Atsushi Kawanishi, devoted to authentic bag craftsmanship
Kawanishi Kaban (Kawanishi Kaban Product Co., Ltd. / Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture) will operate a pop-up store at Hankyu Umeda Main Store from Wednesday, July 15, 2026, to Tuesday, July 21, 2026. On Monday, July 20 (a national holiday), the brand will host a special event titled "An Adult Leathercraft Experience & Talk Event: Touching the Heart and Craftsmanship of an Artisan," featuring a talk by representative Atsushi Kawanishi and a hands-on workshop where participants can experience a step in leather goods production. This is a rare opportunity to see, hear, and experience the background of craftsmanship and artisan techniques firsthand. Limited to 20 participants and requires prior reservation. See event details below.
◆ Topic Highlights
- Pop-up store opening at Hankyu Umeda Main Store - Workshop to be held on July 20 (Monday, holiday) - Talk event by Atsushi Kawanishi to be held concurrently - Limited pre-sale of new bag models starting July 15 - Exclusive venue-only novelty gifts for purchasers - Experience bag-making supported by 140,000 YouTube subscribers
◆ Bringing Japanese Craftsmanship Closer
At the main workshop
Kawanishi Kaban continues crafting bags at its workshop in Takamatsu, Kagawa, guided by the philosophy of "creating things that are loved."
Representative Atsushi Kawanishi began sharing content on YouTube with the belief that it's not enough to simply make good products—he also wants to convey the passion and joy behind craftsmanship. His sincere approach and down-to-earth personality resonated with viewers, growing the channel to over 140,000 subscribers.
This pop-up at Hankyu Umeda Main Store aims not only to sell bags but also to let visitors experience firsthand the value of Japanese artisan techniques and craftsmanship.
◆ Adult Bag-Making Workshop
Original key clip
On July 20 (Monday, holiday) during the pop-up period, a special workshop led by brand representative Atsushi Kawanishi will be held.
In addition to a talk on the philosophy behind bag-making and the behind-the-scenes of product development, participants will experience "edge painting," one of the key processes in leather goods production, using an original key clip kit.
This hands-on experience allows participants to understand the meticulous steps involved in finishing leather goods—something usually only seen as a final product. It’s a valuable opportunity to appreciate the depth of Japanese craftsmanship and the joy of making. Participants can take home their finished key clips as souvenirs.
◆ Pre-Sale Item
Available in four colors: Red, Olive, Greige, and Kinari
Atelier Boston macaroni [Macaroni]
The pop-up store will feature the pre-sale of a new mini Boston bag with storage capacity exceeding its compact appearance. Inspired by the classic drum Boston bag—popular for travel—this version has been downsized for everyday use.
It comfortably holds daily essentials such as a 500ml water bottle, long wallet, smartphone, pouch, and hand towel. A wide back pocket allows easy access to frequently used items like smartphones and small accessories.
◆ Exclusive Original Sticker Gift at Venue
Venue-exclusive original design
To commemorate the pop-up at Hankyu Umeda Main Store, customers who make a purchase will receive an original sticker.
This special design, available only for this event, features Osaka Umeda’s iconic red Ferris wheel.
Kawanishi Kaban primarily sells online, with physical stores only in Takamatsu (main store) and Tokyo’s Kagurazaka. This pop-up offers a rare opportunity to experience the products in person in the Osaka Umeda area. We welcome as many visitors as possible.
◆ Pop-Up Store Overview
Location: 8th Floor, GREEN AGE Promotion Space 81, Hankyu Umeda Main Store
Period: Wednesday, July 15, 2026 – Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Hours: 10:00 – 20:00
Address: 8-7 Kado-machi, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture 530-8350
Products Sold: Focus on classic canvas items. Pre-sale of Atelier Boston macaroni [Macaroni] Benefits: Exclusive limited-edition sticker for event attendees who make a purchase
※ Products other than pre-sale items may change without notice.
※ Quantities of pre-sale items and stickers are limited.
Popular canvas bag abb [Abebe]
◆ Talk Event & Workshop Overview
An Adult Leathercraft Experience & Talk Event: Touching the Heart and Craftsmanship of an Artisan
Location: 8th Floor, GREEN AGE Community Park, Hankyu Umeda Main Store
Date: Monday, July 20, 2026 (National Holiday) Time: 11:00 – 12:00
Content: Talk by representative Atsushi Kawanishi (15 min), edge painting workshop (30 min), and more
Capacity: 20 participants (※ Fully booked)
Admission Fee: ¥1,500 (tax included)
Event Details Page: https://reserve.hankyu-hanshin-dept.co.jp/events/detail/pd-1781490764859
※ Please note the pop-up store and event venue are located in different areas.
※ Although the event page mentioned “prior reservation,” we have received overwhelming interest and are now fully booked. We appreciate your understanding.
【Representative Profile】
Atsushi Kawanishi, President of Kawanishi Kaban Product Co., Ltd.
Atsushi Kawanishi
President of Kawanishi Kaban Product Co., Ltd. Started a bag manufacturing business in Takamatsu, Kagawa. Feeling the limitations of long-term subcontracting, he launched his own brand, Kawanishi Kaban. Facing a business crisis, he launched the YouTube channel "Kawanishi Kaban no Kyujitsu (Kawanishi Kaban’s Holidays)" as a turnaround strategy. Sharing behind-the-scenes of bag-making and the daily life of an artisan, the channel surpassed 140,000 subscribers. He established a direct-to-consumer model centered on online sales, building a nationwide customer base from a local, artisan-driven brand. Author of "How a Small Bag Maker Built Their Own Brand" (Byakuya Shobo).
【Company Overview】
Company Name: Kawanishi Kaban Product Co., Ltd.
Headquarters: 384-15 Ota-kamimachi, Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture
Phone: 087-880-8079
Stores: Takamatsu Main Store, Tokyo Kagurazaka Store
Official Online Shop: https://shop.kawanishikaban.com/
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Event