AKIHABARA

CULTURE

The Craft Japan: an art and craft specialty shop in Narita Airport Terminal 2

Japan has developed its unique culture through appreciation of different cultures. In this article, we are introducing a shop that embodies this unique Japanese culture.

On August 7, 2025, an art and craft specialty shop, The Craft Japan, opened in the area past the international flight security check on the third floor of Narita International Airport Terminal 2. The shop’s concept is “Cool Nippon.” With the three themes of “food,” “festival,” and “art & anime,” it is a new hub for sharing Japanese culture, offering a wide range of items from traditional ones to those with a more modern interpretation. In this article, we would like to report on our visit to the shop!

The first thing that caught our eyes were blue glaze ornaments in beautiful shades of Persian blue made by pottery studio Koubeigama. We were left speechless, captivated by the deep blue shades created through Japan’s blue and white ceramics technique. This section at the front of the shop is for special events, so the items on these shelves change from time to time. ★Click here for more details about Koubeigama

The captivating Egyptian Gods series with beautiful blue hues (Koubeigama)

The glamorous shop interior with walls decorated with gold leaf

Another thing that caught our eyes was Edo kiriko crystal rocks glasses. These beautiful glasses, adorned with kiriko patterns etched by skilled artisans and immaculately portraying iconic Japanese paintings, are truly mesmerizing. ★Click here for more details about Edo kiriko

Crystal rocks glasses with beautiful reflections of light (Harisho Yamada Glass)

They also carry a variety of cups, such as ones created through the fusion of two different Kaga artisanal techniques—Kanazawa gold leaf and Kutani ware. They are guaranteed to add charm and elegance to celebratory occasions. Fill them with Japanese sake, enjoy the golden shimmer on the liquid’s surface, and indulge yourself in a moment of luxury. ★Click here for more details about Hakuichi

Sake cups, dessert cups, and a variety of other cups are available. (Hakuichi)

As you walk further into the shop, you’ll find a portable shrine, an essential part of Japanese festivals! And yes, you can purchase this compact yet authentic portable shrine, adorned in meticulous detail, created by hand by artisans. It is a rare sight that a portable shrine is sold at airport duty-free shops!

Every single component is one of a kind and made exclusively for The Craft Japan. (Nakadai Manufacturing)

They also carry products of Kyoto Denim, a brand that makes products by combining denim and Kyo-yuzen textiles that are used for kimono and other garments. Not only do they let you appreciate the traditional craftsmanship, but they are also suitable for a wide range of occasions. ★Click here for more details about Kyoto Denim

These patterns are all created by hand by artisans. (Kyoto Denim)

Last but not least, let’s check out the art and anime section. This section is all about Japanese art and anime, which are key elements of Japanese pop culture famous around the world. One particularly striking piece is a hanging scroll of Godzilla—a beloved national icon representing Japanese cinema—painted by ink wash artist Hakudou! It is truly amazing how Godzilla is portrayed with such overwhelming presence using only varying shades of black and white.

The texture of Godzilla is meticulously depicted using only brushwork. (Kaitakudo) TM & © TOHO CO., LTD.

The items introduced here are just a small part of what the shop has to offer. The Craft Japan is a perfect place for appreciating the beauty and sophistication of Japan. We highly recommend stopping by there if you are using Narita Airport Terminal 2.

■DATA The Craft Japan Area past the international flight security check, 3F, Terminal2, Narita Airport Opening hours: 7:30 - 21:30 The Craft Japan special website: https://www.fasola.jp/en/contents.aspx?contentsId=thecraftjapan The Craft Japan official Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/the_craft_japan/

(Information as of September 2025)

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