A Creative Space Connecting People Through Art and Craft

Amagasaka is a modest residential area located east of Nagoya's city center. It retains a downtown atmosphere with narrow alleys and occasional stone buildings that survived wartime destruction. In this neighborhood, the shop & gallery AMAGASAKA, which opened in January 2007 and bears the area's name, occupies a four-story building renovated by the owner himself.

Inside, the air is filled with the sounds of gypsy music, born organically from this place. It features a bookshelf for families, not just for children. The versatile kitchen and cafe space also hosts macrobiotic cooking events. Transcending the conventional concept of a shop, it has become a salon-like gathering place for various individuals, from chefs to DJs.

The frequently held events are full of playful enjoyment: dining events utilizing the spacious kitchen, or Nordic walking excursions designed to foster an appreciation for local charms. The second floor serves as a gallery space, its distinct white ambiance setting it apart from the first floor and reflecting the broad scope of Amagasaka's offerings.

Seymour Kwast, an American illustrator known as a co-founder of Pushpin Studio alongside Milton Glaser and for his work on the visual magazine "NOSE" (launched in 1997), where each issue is built around a single concept, is one of the artists recommended by Amagasaka.



The daily necessities, bearing the marks of craftsmanship—such as letterpress postcards, beautifully printed books, and works from the glass studio Prepa, founded by a local Aichi native now based in Nagano—possess a quiet yet compelling presence that enriches everyday life, even without ostentatious flair.

Here, one can enjoy tea in the in-store living space, appreciating objects that stimulate the senses, planning future endeavors, and sharing emotions. The owner's vision, aiming to holistically engage with all aspects of design and art, remains steadfast.

The affection for one's hometown is a precious sentiment everyone holds. Therefore, new initiatives in design and art originating from this small town must first take root locally. Embracing the rich historical context of this area, the creations and concepts emanating from this region will undoubtedly become invaluable to us living in Tokyo as well.