Top 30+ Best Japanese Streetwear Brands [A Complete Guide]

Have you ever wondered what Japanese Streetwear is and which are the top Japanese streetwear brands? The article will satisfy you with a detailed answer by providing full information from definition to the list of top streetwear brands in this country.

If you’re a fan of updating fashion, you can’t miss out on streetwear style. One of the most outstanding in this field we shouldn’t ignore is Japanese street fashion with a lot of Japanese streetwear brands. The trend has been widespread all over the world and even prevalent in many fashion shows. Today, in this article, we will together explore what Japanese streetwear is, the history of this style, and some outstanding brand names.

1. What Is Japanese Streetwear?

It can be said that Japanese street fashion is one of their most unique styles. It was the creative combination of local and foreign brand names. Besides, street fashion is well-known as a style that combines many elements such as music, sports, fashion, and many others to express one’s ego through creative outfits. The important feature which makes them become different from others is the lifestyle choice.

At that time, the young in this country had changed their mind a lot about the definition of fashion. They showed their personality through the way they choose their own mode. As many articles before, Shibuya and Harajuku were considered to be the foundation of Japanese streetwear. So, let’s explore how the style has developed and affected fashionistas.

2. History Of Japanese Streetwear

If you walk on the Japanese streets in the 1940s, you might have a chance to contemplate traditional clothes like kimonos. However, in the 70s and ’80s, when American-style music like hip-hop was popular and had remarkable effects on the Japanese youth, their fashion also changed a lot.

One of the most famous cultures at that time is “kawaii” inspired by some magazines like “Olive”. After a decade, many Japanese streets were full of shops with various styles. Because the demand for streetwear style was too high, the appearance of Shibuya 109 and Laforet was like saviors. Thanks to the rise of many different trends, Tokyo became one of the fashion centers at that time.

Besides some famous brands, there were some names welcomed by many people such as UNDERCOVER, Takahashi, Nigo, and Urahara. Until now, a lot of streetwear brands still exist and have great effects on Japanese Streetwear fashionistas.

>>> Read more: [Update] Top 12 Famous Japanese Online Clothing Stores

3. Top 30+ Japanese Streetwear Brands You Should Know About

Here is a comprehensive list of top Japanese streetwear brands. Be sure not to overlook any of them, as you might find yourself looking for them in the future.

3.1. NEIGHBORHOOD

The Japanese Streetwear Brand was founded in 1994 by Shinsuke Takizawa or Shin. The label is considered one of the roots of Japanese streetwear. They concentrate on punk and biker styles, which were inspired strongly by countercultural moves. And now, they collaborate with a famous Western brand and their trend also changes considerably based on western culture. We can see that even when receiving the new wind-like military trend, they still remain their unique icons such as selvedge denim.

3.2. A BATHING APE (BAPE)

It’s not surprising when BAPE is known as one of the leading Japanese street fashion brand names. It was founded by Tomoaki Nagao and in 1993, the first store was opened in Harajuku. Anyone from all over the world desires to visit one of BAPE’s 19 stores to find some items they want.

The products from BAPE often make people satisfied at the first sight because they’re casual and customers can use them in daily life. However, they still have some special icons printed on every item. This is considered to be a unique print that you don’t want to miss.

3.3. UNDERCOVER

UNDERCOVER was founded by Jun Takahashi. This brand is also considered to be the embodiment of Japanese streetwear. Takahashi was considered to be one of the most famous designers in this community. Can you believe that he established his own brand when he was just in Bunka Fashion College? His original label was inspired by Rei Kawakubo and Vivienne Westwood. Now, his branch labels have many chances to cooperate with worldwide ones like Nike, Supreme, or Uniqlo.

3.4. COMME des GARÇONS

COMME des GARÇONS was established in 1969 by Rei Kawakubo. It was well-known as a top Japanese streetwear brand. Like Rei Kawakubo’s style, COMME des GAR*ONS combines avant-garde design and an eye-catching logo on almost every item. Over the years, the brand name has witnessed the revolution of Japanese streetwear. However, they still keep their own features which define the unique styles in the Japanese market.

