Why this Kyoto bag-maker refused to sell his products online | Remarkable Living

Fourth-generation Kyoto bag-maker Shinzaburo Ichizawa prefers to handle customer enquiries in person, and is generally inclined to doing things the old-fashioned way. But that’s what endears him to his customers, which include the likes of Sofia Coppola.
Find out more in this video, filmed before the pandemic.
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[@axsdnyd2989]

The fact that they want you to touch, feel, smell and experience the beauty of their creation in order to potentially place an order is one of the things I like best about them. I love traditional marketing because you can get a real sense of quality as you feel, touch, and smell the item. And specialty stores like this are much appreciated.

[@quikxfl]

Yeah, they are online now.

[@silluete]

@@quikxfl yeah covid happen. thats why.

[@alangc76]

@@quikxfl lol

[@rhaenentargaryen9996]

@@quikxfl stop spitting your lie

[@Z0Il]

@@rhaenentargaryen9996 so it's not true?

[@catcatcat14]

As a canvas bag maker i can say those are legit high quality canvas, and i still cant find such canvas in my country...

[@lidette711]

The bags look sturdy and beautiful! I want one!

[@roadrunner123]

I sew and I love the craftsmanship of these bags. The canvas, the buttons, the beautiful stitches, and the machines. Amazing precision!

[@rita5531]

These crafts beyond words... Japanese craftsmanship never fails to wow me I noticed women in Japan dont like carrying a fancy designer bag,instead they carry a functional all around tote on an everyday ... So cool...pls continue this....

[@goliaboi]

Japanese love fancy designer bags lol.

[@sltga1254]

RITA, I don't know which parts of Japan you visited but when I was in Tokyo, every second lady had an LV bag.

[@rita5531]

@@sltga1254 I dont look at women inTokyo,given that their from Tokyo of course they carry a designers. But I visited areas central Japan where Japanese women as Moms tending their kids,carrying simple canvas totes. I mustave confused you when I said...women in Japan,should have been,stay home japanese mom who bring their kids to ....blah blah blah

[@bayviewhomecarework8029]

Japanese have online pre live designer bag.

[@anncarroll7354]

Imagine if all makers held their stuff in such high regard to not just be sellouts. I’d love to own one of these bags one day!

[@ummulchair6801]

Living and working with dignity. I'm so inspired with Japanese people's work ethic

[@Ikaros23]

Look up karoshi, it`s not all what it seems on the hip surface.

[@忠英-x7y]

@@Ikaros23 only for salaryman

[@azabujuban-hito8085]

I bought the bag 2 years ago. I went to Kyoto just to bought it as I cannot find it here in Tokyo ! I got the large tote bag and the boston bag and they're very durable . I constantly overload them with heavy stuff( groceries,paperworks,laundry etc ) and yet still hold up beautifully. And so easy to clean too. Im glad that now they have a website ( www.ichizawa.co.jp ). I guess covid changed their decision as not many people are able to come here now. They even have an instagram account !

[@lucky889s9]

So much for "Made in Kyoto, sold in Kyoto" this while thing Seema like a marketing ad to me... Bragging no online store but boom, now online store and Instagram. Do they take orders via tweeter and Facebook too?

[@azabujuban-hito8085]

@@lucky889s9 you can contact them thro the website instead of asking me.

[@heleneikerenkotter2950]

What is the cost range of these awesome bags ?

[@cancel.lgbtq.6892]

I rather support bags maker like this rather than overpriced luxury brands like Gucci , LV , etc.

[@noirto2]

Having no investor and their meddling does help preserve quality of products.

[@Rod-bp8ow]

It is what makes Kyoto Standards infinite and pristine, preserved methods of production, tradition and ways of living, every manner of make it known that makes it a remarkable outstanding excellence are always evident in places culturally as well. No room for abandonment of workers and factories, these days. Continue always to do the ethical standards in businesses elders. HRH 4824

[@DanielK1213th]

It would have been more profitable to export products though. It can be a limited amount but still pristine like Rolex and other luxury brands. I would think that the workers would want to get paid more as they develop their skills over the years.

[@Rod-bp8ow]

@@DanielK1213th it is profitable Mr.random not just on the monetary aspects, but also on the skills as well as the abilities that companies and branded ones create and make, give patents and license to practice and operate the way they do in most countries, where there is no discrimination, regardless of age, ethinicity, and background, all of them that would like to learn shall always learn the good sides of measurements, standards of quality, quantity and so as the things that is deemed proper, appropriate, just to them that knows perfection standards the way companies and corporations operate domestically International. The way SMES GPS are in many industries and fields.

[@alvinleong173]

The artisan spirit is stronger than technology!

