5 reasons to visit Asakusa's newest budo sports pro shop
Martial arts equipment manufacturer Mitsuboshi Co, Ltd (est 1953) has recently opened its flagship store Mitsuboshi Global, a budo sports pro shop in Asakusa not far from Sensoji Temple. The venue is your one-stop shop for all things Japanese martial arts from uniforms and gear to apparel and accessories, specialising mainly in judo, aikido and karate.Here are a few reasons to visit the store, even if you don't consider yourself a martial arts enthusiast. (Hint: there's Hello Kitty merch.)
Photo: Keisuke TanigawaRacks of gi
1. Get your gi
Mitsuboshi Global sells kid-sized and adult gi for karate, judo and aikido. The store offers ready-to-wear uniforms you can get off the rack, but it also does custom fittings – just get measured at the store or send your measurements in and let the store handle the rest. Pre-made gi cost between ¥10,000 and ¥30,000 depending on the size and fabric, while custom-made gi will set you back around ¥50,000. Your order will be ready for pick-up or delivery after about a month (international shipping available).
Photo: Keisuke TanigawaBudo gear
2. Grab some budo gear
If you've already got your gi covered, you can pick up other budo gear like shin guards (from ¥3,850) and sparring gloves (¥4,290). Don't see what you're looking for? Check the in-store brochure, which has much more budo equipment – including kendo swords and armour – available for pick-up or delivery.
Photo: Mitsuboshi GlobalMitsuboshi Global karate class
3. Learn karate basics