3.5. Yohji Yamamoto

It is understandable that Yohji Yamamoto is recognized as a top fashion designer in Japan. The distinctive characteristic makes them outstanding among many Japanese streetwear brands in the back. This color is a special way to create their own identity.

Recently, their designs have been dominating the streets of Japan with their mix of traditional Japanese elements and contemporary visions. Yohji Yamamoto’s collaboration with Adidas for Y-3 has been among the most successful collaborations of all time. That’s the reason why Y-3 is also considered to be one of the foremost streetwear brands all over the world.

>>> Read more: 15+ Best Japanese Clothing Brands Popular You Should Know

3.6. Suicoke

Although nowadays, it is known as a high-quality brand name, not everyone actually knows their behind story. The label was just founded in 2006. At that time, they sold wooden Matryoshka Dolls instead of clothes as at present. It just became really famous when there was a collaboration with a famous Italian company to make an ultra-comfy foam base for their now-famous sandals. A variety of designs for both men and women are available with its lightweight, functional footwear that has adjustable Velcro straps.

3.7. Visvim

Visvim was founded in 2000 but it quickly became one of the most popular Japanese Streetwear Brands. The founder of the brand is Hiroki Nakamura, known to give up his designer to start up this label. It can be estimated that Visivim is the perfect combination of traditional and contemporary trends. Taking its inspiration from the Native American moccasin, Nakamura’s FBT is most influential in depicting this concept. An ornate tassel and durable Vibram outsole combine natural leather construction with an elegant look.

3.8. Cav Empt

Cav Empt was founded in 2011 after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant was damaged by a huge earthquake. Then, its style, the bleak aesthetic was affected by the darkness and hushed background. Now, it consists of several minimalistic pieces with elaborate silhouettes, but they also produce graphic pieces. One of the most huge inspirations for them is dystopian work, like Phillip K. Dick. That’s why you can see the cyberpunk aesthetic style clearly on their lookbook.

3.9. BEAMS

Etsuko Shitara and Osamu Shigematsu created the label with designs rooted in American culture, specifically between the 1930s and 1970s. Originally a shop selling American Life products in Harajuku, BEAMS now has 160 locations and 4 lines. The brand has since collaborated with brands such as Converse and expanded its line to cover European streetwear and women’s clothing trends.

3.10. Kapital

Kapital was started in 1985 by Toshikiyo Hirata. He named the company after the Japan denim capital, the hometown of his founder. Even though the brand started as a sewing factory, it has now grown into one of the most respected denim manufacturers in the world. As soon as the company changed its name to Kapital in 1996, everything changed.

Having gained experience with other businesses, Hirata began to apply his craft design and manufacturing skills to the capital’s trademark cut-and-sew process. Kapital’s designs always contain many delicate details that are now their signature that they have reinvented the Americana style with innovative crafts and dyeing methods.

>>> Read more: How To Buy From Beams Japan? [Guide Step-by-step]

3.11. Wacko Maria

Founded in 2005 by Keiji Ishizuka and Atsuhiko Mori, Wacko Maria-style was based on the inspiration of art, music, and film. Even though they are one of the relatively new Japanese street fashion brands in the industry, they still have an impressive mark that everyone admires. WACKO MARIA clothing is a great mixture of bold colors and Japanese patterns. Not only clothing production, they even organize many events where artists have chances to discuss and cooperate.

3.12. Uniqlo

The Japanese Streetwear Brand was founded in the 1980s. It is also another name that can combine flexibly between traditional and modern styles. It can be the most popular streetwear brand in Japan because almost all locals shop their clothes in Uniqlo stores.

The brand is famous not only in Japan but also widespread in America and Europe. Due to the fact that they are reliable for basic principles as well as trends, their audience is probably so loyal. Despite being more aggressive than its Japanese counterparts, Uniqlo contributes greatly to Japanese streetwear culture.

