-
Yosuke Ishii
-
Hiroshi Yamamoto
-
Shuhei Wakiyama
-
Seiya Kato
-
Yuri Sudo
-
Kazuki Sakaguchi
It wasn't much different from Japan.
I went to Thailand for the first time in a while. I checked out a variety of vintage clothes, and compared to before, the pricing seemed much more consistent—I got the impression that the vintage culture has really taken root there. Before the pandemic, I could buy “Glyced” for 4,500 yen and “91-J” for 6,600 yen at the night markets… I went hoping for a miracle, but it seems unlikely now.
MIZUNO
Mizuno Wave Prophecy Ring Mock by Setsu Masako Hayashi
A sequel to a classic is also a classic.
The design approach of combining traditional shoe lasts with high-tech soles—which is now taken for granted—was first realized by Setsumasa Kobayashi, founder of Mizuno and Mountain Research, in the “INFINITY
MOC,” released in 2007. Now, Mr. Setsumasa Kobayashi—who heads both Mizuno and Mountain Research—has teamed up with them once again to create the “WAVE PROPHECY
MOC” pictured here as a follow-up to that model. With shoes like these, the greater the contrast between the upper and sole designs, the more interesting they become; however, this model has succeeded in effortlessly hybridizing two elements with completely opposite characteristics. It may sound like a cliché, but this is the quintessential example of “learning from the past to innovate for the future”—or, in other words, “tradition and innovation coexisting.” True to its name, the sole has been updated to the Wave Prophecy sole, so it’s very comfortable to wear. Well, I’ve rambled on quite a bit, but putting the technical details aside, it’s a shoe that’s exciting to look at and, above all, a joy to wear.
¥35,200
...Research General Store
03-3463-6376
mountainresearch.com
Tomo & Co
Tomo & CO's Gluca Sandals
A clever use of parts.
When I’m not satisfied with standard shoes and am looking for a pair with a unique twist, the first brand I turn to is the Japanese shoe brand *Tomo & CO*. That’s because I find the brand’s creative use of parts—with a clever twist—interesting and right up my alley. Take these Ghurka sandals, for example. While the upper design is classic, replacing the sole with a Vibram component sole gives them a truly unique look—almost like a model kit. That’s what really tickled my inner child. This component sole is attached to the upper with just a single cord—no glue required—so it’s easy to remove, and you can wash the sole on its own. That means you can wear them barefoot all summer long, no matter how hot and stuffy it gets. After enjoying them like this for a while, it’d be fun to change up the look by switching out the cord color.
¥44,000
Tomo&CO
Instagram:@tomo_and_co
tomoandco.jp
KEEN × FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’26
Keen × Fuji Rock Festival ’26: Hyperport H2
At the foot of the festival.
Every year around this time, I struggle to choose the right shoes for Fuji Rock, but this year I’ve already made up my mind. It’s the “Hyperport
H2” from Keen. That’s because I wore these for all three days last year, and they were just so comfortable. They offer the stability and comfort of sneakers while providing the open, airy feel of sandals. Plus, they provide solid protection for my toes, so safety is a given. They’re fine even when wet, so I can even play in the river at Tokoro Heaven while still wearing them. I’ve tried all kinds of shoes at summer festivals over the years, but for me, the “Hyperport
H2” is the perfect pair. Since it’s such a special occasion this year, I plan to buy the Fuji Rock collaboration model shown in the photo. The tree camo on the upper and the glow-in-the-dark accents are perfect for the Naeba setting!
¥16,500
"Kiing" (sound effect)
www.keenfootwear.jp
Nozawa Onsen.
It’s that time of year again in Nozawa. “The 4100D Mountain Trail in Nozawa Onsen”—I’ve signed up for the 65km race again, despite my past experience. Since I had to drop out (DNF) last year due to heatstroke, I’m thinking of giving it another shot this time.
MIZUNO
Mizuno Trail Running Shoes
A design that takes you by surprise.
