Ginza’s Onitsuka Tiger and Men’s Kimono — Finding “Japanese Aesthetics” in Modern Style

2025年11月14日

As I walk through the streets of Ginza,

I often notice the long line that forms in front of Onitsuka Tiger Ginza.

Many international visitors look excited as they choose their sneakers,

and their presence feels like part of the “new face” of Ginza today.

From time to time, I also see people carrying Onitsuka Tiger shopping bags stopping by my shop.

Perhaps it’s a natural flow — “Since I bought a Japanese brand item, maybe I should take a look at kimono as well.”

A Quiet Shared Aesthetic Between Japanese Brands and Kimono

Onitsuka Tiger is known worldwide as a Japanese brand.

Its designs carry a sense of calmness and understated beauty.

Simple, careful, refined — this quiet elegance also exists in the world of kimono.

In kimono, beauty is not about flashiness but about craftsmanship, subtlety, and balance.

Even in different genres, Japanese brands share this sense of refined simplicity.

What Visitors Seek in Ginza: “Japanese-ness”

Ginza is lined with global luxury brands,

but many international visitors come here looking for something uniquely Japanese.

I feel this strongly every day through my interactions with customers.

Onitsuka Tiger’s sneakers are one expression of Japanese beauty,

while kimono and traditional garments express it in another form.

Recently, I occasionally hear international visitors say:

“I want a men’s kimono or yukata.”

This was rare in the past.

Now I actually see people who pair sneakers with kimono.

That combination looks modern and refreshing, and I find it interesting.

Of course, it’s still a minority.

But as a way to enjoy kimono casually and more freely,

sneakers can be a fun option.

Some Ideas:

・A brightly colored haori × white sneakers

・Denim kimono × casual sneakers

・Black kimono × black sneakers

(Photo: denim kimono)

Kimono as casual wear —

these modern men’s kimono styles may continue to expand through the influence of sneakers.

Summary

Watching the line in front of Onitsuka Tiger,

I’m reminded of the depth and appeal that Japanese brands possess.

At the same time, I feel that this “Japanese-ness” sparks interest in the world of kimono as well.

Sneakers and kimono —

two very different items, yet each expressing Japanese aesthetics in its own way.

As I walked through Ginza, those were the thoughts that crossed my mind.