What we do

JAPANIQUE is a sales collective for a range of high quality, handcrafted fashion accessories and home décor items, all made using traditional Japanese Kogei techniques. All our products are unique, made by skilled Kogei artisans. Kogei refers to techniques and products which blend artistic beauty and functionality in the creation of everyday items, using natural materials.
 
There are many types of Kogei artisans in Japan, but the artisans we represent are distinguished by their creativity. In fact, many of their artworks have been displayed in Japanese art galleries. In this respect, we can say these artisans are truly artists in their own right.
 
We provide information on the artisans on each item page of our website, as if their products were museum exhibits. We feature their story, the concept behind each product, and the process of making it, on the Collection page.

Note: Our products are mostly handmade with natural materials, so they may differ in terms of shapes or coloring. Any differences are part of their charm and a sign of their uniqueness. Your understanding is appreciated.

Made-to-Order Production

We adopt a “made-to-order” approach in order to maintain our high standards of quality. While this approach may not be part of your normal business practice, your understanding is appreciated.

Delivery Time Frame

Delivery time depends on the art or craft work ordered, its design and the number of items you order. Most goods are delivered in approximately 3-6 months.

Limited Quantities

Most of our products for overseas sale are available in limited quantities only. You can tell your customers that each product is a work of art!

No Minimum Order Size

If you wish, you can order just one item on its own.

Custom-made Orders

We are happy to take individual requests. You can request a partial change of a design, motif or accessory parts, based on our sample collection. Use the Quote Cart Form (message space) to let us know your preferences or to point out what you would like to change. For more information, please see the Custom-Made Orders section.


We do not show pricing information on our website.

Prices are strictly not disclosed on our website for our retailers’ benefit. Also, note that the final price paid will vary depending on shipping costs for each destination country, import taxes and tariffs. Once we receive a quote request from a prospective customer, we will first disclose our retail prices for sales overseas. We will subsequently disclose wholesale prices once we reach an agreement with the retailer. You can see our Terms and Conditions on this website.


Creator lookup

By reading the QR Code or URL on the item tag, users can see who made the product.

All of our products are shipped with an item tag or card printed with a QR code and URL. Using your smartphone or tablet, you can easily check artisan information by scanning the QR code, or entering the URL into your browser. The website outlines their story – their career as an artisan, the concept behind the products, and the techniques used in making them.

Note: If you have a smartphone or tablet, you can download the QR code reader/scanner for free from Android Apps (Google Play) or the App store for iPhone/iPad.

Two key benefits!

Firstly, your customers can easily access detailed information about the artisan as they shop, or else when they return home. Secondly, your shop staff can provide customers with additional information via their tablet. We believe that knowing something about the artisan, and the story behind the art work, brings the product to life and creates a bond with the customer.


Custom made order

Feel free to make any request you like, however small. We will do our best to respond.

We would love to hear any individual requests you may have. You can request a partial change of the design, motif or accessory parts, based on our sample collection. Please let us know your preferences or just point out what you would like to change via the Quote Cart Form (use the message space).

We welcome orders which are customized “from start to finish”. We would be delighted to help you create your own perfect piece.

If you already have something special in mind, or need an artisan’s inspiration for something more spectacular, we are more than willing to help. Please tell us what you would like to make, which items, or which artisan’s style you like, through Quote Cart Form. Or contact us directly. We will make every effort to respond to your requests in a thorough and timely manner.
 
Our philosophy is that new ideas help our designs hit new heights. Our hope is that the chemistry between your idea and our Japanese Kogei art techniques produces something unique and innovative. We promise to implement your idea as faithfully as we can, with helpful suggestions from our skilled artisans.


Cost of a Custom-made Order

The cost depends on the design, art materials used and complexity of your request, as well as the order size. For slight changes only, we will keep any additional costs to a minimum, as our products are made-to-order anyway. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Accessory Parts

Have you ever wished you could change a necklace cord? Needless to say, these kinds of details are crucial for your final purchase decision. So we offer a variety of accessory parts, or you can adjust the length of necklace cords and bracelet strings.
 
Fashion styles in other countries may differ from those in Japan, although we try to select the accessories which we believe suit each item best. If you would like to change an accessory, let us know via the Quote Cart Form, or contact us directly to discuss your requirements.

Design Patents (For shop retailers only)

We are interested in collaborating with designers overseas, and understand the importance of patents in business. Please contact us to discuss how we may partner with you.