Lately, Japan’s legendary sports brand, Mizuno, has been making waves. The Wave Rider—a classic running shoe now in its 30th generation—has been reimagined with a graphic design, and the brand has captured over 50% of the market share for soccer cleats among middle and high school students. In terms of actual sales, the company has achieved record-high performance for four consecutive fiscal periods—in short, it’s in top form. Amid all this, what personally caught my eye was this trail running shoe, the “Mizuno NeoAccela.” Featuring a bold design with original graphics covering everything from the upper to the midsole, it incorporates a unique sole shape designed to reduce strain on tendons and ligaments. Combined with the familiar Mizuno Wave technology, it allows you to enjoy supreme cushioning while maintaining excellent stability. This standout model breaks away from the brand’s traditional aesthetic in the best possible way, while still delivering the reassuring feel that only Mizuno can provide. Why not give them a try for your next long-distance race?
22,000 yen
Mizuno Customer Service Center
0120-320-799
jpn.mizuno.com
LIVRER × PROGRESS RUNNING CLUB
Libre × Progress Running Club Detergent
Detergent for sportswear.
Do you do your own laundry?
I try to wash my own clothes. After all, it feels a bit awkward to hand over laundry covered in sweat and mud from running or trail running to someone else, doesn’t it? That’s why, night after night, I find myself doing laundry while rubbing the sleep from my eyes. That’s where this product comes in handy: the sportswear detergent from
〈Progress
Running
Club〉. This product was developed in collaboration with 〈Libre〉, a dry cleaning shop run by the “Laundry Brothers”—a group of laundry and care professionals. Its plant-derived cleansing agents thoroughly remove dirt and effectively eliminate that unpleasant post-run odor. What’s more, it’s gentle on both your skin and the environment while minimizing damage to your clothes—another big plus. It’s pricier than your average laundry detergent, but I think it’s definitely worth the cost.
¥3,300
Progress Running Club
progressrunningclub.jp
TANNUKI
The Raccoon Dog's Sunglasses
A teardrop that isn't too bold.
I usually keep a pair of sunglasses tucked away in my bag, and I tend to prefer the so-called square style with a plain design. I don’t go for the trendy single-lens styles, and teardrop shapes are absolutely out of the question. They never even made it onto my shortlist. But lo and behold, the pair crafted by the Japanese running brand *Tanuki* has a truly charming look. Produced by *Owl Mills*, based in Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture—a region renowned for eyewear manufacturing—they’ve achieved a rounded shape that retains a teardrop-like feel without looking too bold. Featuring top-quality Sabae-made lenses that enhance color contrast and provide a clear field of vision, you can wear them with confidence even while running. This gentle teardrop design is the result of a collaboration between Tanuki’s unique creativity and Owl Mills’ technical expertise. It looks like it’ll be a great addition to my summer wardrobe.
¥19,800
raccoon dog
shop.tannuki.jp
Headaches in June.
Every day, my head just doesn’t feel clear. It feels like my head is being gripped tightly in an eagle’s claw. I don’t know if it’s true or not, but I heard that Susumu Hirasawa’s *The Sage’s Propeller* helps with headaches, so I gave it a listen—and it put me in a truly strange mood. And actually, it does seem to be making me feel a little better… I think I’ll give it a listen for a while, along with a certain classic album that’s now available on streaming services to mark its 20th anniversary.
mont-bell
Montbell's Samue
Summer in Japan, Work Jackets.
The season when I only want to wear short sleeves is just around the corner. But there are plenty of times when I feel like I’m about to succumb to the air conditioning. That’s when Montbell’s “WIC. Breeze
Samue” suddenly crossed my mind. It’s made from “WIC.Cron® Breeze,” a fabric introduced this spring and summer that’s suitable even for summer trekking. It has a smooth, linen-like feel and combines excellent breathability with quick-drying properties. Montbell has taken this fabric and applied its signature “Japanese-style” approach—a hidden specialty of the brand. It’s fun to discover items that make you think, “Oh, so there’s actually something like this”—like chanchanko and hanten for fall and winter, and samue for spring and summer. Although there are pants available to wear as a set, I’d like to use it more like a jacket or a light outer layer. After all, it’s Japanese workwear—clothing designed for labor.
¥7,800
Montbell Customer Service
06-6536-5740
www.montbell.jp
Belkin
Belkin Mobile Battery
Carry Good Design with You.
