Paragons of the minimal home where absolutely nothing is extraneous, the Japanese have a knack for marrying beauty, function, and efficiency. Inspired by this aesthetic, we rounded up nine elegantly compact accessories for the world traveler.
Above: Made from a blend of Japanese paper and fibers from the Kumaza plant, these Sasawashi Room Slippers are durable and lightweight; $67 at Rikumo.
Above: Those of us who have hastily grabbed a travel umbrella off a street vendor know that cheap umbrellas barely last through a single rainstorm. Not so the Unnurella. Made from dense but still lightweight fabric, this umbrella (at least according to the manufacturer) is sturdy and completely waterproof; $148 from Japan Trend Shop.
Above: For style on the go, this Leather Lace Hanger is made of wood leather; ¥3,240 ($28).
Above: Made by Stitch & Sew, a company based in Osaka, the versatile Convertible Canvas Back Pack can morph from pack, to tote, to sling; $220 at Rikumo.
Above: Though it’s actually made in Taiwan, Green Room’s Leather Cable Wrap is a favorite among stylish Japanese travelers who like to keep their cords neat and compact; £12 ($15) from Native & Co.
Above: Naturally Muji offers many convenient accessories for the world traveler. Their versatile Cotton Well-Fitted Neck Cushion (here in blue) also unhooks to lay flat; $24.50.
Above: By Traveler’s Co. Japan, the leather-bound Traveler’s Notebook and Traveler’s Passport Holder provides an elegant means for keeping a record of your travels; $49 and $45 respectively at Kolo.
Above: Eliminate red-eye with a purifying Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask; $24 from Natala Natala.
Want more clever concepts from Japan? See:
- Multipurpose Black Iron Towel Bars from Japan
- Back to Brass: Glamorous Bath Fixtures from Japan
- 10 Easy Pieces: Japanese Kitchen Knives
Finally, get more ideas on how to evaluate and choose the various accessories for your bathroom in our Remodeling 101 Guide: Bath Accessories.
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