3.13. WTAPS

WTAPS was founded in 1996 by Tetsu Nishiyama. The designs of WTAPS take inspiration from authentic military designs. In order to create the brand’s aesthetic, authentic military designs are integrated with streetwear sensibilities.  In Japan, WTAPS is just as popular as Supreme. When they release products, they’re in high demand. Their products sell out rapidly.

3.14. Mastermind Japan

Mastermind Japan was founded in 1987. The label is also known for two distinct characteristics: their use of black on virtually everything and their Skull and Crossbones logo. Taking their inspiration from the punk and goth scene, mastermind Japan’s products are known for their quality and attention to detail. As part of its 20th- anniversary celebrations, the brand launched a global label called mastermind WORLD. Consequently, mastermind JAPAN worked side-by-side with mastermind WORLD to release collections for various markets.

3.15. FACETASM

The Japanese Streetwear Brand was founded by designer Hiromichi Ochiai in 2007. FACETASM might be more your style if the minimalist stylings are not your style. There is no categorization for the brand. As opposed to this, each collection is meant to differ from the prior. Even so, Japanese street culture is expressed through their concept, and this has been the case since their previous collections. They tend to create designs that are playful, bold, and unique.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Japan Shopping Websites You Need To Know

3.16. and wander

In the heart of Tokyo’s dynamic Shibuya, and wander was launched in 2011 by Mihoko Mori and Keita Ikeuchi. With a reputation for superior technical fabrics and exquisite craftsmanship, And Wander has captured the hearts of fashion-conscious individuals with its stylish clothing, outerwear, and practical gear.

And wander’s garments combine function with fashion, incorporating GORE-TEX fabrics, taped seams, and plenty of toggles in a subdued, versatile color range of earth tones.

3.17. Mizuno

Inspired by the thrill of American baseball, Rihachi Mizuno brought his passion home and founded Mizuno in 1906, starting with a lineup of baseball equipment.. Over the years, Mizuno has grown into a pioneer in technical sportswear, offering cutting-edge gear for various sports, including skiing,  tennis, handball, and more.

Thanks to pioneering advancements like Enerzy Foam and Wave technology, Mizuno has maintained its reputation in performance footwear. Mizuno’s 2018 launch of the Sportstyle line, combining innovative technology with stylish casual footwear, has garnered it a new following among sneaker lovers. Thus far, Mizuno has strongly asserted its place as one of the top Japanese clothing brands.

3.18. Medicom Toy

Entering its 20th year, Medicom Toy has established a strong connection with Japanese streetwear and fashion, even though the mix of toys and apparel may seem unusual on the surface.

The company has made its mark by producing replicas of cultural icons like Andy Warhol and the Sex Pistols, along with street culture figures like Futura2000’s Pointman, KAWS’ Companion, and A Bathing Ape’s Baby Milo, offering physical manifestations of the culture that fascinates us.

The most iconic example is the brand’s Bearbrick series, which features a unique bear figurine decorated with a wide range of graphics and visual elements, celebrating everything from the Grateful Dead to Star Wars to Daft Punk and more. It is an ideal choice for streetwear enthusiasts looking to transition into home decor—just be sure to consult your partner first.

3.19. Asics

From its inception in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka, ASICS has risen to prominence in the global sportswear industry, celebrated for its footwear. The brand’s name, originating from the phrase “anima sana in corpore sano” in Latin, meaning “a sound mind in a healthy body”, underscores ASICS’ dedication to fostering both physical and mental health through sports. 

The brand’s running shoes have become a staple, frequently ranked among the top picks for athletes and running aficionados. Beyond its athletic focus, ASICS has expanded into the lifestyle sector in recent years, leveraging the popularity of classic designs like Gel Lyte 3 and the 360 Quantum. These shoes have become the foundation for significant collaborations with top industry names like Atmos, Ronnie Fieg and Afew. 

As consumer tastes increasingly favor utilitarian, hiking, and running-inspired designs, maintaining its dominance as a leading force in the athletic footwear industry and beyond.

