Taiwan-Japan Collaboration Project: [hanamikoji X MIMURI] Noraneko Wants to Go to Okinawa

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52780206397_512fc9dab8_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52936623751_c30ecfec8b_b.jpg Hello, we are Lamy & Amber, the second generation of hanamikoji in Taiwan. Thank you for your interest in our products. hanamikoji jointly designs and produces shoes in Taiwan and Japan. We are proud that many customers are surprised by the comfort and beauty of our shoes the moment they try them on. Manufactured using an increasingly rare vulcanization process, with a focus on both charming aesthetics and comfort. Our goal is to create "shoes that are close to you every day." This time, to fulfill our long-held wish of letting more people know about the wonderful things from Taiwan and Japan, we decided to collaborate with MIMURI, a textile designer from Okinawa, to create a special shoe model. https://youtu.be/MTOxLlD1SnE Do you remember our origin story? hanamikoji is a footwear brand founded by two Taiwanese women who wanted to bring to life the inspiration they gathered during their travels in Japan. We also hope that through our endeavors, people in Japan and Taiwan can come to understand each other better. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52720851411_b3f34ef44a_b.jpg The MIMURI textiles featured in this collaboration are full of life, with charming floral patterns that can lift your spirits just by looking at them. If you love Okinawa, you're likely familiar with them. To commemorate the launch of our limited-edition collaboration shoes with MIMURI, we are also simultaneously showcasing them on Creema SPRINGS in Japan. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52720854561_778025c035_b.jpg MIMURI is a brand founded by creator MIMURI (pictured right) with the concept of "strolling through Okinawa." They produce and sell exciting textiles designed with motifs of Okinawan towns, creatures, and plants. The vibrant patterns and colorful textiles are so captivating, you'll want to pick them up and admire them. Many may have already seen them in Okinawan guidebooks. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52720335352_90b45fd56f_o.jpg In the winter of 2021, our hanamikoji partners in Japan, the Ueno couple, initiated discussions for this collaboration. After numerous meetings, we discussed textile patterns, colors, shoe shapes, and more. With meticulous hand-cutting and pasting, we went through over ten rounds of prototyping (typically, new product development involves only 2-3 prototypes). These more than ten sample pairs speak volumes about our passion for these shoes. After more than a year, and with input from customer surveys in both Taiwan and Japan, we finalized two styles: "Kaka Nichi" (Sweet Day) and "Kichirin Nichi" (Bicycle Day). https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52721368593_c7d64b4ec3_b.jpg This time, our Taiwanese artisans personally oversaw every step of the process, including bonding, mold creation, stitching, shaping, and finally, high-temperature vulcanization. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722123872_775d9bbbf0_b.jpg This is a time-consuming manufacturing method known as vulcanization. The high-temperature vulcanization process securely bonds the fabric and rubber components of the shoe, resulting in a soft, flexible, and irreplaceable feel. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723130763_911ab5182a_b.jpg ▲ Vulcanization process—the moment of pressurized heating in the oven. Finally, we've incorporated insoles made of pigskin and latex, offering both charm and just the right amount of bounce. Now, the hanamikoji X MIMURI collaboration shoes are officially here! Just looking at them can lift your spirits, and wearing them makes your heart feel lighter. We are delighted to have created shoes that will make you want to wear them to Okinawa. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52961889715_fa66f35bd6_b.jpg To create these shoes, MIMURI sent a generous amount of fabric to Taiwan. This time, we've upcycled the fabric selvedges, an unavoidable byproduct of shoemaking, to create charming coasters. While supplies are limited, early purchasers have a good chance of receiving one. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52728670536_d5e3b8908a_b.jpg Anyone wearing these shoes will think, "I want to go to Okinawa in these." We hope this becomes your sentiment. We hope that many who love Okinawa, Japanese friends interested in Taiwan, or anyone looking for comfortable and cute shoes will discover these. These shoes are being sold simultaneously in Taiwan and Japan. We are striving to bring the best of both Japan and Taiwan to each other. We would be deeply grateful for your support and recommendations. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723066375_faca82034d_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722658401_b94224667e_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722230132_efe89775a7_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722160077_d3d9cb5f93_b.jpg MIMURI's studio and shop are located in the Naha district. The designer created the textile "Machineko" inspired by the scenery she observed while walking through the town. Red-tiled roofs, stone *shisa* (guardian lions), hibiscus flowers, bougainvillea, vibrant greenery, and stray cats roaming the streets. If you've ever walked through the streets of Okinawa, you'll understand the meaning behind this design. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722669841_7075e8d482_b.jpg Paired with this textile is hanamikoji's popular "Kaka Nichi" series, known for its ease of wear. MIMURI textiles are extensively used for the main fabric of the shoes, with a MIMURI tag at the heel to commemorate this collaboration. And the ants on the back are simply too adorable. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723166243_8f681621d1_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722160117_8c5ae68c8c_b.jpg ● Product Materials ● Name: Kaka Nichi Series Shoes - Noraneko (Stray Cat) Materials: Cotton floral fabric, breathable vegetable-tanned genuine pigskin latex insole, rubber sole Weight: Approximately 300g per shoe Origin: Taiwan ※ Please choose your usual size. These shoes feature elastic side panels for a snug and comfortable fit. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723015524_6b1741cfa5_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722677041_a971527623_b.jpg This design features the Okinawan-themed textile "Niwa" (Garden). MIMURI, originally from Ishigaki Island, designed this inspired by her grandmother's garden. