Inspirations

Kojima Shōten: Classic Japanese Lanterns Reimagined

Shun Kojima is a 10th generation lantern maker, presiding over lantern manufacturer Kojima Shōten in Kyoto City, which has been around since the Edo period. “From an early age, I played with the surplus bamboo from the workshop and spent time surrounded by lanterns,” he says. “And ever since I graduated from high school, I have been working with my family every day.

“Not long ago, I decided to create another workshop and work on training craftsmen. The new Kojima Shōten is located in a two-story, wooden folk house in Amino-cho, Kyotango City, in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture facing the Sea of ​​Japan.” In 2021, Kojima moved to the town with his wife and children to supervise the operation.

Here’s a look:

Above: A lantern installation in the lounge are of Akariya Geihanro, a traditional inn overlooking Inuyama Castle.
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Above: A detail shot of one of the lanterns at Akariva Geihanro.
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Above: The Yubari Lantern.
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Above: Kyoto Shinpuhkan Lantern. Photo by Mitsuru Wakabayashi.
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Above: A Foil Lantern jointly developed with Mr. Tachikawa of Nosigner as part of  the Rinpa 400th anniversary commemorative project.

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Above: The collection also includes free-standing lights that, with glass inserts, can also be used as vases.

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Above: An oversized table lamp/vase.

See more Japanese design:

The Ace Hotel Kyoto: Japanese Design Meets Bohemian Style

Steal This Look: A Moody Mid-Century-Japanese Mashup

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