3.20. South2 West8

Founded initially as a physical storefront, South2 West8 emerged in Sapporo, Northern Japan.South2 West8 belongs to the Nepenthes collective, established by Keizo Shimizu, which also features brands like Engineered Garments, Needles, RANDT, and AIE.

In its recent collections, South2 West8 has taken a more updated approach, introducing a few brightly colored or heavily patterned items aimed at urban environments. The brand’s latest collection merges tie-dye prints with traditional netted fishing vests, showing that staying rooted in outdoor traditions doesn’t exclude embracing modern trends. 

With its playful yet practical aesthetic, South2 West8 has secured a distinctive place in the Japanese streetwear brand market, maintaining its unique character in a competitive market.

>>> Read more: How to Buy from Amazon Japan? A Guide for Non-Japanese Shoppers

3.21. Nanamica

For nearly 15 years, Nanamica has been a leading force in Japanese fashion, expertly combining form, fashion, and function. Founded in 2003 by Eiichiro Homma, the brand is renowned for its products that pair weather-ready technical features with a rustic, natural style.

Recognized for its innovative designs, Nanamica’s pieces exhibit technical skill while retaining an air of urban sophistication. The NYC store offers a captivating shopping experience with a standout collection that seamlessly blends style and functionality.

The brand is also behind The North Face’s highly sought-after Japanese sub-label, The North Face Purple Label, which is admired in the community of streetwear brands in Japan for its refined reinterpretations of classic TNF designs.

3.22. Y-3

Over the past twenty years, the groundbreaking collaboration between Adidas and Yohji Yamamoto, under the Y-3 label, has redefined the intersection of high fashion and streetwear. Beyond just apparel, Y-3’s signature pieces are bold design statements that have revolutionized the industry, representing a seamless blend of  streetwear, sportswear, and luxury.

By merging streetwear, sportswear, and luxury, Y-3 has created groundbreaking footwear like the futuristic PureBOOST, the performance-driven Run Boost, and the innovative 4D Runner. Even with changing trends, this brand still remains at the forefront of innovation, reinforcing its position as a leader in blending style, sports, and sophistication.

3.23. Junya Watanabe

Known for his innovative twists on traditional menswear, Watanabe pushes the boundaries of cuts, textiles, and form, carrying forward the avant-garde legacy of COMME des GARÇONS as a trailblazer in Japanese fashion.

The brand’s innovative use of diverse fabrics in its patchwork designs, particularly in collaboration with Levi’s, has recently garnered critical recognition. Despite this, Watanabe’s work is fundamentally rooted in an exploration of various clothing styles and their ability to transform the wearer.

This approach leads to workwear being reimagined with updated cuts and futuristic features, jackets adorned with intricate decorations that can be worn inside-out, and traditional pieces like suits and overcoats being disrupted by unexpected textures and accents. This limitless creativity is what has established Watanabe as one of the top names in men’s Japanese streetwear fashion.

3.24. Needles

Recognized for its distinctive blend of a vibrant Japanese touch with American style, Needles finds inspiration in cultural legends like Miles Davis and Steve McQueen. 

Under the artistic leadership of Keizo Shimizu, the brand’s wide-ranging offerings include billowing BDU pants, loose blazers, and light floral shirts. Every season, Shimizu’s collections revolve around a distinct inspiration, resulting in pieces that effortlessly blend into the Needles narrative.

Shimizu meticulously curates his collections each season around specific themes, offering garments that vary from vintage military surplus looks to essentials that evoke the style of 70s academics. From simple suits to military-style outerwear and plush loungewear, Needles captures a relaxed, cool vibe that permeates its varied lineup.

3.25. Evisu

During the early 2000s, Evisu emerged as a major player among good Japanese streetwear brands, becoming a favorite among fashion fans and rappers. With its instantly recognizable seagull logo, the brand pays tribute to its heritage while incorporating current styles, securing its lasting presence in the dynamic world of fashion.

Nowadays, even though its golden era may be behind it, Evisu continues to engage audiences with vintage-inspired collections, keeping its cultural relevance alive.