There are many things I need for work, but the ones I absolutely can’t do without are my PC and smartphone. As long as I have those two, I can manage. Next, you need something to charge them—namely, a charger or a power bank. However, it’s quite rare to find one that satisfies both my functional and design preferences. In that regard, this Belkin power bank scored very high with me personally. First of all, I love its rounded, plump shape. And in terms of functionality, its all-in-one design—which includes a built-in fast-charging plug for Apple
Watch and a USB-C cable, along with 45W output and a massive 10,000mAh capacity—it’s simply perfect. In addition to this understated Charcoal Black, there’s also a Sand White version with a pop of orange, and I really like its playful vibe as well.
¥13,990
Belkin Customer Support Center
0120-532-372 (Weekdays 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.)
www.belkin.com
D'ORSAY
Dorsay Fragrances
After the rain...
I hate the rainy season. It’s because it rains nonstop. But if it doesn’t rain here, it affects the crops. When I think of it as necessary for delicious meals, I suppose it can’t be helped. It’s a phenomenon I can’t control; I don’t like it, but it brings many benefits—it’s something I’ve almost come to accept. That’s the impression the rainy season and rain have on me, but it’s also true that, depending on how you frame it, it gives rise to various stories, such as novels. In its new fragrance, “LOVE
AFTER RAIN
K.M.,” captures the moment when love blossoms amid the stillness that follows the rain. Centered around iris, the fragrance—a blend of pear, lily of the valley, ambrette, moss, and tonka bean—evokes the warmth after the rain while keeping the stifling humidity typical of Japan to a minimum. This past June made me realize that there may still be many possibilities hidden in the rain that we don’t even notice.
90 mL ¥36,300
dollar bill
dorsay.com
That moment when your excitement builds.
There are so many things that get me excited in this line of work. When I buy a cool outfit, when I discover a new brand, when I meet someone who shares my hobbies, when a photo shoot goes well in a great atmosphere, or when I receive a delicious treat. Just recently, I got really excited when I found the “perfect” backpack I’d been searching for at a trade show. The weather’s been gloomy lately, but let’s all focus on the little joys in our daily lives and keep our spirits up—don’t let the rainy season get you down!
C.P. COMPANY
CP Company Shirts
Great color, just right.
If possible, I like to wear clothes that are as comfortable (and easy to move in) as possible, so I usually wear T-shirts even at work. However, when I have plans to meet people, I try to choose outfits that aren’t too casual. But it’s really hard to find that “just right” piece, isn’t it? My own personal rules?
And if something’s too formal, I rarely get a chance to wear it. I’d been mulling over these things when, just the other day, I came across a shirt from CP Company. Crafted from soft cotton poplin in a boxy silhouette, it’s a piece that can be worn casually while still retaining classic details. The iconic garment-dyed finish delivers beautiful color and depth, and the color palette really stands out in the summer sun—it makes a great impression. The fabric has a crisp, refreshing feel, so it’s perfect not only for everyday wear but also for urban festivals. Given the price tag, I honestly don’t have the courage to wear it somewhere with rough terrain… It’s a true gem that I want to cherish and wear with care.
¥52,800
CP Company
www.cpcompany.com
HOUSSE
Usu T-shirt
He's sure to make the first team.
Even though it’s a behind-the-scenes job, I spend a lot of time around people, so I can’t let my appearance slip just because it’s hot every day. But with global warming these days, comfort is something I simply can’t overlook. In other words, if I have even one T-shirt that looks put-together, I don’t have to go all out while sweating. In situations like that, a T-shirt that’s understated yet clearly reflects your personality comes in handy. This T-shirt is crafted by *Us*, an up-and-coming Japanese brand that pays meticulous attention to everything from materials and manufacturing methods to the finest details. The standout feature is the exquisite, uneven texture achieved through the dyeing process. Of course, it’s brand new, but it has a rich, worn-in look as if it’s been “broken in” by someone—and the fact that no two pieces have exactly the same shades makes each one a truly unique “one-of-a-kind” item, which is really appealing. If you’re getting tired of basic solid-color T-shirts, you should definitely give this one a try.
¥16,500
Us
Instagram:@housse.info
BEAMS T
BEAMS T T-shirt
My own “Best Silhouette Award.”
