by Jinta Hirayama, a forefather of modern Japanese pyrotechnics.

These small albizia wood animals are ideal gifts for children and adults alike. Their endearing designs brighten up any counter, desk, or table and remind us of the life that can be found in even the inanimate. Each scaly, feathered, and furry friend is designed by T-Lab., a studio in Japan, and painstakingly carved, polished, and painted by a team of artisans. Available in dozens of adorable animal shapes; see our full collection here, and read about their adventures in the rikumo journal. Recommended for ages 5 and up. About T-Lab."From our hand to your hand" is the heartwarming philosophy behind these animal companions from Japanese design studio T-Lab. By using sustainable lumber and taking their time shaping each cute creature - they refer to their process as polepole, which means "slowly" in Swahili - the artisans at T-Lab. transform flora into fauna, creating charming examples of the natural world while respecting its finite bounty. Materials: Albizia woodDimensions: 2 ½" L x 1 ¼" W x 3" HHyogo Prefecture, Japan

This handsome, rikumo-branded Six-Panel Baseball Cap is crafted from an eco-friendly blend of scrap fabrics and sustainably sourced cotton with a brim of recycled plastic. Its unisex design features a concealable rear strap that allows for easy size adjustments. The cap's unique appearance comes from a fabric - 9.5 oz bull denim - that weds superior durability with a distinctive woven aesthetic. Aside from its plastic inner brim, all elements of the cap's construction are biodegradable, and all cuttings from its creation are reused by the manufacturer. Every cap sold supports a supply chain based on fair wages and ethical sourcing. Rikumo Since its creation in 2009, the purpose behind Rikumo has not wavered. Our founder, Yuka Morihata, envisioned the brand as a door to the world of Japanese design, one that brings the peerless efforts of little-known artists and world-renowned craftspeople from the workshops of Kyoto and Yokkaichi to the homes of design-minded people everywhere. By connecting ancient techniques and the work they produce with a modern international public who appreciates beauty, quality, and simplicity, rikumo continues to support the unique character and artistry of traditional Japanese design. Ardmore, PA Materials: 50% recycled cotton, 42% sustainably sourced virgin cotton, 8% mixed recycled fibers Sizing: One size fits allHat height: 6.5"Brim length: 2.75"Circumference (adjustable): 21.5" - 23.5" Care: Machine wash warm with like colors using a gentle detergent. Hang or tumble dry low.