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.)
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).
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.
3. Learn karate basics
If you're curious to try karate, the store offers a one-time class on the basics. During the one-hour experience, your English-speaking instructor will walk you through simple punches and other karate fundamentals. The class hosts a maximum of only eight people, meaning plenty of personal attention, and includes complimentary photos and a (decorative) karate belt to take home. You can book your spot for ¥10,000 here.
4. Purchase Hello Kitty merch
Karate meets kawaii with this fun collab. At this store only, you can purchase official budo-themed Hello Kitty merch featuring everyone's favourite cat-faced girl – along with a few other Sanrio characters – donning martial arts attire. (Who knew Kitty was a red belt?) You can get keychains (¥660), plushies (¥2,750), T-shirts (from ¥4,400) and more.
5. Buy a katana (seriously)
If katanas are your thing, look no further. Mitsuboshi Global sells replicas and the real deal, but they don't come cheap. Prices range from ¥122,000 all the way up to over ¥3.4 million, depending on the model. Just make sure not to walk around with your purchase.
Mitsuboshi Global (03 6278 8591) is open daily from 10am to 7pm.
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