How KOTONOHA Was Created
KOTONOHA was born from a desire to bring Japan and Germany a little bit closer together.
I grew up in Japan and now live in Germany.
Since living here, I have rediscovered many things from my home country. What was completely natural to me in Japan, I now see with slightly different eyes.
At the same time, I have had the good fortune to meet many people in Germany who like Japan and are interested in the country, its culture, and everyday life there. Through their enthusiasm, I myself have rediscovered what makes Japan so special.
Over time, I developed a desire to create a place where you can discover things from Japan and also learn a little about the people and ideas behind them.
It is not necessarily about extraordinary things. Often, it is very everyday products that stand out through their design, their materials, or simply through a good idea.
With each box, I want to bring a small selection of them to Germany and share a piece of Japanese everyday life with you.
Why “KOTONOHA”?
“KOTONOHA” is an old Japanese expression for words.
Literally, it means “Leaves of Words.”
I like the name because words can carry thoughts and ideas far and wide—just as KOTONOHA wants to share the ideas and stories behind the products from Japan.
Our logo also reflects this idea: the plants and flowers represent Japan’s four seasons, while the lettering winds through them like a vine.
KOTONOHA connects Japanese products, their stories, and the people behind them with everyday life in Germany.