A new shop for Japanese paper and patterned goods has opened in central Kyoto, close to Shijo-Kawaramachi and Nishiki Market. Shofudo (笑風堂), a brand that carries on the craftsmanship of Suzuki Shofudo, founded in 1893 (Meiji 26), opened its flagship store on Thursday, October 8, 2026, just south of Yanagibanba-Rokkaku in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto. The official opening followed a soft opening on October 6 and 7.
It is a convenient stop between sightseeing spots, and just as handy for locals looking for everyday small goods.
Over 130 years of paper processing, turned into everyday goods
Shofudo inherits the paper-processing techniques and the spirit of craftsmanship, centered on traditional Japanese patterns and colors, that Suzuki Shofudo has built up over many years. From October 2026, Shofu Co., Ltd. has taken over Suzuki Shofudo’s Japanese-goods business and runs it under a new structure. The brand says it aims to offer traditional washi paper and Japanese patterns as products that are easy to bring into modern life.
Square plates, goshuincho and Kyoto bookmarks — the colors and patterns of yuzen and katazome paper
On the shelves are popular square plates, goshuincho (books for collecting temple and shrine stamps), Kyoto bookmarks, washi stationery and magnets, among other items. The range runs from everyday goods to Kyoto souvenirs and gifts. The delicate patterns and colors of yuzen paper and katazome (stencil-dyed) paper are a big part of the appeal.
Photo: Shofu Co., Ltd.
The store also carries square plates from regions across Japan, as well as boxes and many other small items. The brand is developing products that visitors from overseas can choose as a keepsake that feels like Kyoto.
Photo: Shofu Co., Ltd.
Shop on the first floor, office on the second — a base for sending out news from Kyoto
The flagship has a shop on the first floor and an office on the second. By placing the place where customers see the products and the team that handles product planning and sales in the same building, the company hopes to feed customers’ voices and market trends back into its product making. News about Kyoto’s traditional culture, the appeal of washi, and new products and events will also be shared from here. There is a courtyard at the back of the passage.
Photo: Shofu Co., Ltd.
Its third store in Kyoto, with Nara and Osaka in view
Shofudo already has a store at Hotel Honnoji, opposite Kyoto City Hall, and another at “Miyakomichi” by the Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station, which opened on April 1, 2026. The new flagship is its third in the city. The brand plans to raise its profile in Kyoto first, and is also considering stores in sightseeing areas and commercial facilities across Japan, starting with Nara and Osaka.
Store information
- Store: Shofudo Flagship Store
- Opened: Thursday, October 8, 2026
- Address: 421 Izutsuya-cho, Yanagibanba-dori Rokkaku-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 10:00–18:00
- Layout: 1st floor shop / 2nd floor office
- Operator: Shofu Co., Ltd.
- Online shop (Japanese): https://shofudo-shop.jp/
