Photographer Shin Hamada captures working people and Keen’s unique style.

KEEN’s classic “UNEEK.” Part sandal, part sneaker—with its iconic design, it has become an undisputed staple of the brand.

With summer 2026 just around the corner, we’ve selected five unique shops—captured by photographer Shin Hamada as part of a project spotlighting 100 people from all corners of the country who love this unique series—in our own Fuinam style.

Shop 01_ALLEY CATS

"ALLEY CATS" in Yutenji, which opened in 2023, is a popular spot where you can enjoy thoughtful breakfast options from early in the morning, such as smash burgers and avocado toast. It took over the site of a long-standing local 100-yen shop, and the storefront sign—which was left as-is—has become its trademark. The staff working there are all unique and full of personality.

Tetsuya Sonoda, Owner of ALLEY CATS (UNEEK WK); Riko Matsumura, ALLEY CATS Staff Member (UNEEK); Yu Fukushima, ALLEY CATS Staff Member (UNEEK)

Shop 02_Mount Kawachi

Trekking has been gaining more and more attention lately. Located in Tochigi City, Kawachi-dake is a cutting-edge outdoor gear shop that focuses specifically on the UL (ultralight) style, offering products that allow you to move freely between the mountains and the city. It’s a hidden gem known only to those in the know, where the owner—who previously worked in design and beatmaking in Tokyo—brings his fresh and dope eye for quality to the shop.

Shiro Kojima, Owner of Kawachidake (UNEEK 360); Rika Aoki, Staff Member at Kawachidake (UNEEK)

Shop 03_Mita Sneakers

“mita sneakers,” the renowned Ueno store known worldwide as a specialty store setting global standards from Tokyo. With Mr. Kunii—who has served as the store’s frontman for many years—curating the sneaker collection based on his discerning eye—such as his early recognition and promotion of Keen’s “Unique” line—the selection continues to garner enthusiastic support from sneakerheads, both past and present.

Hideyuki Kunii, Director of Mita Sneakers (UNEEK II CONVERTIBLE)

Shop 04_ROLLS

”ROLLS,” a donut shop that opened in Sano City in 2025, has quickly gained attention for its vibrantly decorated donuts and unique "fluffy yet chewy" texture. Captivated by the donuts—which are carefully made from scratch every day right in the shop—fans flock here not only from the neighborhood but also from across the prefecture and beyond. The shop is so popular that the day’s supply sometimes sells out around noon. The large sign adorning the roadside exudes a quintessential American countryside vibe and adds a lot of charm.

Kiri, ROLLS Owner (UNEEK 360); sugar maiko, Donut Baker (UNEEK WK); Katerine Asato, ROLLS Staff (UNEEK); Kurumi Suzuki, ROLLS Staff (UNEEK); Marina Morita, ROLLS Staff/Farmer (UNEEK)

Shop 05_BAMBOO SHOOTS

“BAMBOO SHOOTS” has been a fixture in Nakameguro for nearly 30 years. From its early days, the store has offered products that bridge urban life and the great outdoors, and it remains a beloved institution that transcends trends. The laid-back city-outdoor style proposed by Mr. Kai, who has served as the store’s director since its opening, continues to captivate many fans to this day.

Kazuhiko Kai, BAMBOO SHOOTS (UNEEK)

Every one of these shops is a gem where the personalities of the owners and staff truly shine through. If you’re ever in the area, please feel free to stop by and take a look.

Text_Jumpei Ichikawa