JapanCulture•NYC’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide is here with a round-up of all-Japanese holiday markets or pop-up shopping events this December. This curated list will help you find that special gift while supporting local businesses or vendors in a one-stop-shopping situation.

Bin Bin Sake Holiday Market

29 Norman Avenue, Brooklyn

Sunday, December 8 from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

The first market this season is Bin Bin Sake’s third annual holiday market this Sunday, December 8. Holiday gifts, Japanese crafts, and delicious treats by local artists and vendors will be available for sale. There’s four six for’s jewelry, home goods like Wuhao’s tenugui and Towka’s candles, and art prints from illustrator Megan Troung, plus much more. For the foodies on your shopping list, there are some tasty gifts such as MiMAKi’s premium umeboshi sour pickled plums and fresh onigiri from HIBINO day by day.

For a full list of vendors, please see Bin Bin’s Instagram post here. In addition, there will be bottle engraving and Bin Bin merchandise, perfect for that sake lover in your life. As you shop, be sure to participate in the free sake tasting!

Niji Holiday Market

Japan Village – 934 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn (2nd floor)

Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15 from Noon until 6:00 p.m.

Niji Japanese makers market is back at Japan Village for their holiday shopping event. Explore unique creations from more than 20 Japanese craft vendors for the ultimate gifts this season. Jewelry offerings range from Pucci Ropa’s handmade metal pieces to Rockin’ Wasabi’s origami jewelry and chocolateclayyy’s sculpted earrings. For home goods gifts, vendors such as HANATURAL will be selling handmade Japanese-inspired soaps along with pottery by some local potters like Namiko Kato and Hiroko Yokotagawa. Kawaii-style gifts will be available from HikariwoSagasu, Boy Oh Boy Co., and Tharaphy NY. For a full list of vendors, please see Niji’s Instagram post here.

A Night with the Makers: Holiday Edition

The Makers Guild – 51 35th Street, Brooklyn (2nd floor)

Saturday, December 7, Saturday, December 14, and Saturday, December 21 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The Makers Guild is hosting a holiday shopping series every Saturday until Christmas. It’s not just shopping; it’s an experience with live music, complimentary drinks, tastings, gift guides, and other activities. Of the participating shops, four of them are Japanese women-owned businesses that you need to be sure to check out:

Logo and right photo from n+a; bottom right photo by Jen Green

n+a jewelry was established in 2007 by Japanese sisters Noriko and Akiko Sugawara from Yokohama, Japan. Pulling inspiration from both the city and nature, while combining it their unique perspectives and Japanese sensibilities, the sisters create original and timeless designs.

Logo and left photo from Tadaima; right photo by Jen Green

Tadiama bakery has been a staple at The Makers Guild with a fan following and long lines for their delicious baked goods and intricate, beautifully garnished beverages. But it’s more than a bakery; it’s a quaint Japanese gift shop, too. With items like candles, stationery, and home décor that owner, Ayaka Ando, sources on her trips back home to Japan, you can pick up a gift for someone while you treat yourself to one of those coveted Tadiama pastries.

On December 14 Tadiama is hosting a fine coffee pop-up featuring 95RPM Coffee Roaster, serving hand-brewed coffee from this Brooklyn based micro-roaster.

IPPIN PROJECT is collective of Japanese artisans’ products that are handcrafted using traditional Japanese techniques to create high quality designs. The products they carry are not mass-produced in Japan; they are made from limited materials by skilled artisans. IPPIN PROJECT also produces custom-made furniture using traditional Japanese materials with a contemporary twist. From pottery to kitchenware and home decor to jewelry, IPPIN PROJECT offers many options for the ultimate gift.

KAJIHA’s owner Sonoko Kaneko uses natural resources to create botanical arrangements, objects, preserves, and natural-scent products in her Brooklyn studio, which is connected to IPPIN PROJECT.

Outside the hours of A Night with the Makers, KAJIHA also offers workshops where you can create your own unique gift. Spots are limited as the workshops are done in small groups for one-on-one attention with the instructor. Please check out the schedule here and consider giving a gift you’ve made yourself.

TEN TEN NYC Presents: Kawaii Holiday

Ideal Glass Studios – 9 West 8th Street, New York

Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15
Ticketed time slots: December 14 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; December 15 at 10:00 a.m.

TEN TEN NYC is hosting THE kawaii event of the holiday season in NYC, and it’s so much more than a holiday market. Join them for a two-day celebration of Japanese “kawaii” culture that includes music, art, performance, workshops, and a market of local vendors. Immersive installations by local artists offer the perfect backdrop while the kawaii fashion challenge is a great chance to show off your festive kawaii holiday looks.