[@Beebsentrance]

Beautiful story about happiness and success. There is so much things I learnt from this video. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@winnibee09]

Artisan making is still the best! ❤️ will surely love to have one of their products one day

[@TopGarageTV]

What a great training/growth model. A craftsman works along side a apprentice. Both benefit greatly being paired together.

[@koichiando3500]

Beautiful story for our crazy rush rush times. Delightful video. Nicely done.

[@aloksamel]

Reminds me of the Duckback Canvas Bags sold here in India in the 80's and early '90s. Wonderful bags by Ichizawa san.

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

It is admirable to have such dedication to craft.

[@daniyal7133]

The works of these people are really remarkable. Japanese are really one of the best craftsmen on this planet.

[@jam1966ful]

The pride that so obviously runs throughout the company is a joy.

[@shaunhall1838]

As a silversmith I appreciate the love of craftsmanship. Nothing comes close to something that is made by hand and lasts a lifetime.

[@aeropuranu]

使われている道具ひとつとっても、製造業大国と言われていた戦前のアメリカの工場では、当たり前のように使われていたシンガーのミシン。 戦後間もなくない日本ではプロの間でもなかなか手に入らない高級品だった。 そのミシンを作るものに最適な道具として修理し調整しながらいまなお使われていることに嬉しささえ感じる。 先端技術を取り入れたり生産効率より「物作り」には大切なものがあるということを知っている日本の老舗企業や職人の存在と意識が日本の製造業を支えている。 これこそが日本の製造業の真髄であり最も大切に受け継がれている精神だと思う。

[@ピエロ軍曹-d7o]

カッパえんちーからきました。この古いミシンも大事に使い手入れし長持ちさせる。そういう意味でも伝わる何かがありますよね。

[@maggiejetson7904]

My grandma had that kind of sewing machine. The foot driven movement lets you control the speed better than electric sewing machine. I can see why they still uses it for the craftsmanship they want.

[@sachinrv1]

Japanese excel in anything they take up. When they don't find answers to their question in science, they find it in their deep rooted years old culture. Truly professional craftsmen. I admire them a lot.

[@mommymarine1756]

I’ll be in Kyoto in 2 weeks. I can’t wait to stop by to buy one the way the owner actually intended. I wish the video talked about the price range though.

[@smartassist9700]

I am most humbled by this bag maker sticking to traditional ways. The element of manual attention to detail at master level cannot be matched by any automation action... I would be blessed to shop in his shop personally, but may never see the chance as I cannot afford to travel there. When I did travel, I slaughter craftsmen hand making items. I was blown away by Filipino Master Craftsmen. Perhaps one day I can travel again.

[@UriValdez]

Lovely, I enjoy being a craftsman. The joy of making something beautiful and unique with your hands, its indescribable

[@TheDepressionTalks]

I’ve had one for years and it only gets better with age and comments whenever I’m out with it. Expensive and worth every penny.

[@quique7764]

I love the ideas of his workers coming together to integrate new designs & ideas but I do believe they would benefit immensely if they hired someone who has had the same amout of years of designing bags as they do crafting them. Either way I love this.

[@mihiec]

I'm shocked how cheap they are compering to quality of those bags and also how the owner treat his personell. !!!! Amazing

[@kingk2405]

Very minimalistic approach concentrated on the essential : Quality . Knowing that when you make quality products they will be in demand .

[@ピエロ軍曹-d7o]

素晴らしい日本の誇り。心がこもり心が伝わる和。これぞ日本。大切にお続けください。応援します。何でも新しい技術新しい技術ではなく伝統的な技術こそが真心伝わる事もあります。

[@kittymervine6115]

Yes spend money on a bag that will last and last and always be in fashion. while well made bags that are designer are appreciated, they are fast fashion in that people want the latest style, or not be dated with an older bag. Find one you will care for and yes this is helping save a family business and the planet.

[@mvzv3913]

Then Make a bag that is timeless

[@acmehorse]

I may have to go to Japan..

[@ericwoodlee9745]

Japan is an amazing country unlike any other country in the world. Everything revolves around respect. Koi fish are able to thrive in drainage canals along side of roads because it’s simply that clean because people don’t litter. Children take public transit and walk to school alone even at age 6 and 7 because it’s that safe. The homeless, what few there are, do not beg for money because it’s considered rude. You should definitely visit Japan for so many different reasons including buying a bag. 👍🇯🇵😄

[@kasikwagoma6740]

@@ericwoodlee9745 I agree with you 100%.japan is on a different planet. I am an avid japanophile.