3.26. Auralee

Auralee sets itself apart with its celebration of subtlety and quiet sophistication, defining the essence of refined fashion. Avoiding flashy designs and brand-centric narratives, this Japanese brand emphasizes minimalism, gracefully redefining classic style. Each garment is meticulously crafted, prioritizing comfort and elegance, featuring soft hues and carefully considered details.

Auralee’s collections are thoughtfully curated, featuring only essential pieces with a strong focus on textiles. From ethically sourced wools to luxurious cottons, the brand’s offerings—ranging from earthy winter coats and cozy knitwear to versatile oversized trousers—seamlessly blend into any wardrobe, quickly becoming go-to staples.

3.27. Mishka

Mishka, a prominent name in the indie rap world, has distinguished itself with designs inspired by anime and touches of Japanese style. Even though the brand is not Japanese, it takes significant inspiration from the lively anime world and Japanese cultural elements.

Mishka’s latest designs heavily incorporate visuals from both popular and lesser-known video games and cartoons, displaying box art from PlayStation classics such as Silent Hill and Final Fantasy 7, enhanced by the Mishka logo. In a landscape saturated with understated fashion, Mishka’s daring designs stand out, captivating fans globally with their bold references to iconic media.

3.28. Public Space

Public Space rose to fame during the vaporwave era but has seen a decrease in popularity in recent years.. Nonetheless, the brand’s nostalgic clothing, which embraces the Web 1.0 aesthetic, continues to resonate with enthusiasts who appreciate its lasting appeal.

Public Space’s clothing captures nostalgia with its mood-driven designs, drawing inspiration from iconic franchises like Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokémon, offering a level of uniqueness not seen in standard retail options.

Moreover, the use of color gradients, reminiscent of the Word Art and MS Paint days, adds a special touch that enhances the garments’ retro vibe. Some designs stir a sense of melancholy, while others (e.g: quirky Kool-Aid onesie), offer a whimsical and playful contrast.

3.29. Kikillo

Kikillo channels the essence of Takashi Murakami’s art into their own creative expression by translating anime elements into surreal designs that decorate sweatpants, crewnecks, and pillowcases. Like Murakami, Kikillo distorts and reshapes familiar characters into glitchy, melting forms that challenge traditional boundaries.

The brand evokes Warhol’s style by repeating imagery, encouraging viewers to delve into the depth of their designs. Every piece of clothing transforms into a canvas for mesmerizing yet undeniably stylish statements. bridging the gap between fashion and art. Kikillo’s homage to Murakami’s brilliance drives the brand to new creative heights, offering a captivating blend of streetwear and surrealism that sparks the imagination.

3.30. Issey Miyake

Issey Miyake is regarded as one of fashion’s true innovators, standing alongside peers such as Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo. While Kawakubo explored avant-garde realms and Yamamoto fused tradition with innovation, Miyake championed the integration of technical advancements and technology into fashion.

Miyake’s work is characterized by pioneering techniques, including pleated garments that maintain their folds after washing, and the iconic prism handbag with geometric panels which captures the essence of digital fluidity. His designs elevate fashion to the realm of functional art, improving the wearer’s overall well-being.

3.31. Sacai

Sacai, a Tokyo-based label established by Chitose Abe in 1999, defines itself through its distinctive fusion of casual and formal elements, a concept Abe honed while working at the esteemed Japanese labels COMME des GARÇONS and Junya Watanabe. Sacai swiftly achieved acclaim in both high-fashion and streetwear circles, celebrated for its gender-fluid aesthetic and exquisite attention to detail. 

Sacai’s primary collections are characterized by Abe’s mastery of androgynous silhouettes, marked by subtle yet powerful design details, whereas its collaborations usually lean into streetwear influences. Recently notable, the partnership between Sacai and Nike on the LD Waffle silhouette attracted significant attention, demonstrating the brand’s ability to resonate across various fashion domains.