Sebastian Masuda, Godfather of Kawaii, is hosting a workshop on Saturday, December 14 as well as bringing items from his iconic Harajuku shop 6%DOKIDOKI for their first NYC pop-up! Saturday’s workshop is your chance to make a custom 12-inch teddy bear with decora materials provided by Sebastian Masuda Studio Tokyo. Tickets to this limited-seat experience also include VIP perks such as a lecture by Masuda and a photoshoot opportunity.

Other artists and designers participating in the market are Breanna Watson with various accessories featuring her illustrations, Harrison Scott with his iconic bags, Shampooty with one-of-a-kind collectibles that evoke childhood nostalgia in a cheeky way, and many more!

Come out to this Kawaii Holiday Wonderland to get festively creative, have fun, and get some shopping done.

But Wait, There’s More . . .

In addition to these holiday markets, here are two more opportunities to secure a Japanese gift this season at these month-long shopping events:

YAMMA Holiday POP UP

CIBONE 50 Norman Avenue, Brooklyn

Now through Sunday, January 5, 2025

Every day from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. (Closed every third Tuesday)

Curated by YAMMA brand director Nana Yamasaki and hosted at CIBONE in Greenpoint, this holiday pop-up features brands Yammakko, HARAPPA, Yammaman. Known for genderless and timeless pieces made from traditional Japanese cotton Aizu Momen, YAMMA brand’s styles boast clean lines and colorful combinations. Aizu Momen is durable cotton made by using a traditional craft techniques that have been preserved in old Aizu region in Fukushima Prefecture.

Niji Japanese Seasonal Shop

Tangram Flushing 133-33 39th Avenue, Flushing

Saturdays and Sundays in December from Noon until 6:00 p.m.

A second Niji market is set up all month long at Tangram in Flushing, Queens. Items range from fresh fruit from Japan to accessories, pottery, soaps, stickers, and more! HANATURAL will also sell their handmade Japanese-inspired soaps here. Bun’s Blooms brings her joyous art to stickers and keychains.

Heartfish Press is selling festive wreaths and hosting a workshop on Sunday, December 22. Here is another opportunity to create a thoughtful handmade gift that the recipient will cherish. For more details and to register in advance, please check out Niji’s website.

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Susan McCormac 10/3/24 Susan McCormac 10/3/24

SAKE DAY CELEBRATION CONTINUES

World Sake Day 2024

Friday, October 4 from 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

The W Loft Rooftop – 240 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn

Admission: $65 to $80

Sake Lovers, Rejoice!

Get ready to raise your glasses and celebrate the rich traditions of Japanese sake! Upstairs NYC is teaming up with MIKA and Niji as World Sake Day by MIKA returns for its third year, offering an unforgettable sake-tasting experience. Taking place at the W Loft, this event will feature more than 50 premium sake selections from 25+ renowned brands. Immerse yourself in the intricate flavors of Japan’s finest craft sake and discover why this iconic beverage is beloved worldwide.

In addition to the tasting, enjoy a vibrant pop-up market showcasing the unique creations of talented Asian artists. This is more than just a tasting—it’s a sensory journey into the world of sake and Asian craftsmanship.

What Your Admission Includes

Tasting of 15 kinds of sake and sake cocktails
Original sake glass
Free sake and food sampling while supplies last
Explore Asian shop and food marketplace

Event Highlights

Ultimate sake selections: more than 70 premium sakes by 35 breweries, including many award-winners
Matcha sake cocktails by WESAKE X SENBIRD
Special sake cocktails designed by L'Americana and Midnight Blue owner and bartender Takuma Watanabe (from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.)
Offerings from Kochi and Ishikawa Prefectures
Mouthwatering sushi and Japanese cuisine delights
Asian Artisan Marketplace
Complimentary portrait drawing by UTGP2020 + MoMA contest award-winning artist Hiroshi Masuda
A premier rooftop space with elegant waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline
A dedicated photo booth where you and your crew can snap unforgettable memories

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit Upstairs NYC’s website.

Susan McCormac 2/9/24 Susan McCormac 2/9/24

Find Handmade Crafts at Katagiri This Weekend

Valentine’s Day Craft Fair

Saturday, February 10 from Noon until 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 11 from Noon until 4:00 p.m.

Katagiri – 224 E. 59th Street (between 2nd and 3rd Avenues)

Admission: Free

Niji Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop is having its first craft fair at Japanese grocery store Katagiri. At this two-day event, artists will be offering dried flowers, handmade accessories, and kimono bags. Find the perfect gift for your Valentine while shopping for Japanese groceries!

