In major convenience store news: Family Mart has opened its first high-concept flagship store in Tokyo. Famima Park Azabudai is a sleek space overseen by the streetwear legend NIGO, who signed on as the convenience store’s creative director last year; it’s meant to blend convenience (of course) with design, fashion and lifestyle. Take a look inside here.
Other highlights from the web this week:
☆ A really wonderful new exhibition in Shibuya puts a much-needed spotlight on the women who helped shape Japanese photography. We walk you through some of the highlights.
☆ Certain parts of Japan have put a literal bounty on the devious invasive beetle species that’s been destroying cherry blossom trees — in Fussa, for instance, the capture of 10 red-necked longhorn beetles will net you a ¥500 gift card.
☆ All the can’t-miss firework shows and festivals in Tokyo this year, compiled for you with love.
— Callie Beusman, Editorial Director
Japanese convenience stores are already famous for punching well above their weight, offering everything from surprisingly good fried chicken to stylish clothing. Now, FamilyMart is looking to push the concept even further with a new flagship designed to be a destination in its own right.
Famima Park looks more like a lifestyle boutique than a typical convenience store, with a lush rooftop garden, outdoor seating and a takeaway Famima Stand (for, it goes without saying, Famichicki). There’s also a dedicated section for the popular Convenience Wear collection with dedicated fitting rooms.
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