[@ericwoodlee9745]

@@kasikwagoma6740 I wish Americans could learn to respect nature and one another the way Japanese people do. After the tsunami, people collected millions of dollars that were in safes and metal boxes and instead of keeping it for themselves they turned it in so the rightful owners could collect it. Although there are definitely some Americans that would do that, many others would not.

[@vals.2721]

I bought one today. They opened an online shop due to COVID. Can’t wait to receive it! I do hope to visit Kyoto and bug one in person.

[@TerryThePondererLewis]

👍Well done! Humble Sheikh Shinzaburo ibn Ichizawa.

[@elcidsecundo3097]

We need a to have an Apprenticeship Program for High School students who do not want a college degree but a skill trade. This country has shamed parents into the thinking that if a child does not have a college degree, then their child is a failure. It would be the case if the child does not have a foundation to begin with. I remember when I was a senior that the faculty would tell us not sign up for basket weaving 101. a skilled mason would make good money like someone with an MBA. A skilled mason would build the very house with the person who has the MBA. You can't say the same if it was the opposite. Food for though.

[@alexeygraive1674]

they opened an online store tho. because of covid.

[@TheNunakun]

TLDR: Essentially supply cannot keep up with demand. They are fine without going online.

[@ellellim]

*were. they were fine. now, with no demands knocking on their door, they had to change a bit.

[@jofx4051]

Oof they go online now, at least it can expand their market

[@SwiftieBlink03]

I appreciate such mentality.... Not everything now about money.

[@lalakuma9]

If only fashion and bag production still works like this...

[@chloeguo]

I went to this store in Kyoto several years ago. Lots of variety, color to choose from, definitely not cheap, but affordable. I didn’t know it was handmade, I just like the shape of the bag.

[@kamilialatifah]

Do you still remember the average price of the bags? Thinking of buying one for my high schooler relative if I have a chance to visit Kyoto

[@chloeguo]

@@kamilialatifah I don’t remember exactly the price. I got one less than 100 US dollars

[@asiafung550]

Thank you for making this video.

[@vijf67acht]

How different would things be if every large town had a store like this...

[@obamabinbiden8497]

How many people could afford them? These are niche products for niche markets.

[@yongxia]

I have a pencil case from this studio. Iove it and just holding it, you can see and feel and craftsmanship

[@mohammedberrezzel5171]

I really like Japanese artisana but you need to try Moroccan bags as well

[@dsan5825]

I always wanted to go to Kyoto but now I really want to go to this establishment!

[@maiher8635]

Now I need to travel to japan and get the bag.

[@rachcliffe3182]

Like the young samurai, slicing the canvas!

[@caroldeocampo2443]

I wish can purchase their products in Kyoto. 😷

[@anitagripon933]

The bags are so beautiful..

[@alyaniali6829]

That's explain why all high quality Japanese brand are expensive

[@guybeauregard]

You can use it for a long time. If you think about that, the cost makes more sense. Cheers, Guy

[@boogiedownbronx73]

don't blame him I think its wonderful that can continue to sell the way his family has been doing for generation...no need to go online...people just need to visit his store and travel to Japan makes it every penny worth it...

[@SuccessforLifester]

Last time electronic products we like Made in Japan labels.. too bad that is almost non existent now. My last MD player is a Japanese made Sony brand. Too bad they kill off this MD player and remove it's support at service center

[@wyattearp88]

These kind of handmade canvas bag , Taiwan have a lot , especially in Kaohsiung and Tainan , some even can put your name on it.

[@lucky889s9]

Does the material, quality, and craftmanship match this? Many factories here in Indonesia with cheaper canbas bag cause cheaper Labor like in southeast Asia, but the material and quality Will not last long...

[@MH-pz8wf]

Only in Japan and Italy, details and quality, these kinds of hand-craft product can still survive and even thrive in this global mass-manufacturing economy!

[@susannarducci3350]

On my bucket list.

[@catherineleslie-faye4302]

I have bookmarked the website and am saving up for a pair of boston bags.

[@leeszeyong]

searched online; they just announced an online store on 7 Feb 2021

[@knmonlinemedia]

Yaaay now I can buy one!

[@cookiemonster-20]

Thank you. I just ordered 2 bags.

[@arrowb3408]

Man... I had been active in Kansai area for 2 yrs 2 decades ago, but never know this shop till now from YT. And I know the shop is located around Kyomizu Temple. Well, I have 2 canvas bags and very eye catching. And I saw this shop canvas got better quality than my Taiwan elementary school bag and the other US Navy bag. HAHAHA Good to not on- line selling to boost more tourists to go to Kyoto. From the displayed products, there isn't any red and yellow color canvas. Jodo zanen desk yo. Also give a suggestion to your design--- Have a broader shoulder stripe is better to shoulders in ergonomic design. Will go there one day if I visit Kyoto again. This is the shop and the others.

