About us

OTSUKATSU - good design | good life: Our Design of Japan

OTSUKATSU is our vision of Japan shaped by our travels, wanderings, and discoveries: remote spots, cable-lined alleyways, hours spent scouring Book Off stores, and cozy neighborhood eateries… We turn these memories into designs that intrigue, bring a smile, and, hopefully, will inspire you.

 

Our story

We are two people on this adventure, Thibaut and Gregory. We first went to Japan together in 2013 and couldn’t stop going back ever since. :)

Our love for Japan didn’t start there, though. We’ve known each other for 16 years and grew up in France during the 80s and 90s when video games, anime, and manga were becoming incredibly popular, they shaped our childhood. We've been diving even deeper into Japanese culture, especially since we met.

After launching OTSUKATSU in 2021, we went through a necessary pause to overcome personal challenges and refine our vision. Now back, we are more determined than ever to share our universe with you through our designs.

We highlight the details that moved us: an origami tucked inside a pair of chopstick sleeves, symbols etched on a manhole cover, or the subtle patterns of temple roof tiles. These fragments of life nourish each of our posters.

Based in both France and Japan, we continue to explore every corner of the country to enrich our collections and offer you a constantly refreshed perspective.

Our product & Design Philosophy

Our creations stem from constant co-creation: we envision each idea together, then refine it until the essence of Japan that moved us is fully revealed. Each product is a visual echo of our complicity and discoveries.

Once the designs are perfected, we carefully manage all the technical aspects and logistics to ensure our creations reach you in the best possible way.

Our values

Authenticity

Our designs are born from our personal experiences in Japan—ideas and creations entirely crafted by us, with no intermediaries.

Quality

We carefully select each material and ensure impeccable finishes so that every product becomes a lasting object.

Responsibility

Ethical practices at every step, respect for the environment, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

The OTSUKATSU Team