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?

[@cancel.lgbtq.6892]

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

[@alvinleong173]

The artisan spirit is stronger than technology!

[@anitac3086]

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

[@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.

[@user-rd1um7vb1y]

@@Ikaros23 only for salaryman

[@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.

[@lidette711]

The bags look sturdy and beautiful! I want one!

[@noirto2]

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

[@evghenianicolaou5327]

They want you to hold the bag, touch it and even smell it, before deciding to buy. This says a lot about the ethos of the man! Doesn't want to go online but just sell in his home town. Wish there were more of this type around!

[@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!

[@arving.4441]

I really admire Japan's passion for precision and craftsmanship.

[@roadrunner123]

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

[@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 ?

[@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.

[@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.

[@winnibee09]

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

[@Beebsentrance]

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

[@daniyal7133]

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

[@aloksamel]

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

[@TopGarageTV]

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

[@wozy75]

Wow that's impressive hope they can survive covid. Would be very happy to visit the actual store one day

[@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。

[@user-fw6ck2gi9m]

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.

[@koichiando3500]

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

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

It is admirable to have such dedication to craft.

[@angelaarena5208]

How refreshing to see a person taking pride in their work and protect and not over taken by greed, kudos 👏 to him if only there were more manufacturers like him we wouldn’t have all this cheap stuff that is disposable👎The name of the game these days is called GREED 💰💰💰

[@jam1966ful]

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

[@shazukasew]

I make bags... i can feel what shinzaburo feels. When he says, he wanted people to come & experience of touching and smelling the bags. Even the scent of fabrics from different countries, give various experience. So does bag handle...

[@UriValdez]

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

[@angiethompson5648]

I love this, the designers and creators are the same people.. There is pride in each of these bags, each person who touches this bag before it is purchased has put their all into its creation.

[@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.

[@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.

[@user-fw6ck2gi9m]

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。

[@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

[@mimimonster]

So beautiful that the owner values the craftsmanship, history and livelihoods of those involved in his company over “getting rich” by outsourcing and mass producing an inferior product.

[@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

[@balot001]

i have a kyoto bag for 30 yrs and still good. the quality is really superior

[@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.

[@asiafung550]

Thank you for making this video.

[@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.

[@justchilling9442]

Such a relaxing watch. Really enjoy this channel.

[@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 .

[@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.

[@anitagripon933]

The bags are so beautiful..

[@smartassist9700]

CNA - I HAVE TRAVELED to Asia in the past. I learn culture by spending time with the people in their full life settings including their homes / family, work, and more. I believe A OUTSIDE LOOK INTO CULTURE CAN BERING OUT MORE THAN ONE FROM THE SAME CULTURE. YOU LEARN THROUGH NEW EYES THAT ARE MOST EAGER TO KNOW AND UNDERSTAND. I WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK WITH YOU FURTHER AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE. MOST HUMBLE APPRECIATION. ALTON

[@cromagxx]

..I saw his bags being sold at eBay just now, they look very fine quality...

[@1228carlito]

I recognize all but one of the sewing machines shown, that being their oldest one. I didn't see any discernable markings. Juki is a world renowned brand and I also see that all the machines are at least 20 years old. I hope they have a direct line to Juki for spare parts as some of the older machines are harder to get correct parts for. Even with them having an online store now, I would still visit them to see the products first hand.

[@randygeyer4730]

A true philosophy! Beautiful and honorable. ありがとう!

[@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

[@IanPaulSaligumba]

I ordered one of their bags last Feb. 22, 2021 and it arrived yesterday, April 8, 2021. It looks very sturdy and I love it so much 😍

[@SwiftieBlink03]

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

[@lalakuma9]

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

[@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

[@azuaris]

I would love to own one or two of those bags.. Was planning to go Japan last year huhu

[@yomommastupid]

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...

[@alexeygraive1674]

they opened an online store tho. because of covid.

[@zmelli]

Simply Amazing!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@MsHantubelau]

Keren dokumentarynya

[@blorac9869]

You can hold water in these bags, they are weaved that well!

[@carringtonlefayette8644]

Beyond fabulous.

[@dsan5825]

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

[@bucketofbarnacles]

They have ended up selling online, presumably due to the pandemic.

[@quikxfl]

As clearly stated in their website

[@nezn8]

i thought so. it was inevitable.

[@Kenri_Basar]

@@quikxfl Kindly share the link to their website. Much appreciated.

[@MiyannVlog]

@@LynnNicoleGat10T oh i see

[@MiyannVlog]

@@LynnNicoleGat10T its few weeks ago

[@susannarducci3350]

On my bucket list.

[@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

[@maiher8635]

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

[@TerryThePondererLewis]

👍Well done! Humble Sheikh Shinzaburo ibn Ichizawa.

[@thepochade5992]

Another reason to get to Kyoto one day 💕👏

[@caroldeocampo2443]

I wish can purchase their products in Kyoto. 😷

[@rachcliffe3182]

Like the young samurai, slicing the canvas!

[@Ikamcmorris]

Beautiful, outstanding.

[@catherineleslie-faye4302]

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

[@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!

[@alpineflauge909]

thank you

[@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! 🚭

[@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

[@fncctaobaocom]

thank you for share

[@NasreenUS]

Beautiful 💕

[@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...

[@FRANKSLANDBALI1]

bless you

[@design_with_xoliswa]

The girl is smiling only for hammering buttons. She must really love putting those studs and buttons.

[@leeszeyong]

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

[@knmonlinemedia]

Yaaay now I can buy one!

[@uyen-phuongnguyen8757]

Thank you. I just ordered 2 bags.

[@crownedcurrent]

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

[@punkyoliverio]

Amazing 👏🙌❤️

[@impala5108]

I would love to apprentice in such a shop.

[@maretesborneso6510]

The quality is good I have been there before in kyoto

[@DizzzyKipper]

Very cool . Very smart.

[@deannajohnson3933]

That's amazing.

[@Bobomeetworld]

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

[@Tipper1941]

Sign of the times, due to pandemic, they are selling online. I just placed my order. ❤️👍🏻

[@rita5531]

How?thanks

[@Tipper1941]

Googled, website is in English. US dollars. Wanted more, shipping cheap but customs charges kick in for Canada, over $200 so I was a good girl.

[@cherry6343]

Wow i love it , super good Q. 💚

[@savinggift158]

Even smelling it... Yes I miss buying items in shops

[@pecahperiuk]

Good news.. he has started an online store

[@kcx2678]

Because of Covid, they have to adapt. It’s human nature to adapt and it really doesn’t compromise the quality of their products. 😉

[@quikxfl]

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

[@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.

[@eujinchan]

The was uploaded on 16th Feb 2021 saying there's no online store. But they actually do have an online store. lol

[@jofx4051]

Stocked video, obviously they change their mind after some time