Name in Japanese: ザ・カバー・ニッポン (ザ・カバー・ニッポン)
Location: Midtown Galleria Building, 3rd Floor, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Check for holidays or temporary closures)
How to Find It:
• Nearest Subway Station: Roppongi Station (Hibiya Line or Oedo Line)
• Exit: Use Exit 8 from the Hibiya Line for the most convenient access. From there, it’s a short walk to Tokyo Midtown Galleria. Once inside, head to the 3rd floor, where you’ll find THE COVER NIPPON nestled among other upscale boutiques.
I took a picture of the wrong building! If you are standing and looking up from where I am standing. Turn left, it's the building next door.
A Tribute to Japan’s Artisanal Excellence
THE COVER NIPPON is far more than just a store—it’s a living gallery of Japan’s finest craftsmanship, representing artisans from every corner of the country. Located in the luxurious Midtown Galleria in Roppongi, this shop is a testament to the deep traditions, intricate techniques, and regional pride that Japanese artisans pour into their work. Whether you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind piece of pottery from a tiny workshop in Gifu or delicate textiles from Kyoto, THE COVER NIPPON connects you with Japan’s most esteemed makers.
Since opening its doors, THE COVER NIPPON has become a destination for those who appreciate not only the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship but the stories behind each piece. The shop curates items from various prefectures, highlighting the incredible diversity of styles and traditions that exist throughout Japan. From Okinawan ceramics to lacquerware from Aomori, every item in the shop has a story and a region that it represents.
A Spotlight on Renowned Artisans
One of the shop’s standout features is its commitment to showcasing the works of some of Japan’s most celebrated and exclusive artisans. Here are a few you might find represented:
• Kutani Ware (Ishikawa Prefecture): Vibrant, intricately painted ceramics known for bold designs and colors. The Maneki Neko figurine you see here is a stunning example of Kutani’s lively aesthetic, featuring iconic Japanese symbols like Mount Fuji.
• Kaga Maki-e (Ishikawa Prefecture): Gold and silver lacquer applied with delicate precision to create beautiful, luxurious designs. The watches shown here may feature this intricate technique, embodying a refined, artistic elegance.
• Arita Porcelain (Saga Prefecture): Famous for its fine, detailed blue and white designs, Arita porcelain is highly valued across the world. The plate you see here, with its serene depiction of cranes and landscapes, is a prime example of Arita-yaki’s storytelling through ceramics.
• Edo-style Tansu (Kanazawa or Edo-style): Traditional Japanese chests with ornate lacquer and metalwork. The bright red lacquer and dragon motif on the chest blend the beauty of lacquer artistry with the strength and elegance of Edo-period metal craftsmanship.
The Variety of Regions Represented
What sets THE COVER NIPPON apart from other stores is its focus on representing Japan’s distinct regional traditions. Every corner of the country has its own history, climate, and resources, all of which are reflected in the craftsmanship of its artisans. Here’s a glimpse of the regions and prefectures you’ll find represented in the shop:
• Kyushu: Known for its vibrant ceramics, particularly from regions like Imari and Karatsu. These pieces often feature bold designs with a strong influence from the region’s early interactions with Korea and China.
• Hokkaido: Home to unique woodcraft and textiles, influenced by both the natural beauty of the region and the traditions of the indigenous Ainu people.
• Shikoku: The island’s artisans are famous for producing high-quality paper (washi) and indigo-dyed textiles, reflecting the island’s natural bounty and rich cultural heritage.
• Tohoku: Northern Japan brings forth intricate lacquerware and metalwork, particularly from Aomori and Akita, where artisans work in isolated environments that encourage deep focus on craft.
Each region has its own distinct style, and walking through THE COVER NIPPON is like taking a journey across Japan without ever leaving Tokyo. The diversity of crafts—from wood and metal to ceramics and textiles—ensures that every visitor finds something that speaks to them.
Why You Should Visit THE COVER NIPPON
If you want to take home more than just a souvenir from Japan—something that holds a deeper cultural significance—THE COVER NIPPON is an essential stop. It offers more than just high-end products; it provides a connection to Japan’s artisanal heritage, allowing you to own a piece of the country’s story. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece or a subtle object that embodies the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship, THE COVER NIPPON has it all.
Perfect for collectors, lovers of design, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of handmade, authentic goods, this shop is a treasure trove of Japanese culture. And with the Midtown Galleria’s proximity to other Roppongi attractions, it’s an easy stop for anyone exploring Tokyo’s modern and traditional offerings. Make sure to take your time browsing—you’re not just shopping, you’re immersing yourself in centuries of tradition.
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