[@Bobomeetworld]

Someday..when the covid19 is gone...i will come to this store and buy some bags 🥰🥰

[@penelopepitstop13]

@ CNA, Hi. I would Love to own a toolbag or two from this shop BUT the style of toolbag/backpack that the carpenters and plumbers had, they look so sturdy and stylish all at the same time and they also have the toolbag/backpack in several colors you can't beat that... Also talking about stylish I just LOVE that gray jacket that the Boss has on it looks Extremely Soft and you can tell that jacket is made of Prime fabric, I love how the owner looks like he's laid-back BUT that Luxurious gray jacket Screams CEO. Love it. Thank You. 🐶 PEACE! 🚭

[@maretesborneso6510]

The quality is good I have been there before in kyoto

[@tinklvsme]

Not fair, I’m in California-and I can’t fly there just to purchase 2 bags. I’m totally hands on, but... 3-21 ❤️✌️🙏🎁👜

[@crownedcurrent]

I hope to find this place when I get to Asia and travel abroad

[@JV-bc8um]

I really do hate online shopping, I like to see things in person not to mention the wait time for delivery which I don't want to pay extra for fast shipping.

[@bespokeoriginaldesign761]

Agreed. as a Master stitcher and bespoke upholsterer. I rarely give due dates. each item is custom made. We are last of a dying breed.

[@quikxfl]

How much are the bags in the store? Online the small bags start around $150 USD

[@actualangel5133]

My mother had that type of Singer sewing 🧵 🪡 machine....

[@alderakirisaki4351]

"Made in Kyoto, sold in Kyoto." I wanna come there some day :)

[@ДарьяГригорьева-ц3м]

Мне очень понравились, все так качественно. Как можно заказать сумку?😊

[@kaychua1262]

I bought kyoto bag in Hong Kong at aeon department store.

[@aliahh2418]

They want us to come there and buy more bags. Trust me when you go there you will “rambang mata”

[@iseejewelz3874]

Very impressive, not the prettiest bags if I must say but at least you have quality that speaks volumes

[@mrnoname315]

They now have a temporary online shop since not a lot of people can come to japan due to COVID.

[@tepi33]

Can you share the link ?

[@alleaufihreposition]

Well, I think I have to travel to Japan...

[@deannajohnson3933]

That's amazing.

[@barcasoccer1]

Anyone know what kind of jacket he's wearing? The gray one in the shop

[@jhkl8467]

Band collared jacket with drop shoulder, box back w/ center seam, and patch pockets. You can also check out “sack coat” or “chore coat” variations.

[@barcasoccer1]

@@jhkl8467 thank you very much. Very helpful

[@gederoniyansen4043]

People...are...racing...in to the same direction...from time to time...some people are..also..doing the race...but.....calmly...not rushing...not...forcing....just maintain the sovereignity...and focus to make a good product...instead of...amount of product...yess...every body need money.....every body love expansion and become popular...but ...they need....a different...way...to keep life and move....wisely !!

[@MsHantubelau]

Keren dokumentarynya

[@Layput]

I wish they would make men purse (toiletry bag). It's the only acceptable handbag for men.

[@Ikamcmorris]

Beautiful, outstanding.

[@alpineflauge909]

thank you

[@featherpuke]

oh to be trained to be a craftsman

[@allengina1091]

Japan in Asia is always the best product.

[@punkyoliverio]

Amazing 👏🙌❤️

[@tristanlee6538]

To think I went to koto twice and I bought porter bag instead

[@Kv-pk2st]

A shop full of craftsmen.

[@Users_rx]

I love the fact that they DONT CARE. Lol because i am like this and people keep telling me why im so anal about stuff and inflexible

[@design_with_xoliswa]

I love what I am seeing

[@supermodelatlanta1354]

Laptop bag on ebay was 440. Worth every penny

[@crissln8654]

The story is like Hermes product are lovingly handmade

[@MiyannVlog]

That is why i can't buy any japanese bags at shopee, but please sell so we can have bags made in Japan

[@lendaryreviews]

Wow.

[@leoncioco3305]

If d system is not broken; why fix it. 👍👍👍👏👏

[@igorchak48]

and the fact that they are selling online now just after this video with 170k views came out is so not a marketing move.....

[@jofx4051]

Wait this video has 1.3M views?

[@MiyannVlog]

I like this japanese principle

[@hcldeepdive6339]

I would love to purchase $100,000 worth of bags monthly and resell them in the States.

[@omaraziz9511]

Hi very nice bag the you have website

[@madriditunes7021]

Nowdays they sell online with very cheap price.

[@gmr2gnr]

Weird I’m being shown an Ad for Hermès bag