Everyone probably owns at least one plain T-shirt. But there’s actually a lot more to them than meets the eye. I’ve tried plain T-shirts from various basic and fashion brands, but it’s really hard to find one that’s exactly what I’m looking for, isn’t it? I don’t like them if they’re too thin or too thick, too slim or too loose, or if they’re too smooth or too rough. I’m pretty picky, so that makes it even harder. But ever since I first wore 〈BEAMS T
〉 ’s “newT,” I became a huge fan right away. The fact that it’s an original from 〈BEAMS T
〉—a brand that has been using T-shirts as a canvas to showcase graphics and art from around the world—was convincing enough on its own, and I’ve been buying them regularly ever since. Now, from the “newT” line, a Made in
Japan model that prioritizes quality and texture, so I tried it on right away—and to put it mildly, it’s really good. What caught my attention most was the fit; it has a slightly sharper, more polished look than the previous versions. It’s a style that works for everyone, regardless of age or gender. It comes in three colors—why not start by trying on your favorite one?
¥14,300
Beams T
www.beams.co.jp/beamst
Pack, pack, you're so noisy!
There are countless T-shirts out there, but I wanted to introduce the absolute best ones according to Fuinam’s standards! I turned that innocent summer desire of mine into this feature. The first part of the article is...this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)So, the second part is...this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker). Just between you and me, when I found myself face-to-face with 30 face masks, I was overcome with an incredible sense of happiness and ended up hugging them all. However, I also learned the hard way that there’s nothing more tedious than opening the masks and putting them back in their packaging.
FILSON
Filson Boston Bag
The man went to Boston without saying a word.
Both Jack Nicholson, who played a Navy sergeant in the movie *Farewell to the Winter Seagulls*, and Timothée Chalamet, who played a table tennis player in the movie *Marty Supreme*, were seen clutching Boston bags. No matter how times change, the Boston bag remains the undisputed standard as a symbol of masculinity. That’s why I can’t help but be drawn to this bag from *Filson*. Made from water-repellent, highly abrasion-resistant rugged twill and bridle leather, its tough construction means it won’t buckle under any kind of stress—including rough handling by overseas baggage handlers. In fact, the more it’s put through its paces, the more character it gains. With over 120 years of crafting products with a commitment to authenticity, they’re not to be underestimated. Returning to my opening point: considering body type as well, a Boston bag really does suit men best. In this lifetime, I’ll just admire them from afar, but if I’m a man in my next life, the very first thing I’ll do is buy a Boston bag—and it’ll be a Filson, no doubt.
¥99,000
FILSON
Instagram:@filson.japan
FREITAG
Freitag Bag
Hip, hip, hooray!
There’s a trend that bags are all about being big, but personally, I prefer the smaller ones. That’s because they step away from their role as mere carriers of belongings and instead serve as a way to express your personal style. The item on the left in the photo is a Velcro-fastened micro pouch designed as an homage to messenger bags. It’s just big enough to hold change, keys, and lip balm—the bare essentials—so it works as a compact companion for any bag. You can also use it as a neck pouch by pairing it with a separately sold strap. The item on the right is a bag that attaches to a bicycle saddle; with a strap, it can double as a crossbody bag or a hip bag. It’s fun to choose one that matches the color of your bike. Incidentally, the title comes from a phrase featured on the brand’s website. While Fuinam also champions “hip” as a media outlet, Freitag is truly a brand that suits “hip people”—those who establish their own sense of style on their own terms, while keeping an eye on trends.
From left to right in the photo: ¥7,400, ¥23,000
Freitag Store Tokyo Shibuya
03-6450-5932
MACMAHON KNITTING MILLS
McMahon Knitting Mills Pouch
A Pouch You Can Take Anywhere.
To varying degrees, this is a dilemma that will follow us throughout our lives. It’s hard to find the perfect bag for every occasion. Whether I’m out for drinks with friends, taking a late-night stroll alone, wandering through tourist spots while traveling, visiting family graves during Obon, moving between locations on a photo shoot, or going on a date. While there’s certainly joy in choosing a bag to match the occasion, personally, I can’t help but wonder how wonderful it would be if a single bag could handle it all. And here’s the perfect solution I recently discovered. A pouch from *McMahon Knitting Mills*. It’s a handmade knit brand produced in Nepal, and the combination of this adorable shape with the drawstring is refreshing. It’s lined, so I don’t have to worry about my keys falling out through the mesh or my lipstick slipping out—I’m confident it’ll cover all the scenarios I mentioned at the beginning. There were various colors available, but these two polar opposites caught my eye. I’m putting an end to this lifelong dilemma right here.
Each ¥8,580
THISTIME Inc.
