BW Travels

Japan

Our Founder & Creative Director, Karine Dubner, recently returned from a magical trip to Japan, a bucket list experience that we are beyond excited to share.

“To say Japan is anything less than spectacular, would be an understatement. From an intricate culture like no other, to the most beautiful landscapes and architecture, Japan will forever be a source of inspiration for all that we create.” ~ Karine Dubner

Here are some of the highlights from her trip.

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

The ultimate hotel experience, in the heart of Tokyo, the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi is a next generation luxury experience fueled by the endless energy of the city. Soaring above the heart of the capital and offering expansive views of the Imperial Palace and towering skyscrapers, it is forever on our must-stay list. “The morning light is breathtaking!” ~ Karine

The Cherry Blossoms

Cherry Blossoms, known as ‘sakura’ in Japan, bring the promise of new life and new beginnings. The soft scent of the rare blossoms brings a vibrancy and optimism to the streets, becoming a topic of everyday conversation and transfixing each passerby in their visual glory. Indescribable beauty to say the least, day or night, the Cherry Blossoms are not to be missed.

Meiji Shrine

The Meiji Shrine, marked by majestic torii gates, was completed and dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and the Empress Shōken in 1920 and remains one of the most popular prayer and wedding destinations in Tokyo. Karine had the luck of witnessing a beautiful traditional wedding at this historical landmark. “The kimonos were awe-inspiring.” ~ Karine

Akihabara

Akihabara is considered by many to be the epicenter of modern Japanese otaku (video game) culture and is a major shopping district for all things electronic. Icons from popular Japanese art forms, anime and manga, are displayed prominently in the shops in the area, creating a visual experience like no other.

Vintage Shopping

From Harajuku, the fashion center of Tokyo, to Shibuya, Tokyo has more vintage shops than almost anywhere else in the world, providing boundless inspiration. From Berberjin, one of the most famous for denim, to Vintage Qoo Tokyo and its selection of high end designer brands, the choices are abundant…one store more fabulous than the next.

The Geishas

If you are lucky, you will have an encounter with a Geisha. Geishas are traditional female entertainers, hostesses and performing artists. Perhaps one of the greatest symbols of Japanese culture and history, they represent the beauty and elegance of Japan. “I saw a stunning maiko geisha (apprentice geisha) walking down the street and was filled with gratitude. To see such an iconic symbol in person will be forever in my mind.” ~ Karine

Karine’s final thoughts on this trip of a lifetime.

“Japanese culture is full of contradictions; the people are the most respectful I have ever met; everything is tiny, and very clean…small spaces filled with low sinks and diminutive glasses (perfect for me, as G-d knows I am little); my favorite part, an attention to detail that I have never experienced and will surely inform my future Brochu Walker designs."

SHOP KARINE'S KEY TRAVEL PIECES