Participating Artists

fancy pop
Cute handmade jewelry and accessories made of resin and air-dry clay including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, hair pins, and more!

Bead Factory Ever Green/ビーズ工房 Ever Green
Origami accessories (earrings and hair ornaments) that can be used for both casual and formal occasions.

水引装飾Twilight
Mizuhiki accessories made from a traditional Japanese paper string used for celebrations and as a decoration to wish for happiness.

ryuroru
ryuroru creates accessories with 925 silver for all ages and all genders. The main concepts behind the brand are sea, space, and simple.

MEINFINITY
Handbags made from Japanese fabrics that let you carry a piece of Japanese culture with you.

Heartfish
Heartfish Press is a creative studio located in Brooklyn, specializing in letterpress printing and floral design. The studio offers a variety of letterpress prints, cards, and custom design services that involve creating floral designs using dried flowers.

About Niji

NYK Marketing, based in New York, is a marketplace that serves as a bridge connecting Japanese artists with people from around the world. It was born from the desire to expand the reach of Japanese artists globally.

Their main platform is the e-commerce site niji, where you can purchase artworks by various artists from around the world. They also organize the Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop events, where customers can meet the artists in person.

About Katagiri

The oldest Asian grocery store in New York, Katagiri has been selling Japanese fish, meats, produce, and snacks since 1907. They have two Manhattan locations: the original store on E. 59th Street and one near Grand Central.

Katagiri 59th Street
224 E. 59th Street (between 2nd and 3rd Avenues)
Phone: 212-755-3566
Hours: Every day from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Katagiri Grand Central
370 Lexington Avenue, Suite #107
Phone: 917-472-7025
Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Susan McCormac 10/5/23 Susan McCormac 10/5/23

NIJI-JAPANESE ARTIST POP UP SHOP TO HOLD MARKET AT RESOBOX

Autumn Japanese Maker’s Market

Sunday, October 22 from 12:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

RESOBOX – 91 3rd Street (at 1st Avenue)

Admission: Free

Discover Japanese-inspired accessories and art at niji-Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop’s craft show at RESOBOX in the East Village.

Accessories such as earrings, necklaces, and more Japanese-inspired products will be on sale, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet the artists in person, hear their stories, and learn about the intricate details behind each item. Discover truly unique and creative works for yourself, or find the perfect gift for your loved ones.

To learn more about the vendors and reserve your spot, please visit niji-Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop’s Eventbrite page.

Participating Vendors

Chocolateclayyy – Polymer clay and resin jewelry and sculptures
Kazaria3 – Handmade hats made of used Japanese kimono fabric
Usagiduck – Stationery, apparel, and art prints of original character Usagiduck and their animal friends
Pucci Ropa Jewelry – Handmade sterling silver/brass jewelry in organic and abstract shapes
satokomatsu – “Word picture” jewelry
Hooks and Luxe – Accessories made from eco-friendly materials
Unipaca Studio – Handmade stationery items such as vinyl stickers, sticker sheets, and acrylic keychains
Karepango – Whimsical art that celebrates the satirical side of everyday life
TeaLoveCrochet – Knit and crocheted accessories inspired by food, Harajuku, and the artist’s Asian American culture
Poiful Rugs – Handcrafted rugs inspired by Japanese culture and nature
Fragrant Olive – Handmade soaps with Japanese koi fish and makeup bags using Japanese fabrics
Riverside Wrapping Co. – Mizuhiki (Japanese paper cords) accessories
Nappel – “Pop Up Sox” baby socks that are made of organic cotton and have 3D animal ears that “pop up”

Crafting Workshops

Before the event begins, there will be two crafting workshops from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Soap Making Workshop by Tamami

Cost: $30 (includes materials for two soaps)

Accomplished instructor Tamami, the founder of the esteemed handmade brand Fragrant Olive, will guide participants as they craft two unique handmade soaps: a rabbit soap with natural exfoliant and a teddy bear sandwich soap. To register, please visit niji-Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop’s website.

Let’s Make Teru Teru Bozu Ghost Amigurumi with Petrina/TeaLoveCrochet

Cost: $35 (includes yarn, crochet hook, and accessories)

“Amigurumi” is the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting small stuffed animals or toys using yarn and a hook or needles, often resulting in cute and charming creatures. A “teru teru bozu” is a Japanese talisman made to stop the rain and bring good weather. Petrina of TeaLoveCrochet will teach participants simple crochet stitches and how to read a pattern to make a cute teru teru bozu ghost, perfect for this spooky season! To register, please visit niji-Japanese Artist Pop Up Shop’s website.

JapanCulture•NYC’s Holiday Gift Guide