A New Expression of Japanese Aesthetics and Global Luxury

Opening in the historic location of the former UNITED ARROWS Harajuku flagship, TABAYA United Arrows represents the most elevated vision in the company's history. More than a retail destination, it is a carefully curated cultural space where fashion, craftsmanship, art, food, and design come together through a distinctly Japanese perspective.

At the heart of the concept is a belief long championed by UNITED ARROWS founder Osamu Shigematsu:

"The more Japanese something is, the more international it becomes."

In a world where major cities increasingly resemble one another through global luxury brands, international coffee chains, and shared cultural references, TABAYA seeks to offer an alternative. It invites visitors to rediscover the uniqueness of Japanese culture while exploring its ongoing dialogue with the wider world.

Curating the Extraordinary

Since its founding in 1989, UNITED ARROWS has pursued the creation of new standards for Japanese lifestyle culture. With TABAYA, the company shifts its perspective inward, exploring the essence of Japanese aesthetics and reexamining Western influences through a Japanese lens.

The store's selection spans far beyond fashion. Visitors will encounter objects, artworks, craft pieces, and everyday tools that reflect cultural exchange across generations and geographies. Whether inspired by Japan or influential in shaping it, every item is chosen through the discerning eye that has defined UNITED ARROWS for decades.

This philosophy traces back to the company's founding principle of "Senmon Jakka" ("Specialized Ten Goods"), emphasizing thoughtful selection over endless assortment. In an age overwhelmed by products and information, TABAYA embraces the value of meaningful curation.

The Beauty Behind Everyday Life

Leading the project is Director Maiko Tamura, whose vision is rooted in the subtle sensibilities of Japanese culture.

"For me, beauty is found in the wisdom accumulated through generations," Tamura explains. "Japanese culture celebrates harmony, seasonality, and refinement in everyday life. Beyond craftsmanship and quality, we want to share the spirit behind these traditions through people, products, and space, creating not only comfort but also discovery, inspiration, and emotional uplift."

She points to cultural practices such as anticipating the next season through clothing motifs or creating an impression of coolness through fabric choice. These gestures reflect a uniquely Japanese way of enriching daily life through imagination and nuance.

For TABAYA, true beauty lies in objects that remain meaningful across time. They are authentic creations that continue to inspire, adapt, and invite interpretation long after trends fade.

A Visual Identity Designed to Endure

The visual identity of TABAYA United Arrows was developed by renowned Japanese art director Kaoru Kasai, whose relationship with UNITED ARROWS spans decades.

When approached with the ambition of creating the company's "highest expression," Kasai saw both challenge and opportunity. His goal was to create something timeless rather than fashionable.

Central to the identity is TABAYA Blue, a distinctive color positioned between traditional navy and a brighter sky blue. The shade symbolizes a dialogue between heritage and modernity, reflecting the brand's ambition to establish a lasting point of reference rather than follow fleeting trends.

"The highest expression is not necessarily the most luxurious," says Kasai. "It should become a standard, something with enduring value and relevance. My focus was to create a design that could feel timeless, as though it existed beyond any specific era."

A Place for Discovery

TABAYA is housed within the iconic building designed by celebrated Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill, who once described it as a "small jewel box."

Deeply inspired by Japanese culture, Bofill saw the building as a reflection of Japanese humility and extraordinary craftsmanship. Rather than reinventing the structure,

UNITED ARROWS chose to preserve and extend its original spirit.

The experience unfolds across multiple floors, featuring fashion collections, contemporary art, antiques, crafts, lifestyle objects, a gallery space, and a café and bar that showcase seasonal Japanese ingredients. Each area has been designed to encourage meaningful encounters with exceptional objects and ideas.

Ultimately, TABAYA United Arrows is more than a store. It is a destination where visitors can reconnect with familiar values, discover something entirely new, and experience the richness of Japanese culture through a contemporary global lens. Through the pursuit of beauty in its purest form, TABAYA aims to create memorable encounters and truly inspiring experiences.

Discover TABAYA Anywhere in the World

While TABAYA United Arrows is designed as a destination to experience Japanese culture, craftsmanship, and hospitality in person, the journey does not end in Harajuku.

A carefully selected assortment of TABAYA products is also available through the UNITED ARROWS Global Online Store, allowing customers around the world to bring a piece of this unique experience into their daily lives. From apparel and accessories to artisanal craft objects and lifestyle goods, each item reflects the same philosophy of timeless beauty, authenticity, and thoughtful curation that defines the TABAYA experience.

Whether visiting Tokyo or browsing from abroad, TABAYA invites you to discover objects that enrich everyday life and connect you to the enduring spirit of Japanese craftsmanship and culture.