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722142262_f27ce8508e_b.jpg We've boldly incorporated the vibrant fabric into the front and heel of these sneakers. While it might seem a bit unconventional, it's designed to be easily paired with outfits, making it accessible for those new to wearing floral shoes. The white Mimuri tag on the heel complements the navy blue shoes beautifully. The MIMURI logo and the seashell motif are refreshingly charming. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723092855_5b969f58b3_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722687096_35f54ea0ac_b.jpg ● Product Materials ● Name: Kichirin Nichi Series Shoes - Niwa (Garden) Materials: Cotton floral fabric, breathable vegetable-tanned genuine pigskin latex insole, rubber sole Weight: Approximately 300g per shoe Origin: Taiwan ※ Please choose your usual size. The adjustable laces are accommodating for those with higher insteps. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722163612_47523336ef_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723101825_b5ce9e139a_b.jpg "When I'm on my feet working, I choose these shoes." "I'm impressed by the excellent cushioning and comfort of these shoes." "I'm satisfied that the insoles support this level of comfort." Insoles sold separately for NT$280: https://www.pinkoi.com/product/LbDvEM7s Crafted from layered Japanese pigskin and latex, these insoles offer just the right amount of resilience. We highly recommend trying them. In addition to using them as replacements for your purchased shoes, some customers have found them to be excellent additions to their own footwear, particularly boots and sneakers. *Due to their structure, they are not suitable for high heels. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723169653_66f0bf7a5f_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722697771_8c98f71b92_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722692031_022c2d6326_b.jpg The pattern placement on our floral fabric products may vary due to random cutting. The color of the product images may differ slightly due to lighting and computer monitor settings. Please refer to the actual product for color accuracy. Vegetable-tanned pigskin is a natural material, so variations in texture and markings are normal. These are limited edition items and will not be restocked once sold out. International purchases are final and cannot be returned or exchanged. Please feel free to email us with any questions. We are happy to assist you. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723099370_37d47ccba4_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54278313151_954b3a3717_o.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722692016_cb06a9e56e_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722704211_f9b9dc1242_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723169613_92a7fdf9da_b.jpg As the floral fabric is delicate and composed of multiple bonded layers, professional shoe cleaning is recommended for maintenance. The insoles are made of genuine leather. If they get wet, please dry them as soon as possible. For light-colored shoes, we recommend using a commercially available waterproof spray to protect against water stains. Please try on the shoes briefly on a clean floor within seven days of receipt. To be eligible for an exchange due to size issues, the shoes must remain clean. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54728054079_35aeae0ee3_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54726996372_3f6fe9f740_b.jpg **We welcome your inquiries.** https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723169603_4dd088386e_b.jpg The birth of hanamikoji handmade shoes stemmed from the desire of two Taiwanese women to embody the inspiration they found during their travels in Kyoto through footwear. Currently, our partners in Japan have also joined in the shoe design process. The shoes are crafted by Taiwanese artisans with over 50 years of experience. While the intricate handcrafting and vulcanization process may result in minor imperfections, each pair is meticulously inspected before shipment. We do not engage in mass production; instead, we create and sell products in limited quantities using carefully selected fabrics. For this reason, we design and produce various types of new shoes that incorporate diverse fabrics to bring joy to everyday life. All of these shoes feature soft soles for ease of wear. Some are also suitable for more formal occasions. Just as you wear specialized sneakers for sports, hanamikoji aims to be "shoes that accompany your daily life." We hope our shoes add a touch of delight to your everyday moments. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722962934_04dae9c249_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722691971_daf6bafb76_b.jpg The collaboration shoes required more time and effort than our usual productions. To cherish our partners and create something that satisfies both sides, countless adjustments were necessary. Nevertheless, we believe that collaborations between Japan and Taiwan are meaningful, and we will continue to strive for them. In the future, we envision collaborating with textiles and creators from all over Japan to produce shoes. We want to let many people know that we are fostering "Taiwan-Japan exchange" through our products and turn it into a force for continued effort in the future. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723138155_ce6e6463b4_b.jpg ▲ Taiwan-Japan collaboration display. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52722948069_4fd6b1de7a_b.jpg "MIMURI" is a brand founded by creator MIMURI with the concept of "strolling through Okinawa." MIMURI hails from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, and spent her student years at an art university in Tokyo. It is said that she struggled to find "something she wanted to draw" during her student days. After graduation, she sought to re-examine herself and was deeply moved by the scenery of Ishigaki Island. The vibrant nature, the colorful gardens – an island brimming with subjects to paint. MIMURI's most popular "Niwa" (Garden) pattern depicts her grandmother's garden. It can be considered MIMURI's signature textile. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52728666731_a8d61b6bd6_b.jpg Since 2011, she has operated a studio and shop on Ukishima Street in Naha, a charming area lined with unique stores. In addition to being featured in numerous Okinawan travel guides, MIMURI is active in various fields, including events at department stores like Shinjuku Isetan, collaborative product sales with airlines, and the design of MIMURI-themed rooms in Okinawan resort hotels. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52723099300_c589afe030_b.jpg Thank you for reading to the end. Put on these shoes and journey to Okinawa, or anywhere in Taiwan that calls to you. We would be overjoyed if as many people as possible could purchase them! https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52729047705_37afedfb33_b.jpg