Sanpo Studios Journal
Stories from the Individuals and brands taking inspiration from and into the outdoors.
Looking Closely with Jun Oson
Jun Oson is an artist based in Kamakura whose work balances humor, surrealism, and a quiet sensitivity to everyday life. His characters—instantly recognizable by their distinctive peanut-shaped faces—move through worlds where humans, animals, robots, and monsters coexist without hierarchy or explanation.
More interviews
Masakazu Fukuyama of Toned Trout
From the headwaters of the Tone River in Minakami, Masakazu Fukuyama has built Toned Trout around the relationship between mountain stream fishing, style, and everyday life. In this interview he shares his perspective on creativity, environment, and finding clarity through simplicity.
Clara Everest of Clara Knitwear
Made by hand, informed by landscape, a softer approach to outdoor clothing. Clara Everest’s work considers the entire lifecycle of each garment.
Kylie Yang
Kylie Yang has built an outdoor life shaped by action, service, and community. From thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail to creating more welcoming access to the outdoors, her work reflects a belief that time spent outside can offer something to everyone.
Shimpei Hara of 4c Studios
To Shimpei Hara, designer of 4c studios, climbing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. His brand sits at the intersection of city and crag, crafting apparel for climbers who move fluidly between daily life and vertical challenges. Through a made-to-order system, 4c studios weaves individual stories into every piece.
Masaki Miyazaki of MIYAGEN Trail Engineering
A fourth-generation sake shop successor and former outdoor engineer, Masaki Miyazaki of MIYAGEN Trail Engineering, fuses tradition with innovation to create meticulously crafted adventure gear.
Masaaki Mita of Yamatomichi and Empty Bottlers
Masaaki Mita moves fluidly between roles—photographer, writer, editor, brand founder, father—and in 2024, he found himself busy in every way. In this conversation, we talk about learning to embrace the adventure, his favorite work with Yamatomichi, and how The Empty Bottlers emerged from a desire to simply have fun.
Suzette Lee
Suzette Lee is a creative director, photographer, and multidisciplinary artist whose work captures the quiet beauty of nature. Drawing from her perspective and family life, she creates stories that feel both personal and universal.
Austin Rossborough
Self-taught illustrator and art director Austin collaborates with brands like Hidden NY, Tarvas, Cafe Mountain, and Peace Cabin, sharing his influences, process, and advice for young creatives.
Toru Hirama of PLATFORM
During the pandemic, we discovered Toru Hirama and PLATFORM’s subtly iconic work—simple yet precise designs that redefine carry with technical craftsmanship.
Kiyotaka Shinoki of Monroe Garden Outdoor
We discovered Kiyotaka Shinoki’s vintage outdoor gear collection in 2021 through Gear Patrol’s feature on Monroe Garden Outdoor. By 2022, Kiyo had moved from his Brooklyn basement and welcomed us to his home for coffee, a chat, and a look through his archive.
Daniel & Angela of Peace Cabin
Peace Cabin, founded in 2020 by Angela and Daniel in Pennsylvania, crafts eco-friendly, stylish cushions that blend comfort with sustainability, inspired by the outdoors.
Takuya Miura of Hariyama Productions
Founded in 2009 by Takuya Miura, Hariyama Productions crafts minimalist outdoor and everyday gear, in addition to contributing to Japan’s MYOG community.
TOKYO OUTDOOR SHOP GUIDE
Tokyo is a paradise for outdoor gear lovers, with everything from big-name retailers to tucked-away specialty shops. Whether you’re after ultralight hiking gear, technical apparel, or handcrafted accessories, this guide highlights some of the best spots worth checking out.