03-6452-3442
Instagram:@thistimeinc
Hiking by Ferry.
Early June was cooler than May. Thinking that now was the time to go on a hike in the low mountains before it got too hot, I headed to Mt. Nokogiri in Chiba. While you can get there by train or express bus, I recommend taking the Tokyo Bay Ferry from the Miura Peninsula. It feels like a little getaway and really gets you excited! Next,This articleFollowing their example, maybe I'll take the ferry to Hachijojima for a hike.
Morihisa Suzuki Studio
Tea Saucers from the Morihisa Suzuki Workshop
Quiet beauty.
I went on a business trip to Morioka. When you think of Morioka, you think of Nanbu ironware. So, I visited “Suzuki Morihisa Kobo,” a long-established workshop with a history spanning over 400 years, dating back to the Edo period. There, I purchased this tea saucer called “Kasumi.” I was drawn to its quiet beauty, reminiscent of *In Praise of Shadows*. A tea saucer is traditionally used as a base to place under a teacup. But since it’s just the right size, I thought it could be used in various ways—as a tray to hold my keys and earbuds by the front door, a dish for palo santo, a holder for small round candles, or even an ashtray—so I decided to buy it. While Nanbu ironware is typically associated with a black color, the products made by “Suzuki Morihisa Workshop” are characterized by a reddish hue. To bring out the beauty of the intricate patterns and the texture of the iron surface, they deliberately mix in a pigment called “bengara” to create a reddish-brown finish. I’ve heard that exposure to UV light causes it to fade, making the reddish hue even more pronounced, so I look forward to using it over time and enjoying how it ages.
¥3,850
Morihisa Suzuki Studio
suzukimorihisa.com
LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD®.
"Love My Neighborhood®" Marugame Uchiwa Fan
Love for the local community.
Here's another traditional craft item.This articleThis is a Marugame uchiwa fan from the ”LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD®” project by Mr. Takaiwa, the owner of “Remix Store,” which we introduced earlier. “LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD®” is a project launched to revitalize his hometown of Kagawa. It showcases the charms of Kagawa—from its deeply rooted culture, shops, and people to scenic spots and local specialties—through Instagram. I purchased this fan because I resonated with Mr. Takaiwa’s commitment to living a life that cherishes his love for his hometown and neighborhood. A distinctive feature of the Marugame uchiwa is that everything—from the handle to the ribs—is carved from a single piece of bamboo. The exquisite craftsmanship at the joints of the ribs is truly mesmerizing. The materials—bamboo from Kagawa, Tosa washi paper, and Awa starch—are all sourced entirely within Shikoku. This production process truly embodies the spirit of “LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD.” Lately, I’ve been seeing more and more people using handheld fans when it gets hot, but I think fanning yourself with a traditional uchiwa has a certain charm. It’s lighter than a handheld fan, doesn’t need to be charged, and its simplicity as a tool is a big plus.
¥3,740
Love My Neighborhood®
www.lovemyneighborhood.com
Cocoon
Cocoon Travel Sheets
Sleep soundly in silk.
I decided to go hiking in the Southern Alps in July and camp in a tent. As I was making preparations, I was unsure about what temperature-rated sleeping bag to buy. Since it’s not a cheap purchase, I wanted to use it for three seasons—spring, summer, and fall—if possible. That’s when someone recommended combining a summer sleeping bag with a sheet to cover all three seasons. Based on that advice, I first purchased a 5°C-rated sleeping bag from Enlightened Equipment. Then, I chose a travel sheet from Cocoon, an Austrian outdoor bedding brand, as my companion. When used as a liner, it raises the temperature inside the sleeping bag by 5.3 degrees. Since it’s 100% silk, it’s guaranteed to feel great against the skin. While it retains heat, its excellent moisture absorption and release properties keep the inside dry and comfortable. Another key feature is that it contains a synthetic replica of a component found in plants of the Asteraceae family, which helps keep insects at bay. It weighs just 160g, and when packed into the included pouch, it compresses down to 14.5 cm
× 7 cm, making it the perfect companion for UL hiking. In the summer, when I’m not taking it to the mountains, I plan to use it at home as a substitute for a light blanket—it’ll help block the direct airflow from the air conditioner while allowing night sweats to escape.
¥20,570
ANDF
aandfstore.com
