Omoshiro Box

Although Eriko Tanikaga is a wanderer at heart, she’s come to settle in the middle of Hirafu. Her little clothing and souvenir shop Omoshiro (interesting) Box, in the middle village just down from the traffic lights, is just as its name says – an interesting little space that houses an endless supply of fascinating tales from across Japan and the world. Most of her stock is sold on consignment from a range of Japanese suppliers. Anything made in third world countries is sourced through Fairtrade Organisation, who ensures decent working conditions and payment for its suppliers. The shop actually occupies the lower level of a pension whose owner, with the selfless generosity so common among Japanese in the area, doesn’t charge her rent, instead taking just a small portion of any profit as payment. If you’re looking for a unique and interesting souvenir, piece of clothing, jewellery and lots more, that comes with good karma free of charge, go for something out of the Box.