>>> Read more: How To Buy From Mercari Japan with Janbox Proxy Service

4. Some Outstanding Japanese Streetwear Styles

Actually, through the timeline, there are a lot of streetwear styles that have remained from the past until now. But we just want to focus on the styles in the nearest periods, the 1990s, to see how they changed their fashion until now. By looking at street fashion at that time, we can understand more thoroughly the remarkable development of the industry.

• Urahara (1999)

Urahara is also a very popular style among women. Boys-looking girls with T-shirts, jeans, and sneakers are more common in Harajuku.

• Ganguro gal (1999)

The ganguro gal style spread from Shibuya to its surrounding areas. Some of the former kogyaru-stylers have also gradually transformed into ganguro gals. One of the most distinctive features of this style is the combination of wigs, false eyelashes, and dark skin.

• Kawaii: Joshi Kosei (1998)

High school girls dominated the fashion trend in the second half of the 1990s. Boys’ school uniforms were changed to blazers instead of the traditional gakuran, and girls’ sailor uniforms to blazers and pleated skirts. As a result, fashion has become more mainstream.

• Kawaii: Joshi Kosei (1997)

Toward the end of the 1990s, high school girls led the fashion trends. School uniforms in Tokyo have been renewed: boys’ uniforms changed to blazers instead of the traditional gakuran, and girls’ sailor uniforms changed to blazers and pleated skirts. This has raised awareness that fashion is a part of everyday life.

5. Where To Buy Japanese Streetwear?

Buying clothes from Japanese streetwear brands can be easier if you’re living in Japan. For those who don’t live there, however, there are definitely a few things to keep in mind.

5.1. In Japan

Probably the best place to start is in Harajuku, the place where streetwear culture originated in Japan. Throughout the streets, you will find a variety of boutiques that offer items in all price ranges. The Laforet mall, a popular place to shop for various Japanese subcultures, features dozens of levels, with each offering a different kind of Japanese street brand.

In addition to Harajuku, Shibuya is also a good place to shop for Japanese streetwear. Shoppers will also be able to find BAPE and Supreme stores in this neighborhood – both leading brands in streetwear culture.

Another place you can go is Ginza and pop by Dover Street Market. In this market, you can easily purchase from the well-known Japanese streetwear brands to unknown ones. In case you’re following the vintage styles, Shimokitazawa is an ideal destination for you. Finally, in case you can’t find any nearby stores to pick your streetwear clothes, the stores of Uniqlo are always ready to welcome you because you can easily catch up with a showroom of this brand in every corner.

5.2. Outside Japan

If you are outside of Japan, online shopping or using a Japanese shopping proxy service is your best bet for accessing the top Japan streetwear brands. Most of the aforementioned Japanese streetwear brands offer international shipping, so you won’t have to worry about missing out on your favorite pieces.

However, it can be challenging to order directly from these stores if you do not understand Japanese. Additionally, not all brands offer affordable shipping to your area. This is why Janbox proxy service is a recommended choice.

Simply type or paste the brand name into the search bar, and you will get hundreds of results. Whether you are looking for the luxury or cheap Japanese streetwear brands, everything you want is right there for you.

Just browse through, choose the clothes you like, add them to your cart, and pay for the items along with the service fee. In a few days, your order will be delivered right to your door. Head over to Janbox now to get men or women’s Japanese streetwear you’ve been eyeing.

Janbox is your connection to the global e-commerce market, giving you access to billions of products from Japan and the USA. We ensure fast and efficient shipping to over 220 countries, with optimized shipping costs and free repackaging.

6. FAQs About Japanese Streetwear

Along with introducing the most well-known Japanese streetwear brands, Janbox has also gathered some frequently asked questions about this topic in the following information section.

Conclusion

Delving into the world of Japanese streetwear brands, it is clear that these labels provide more than clothing – they offer a window into Japan’s dynamic culture and artistic spirit. Their trendsetting ability and willingness to challenge norms have captivated fashion fans worldwide. The ongoing global admiration for Japanese streetwear speaks to its enduring allure, ensuring that these brands will remain influential in shaping the future of fashion for years ahead.

If you are aiming to buy items from affordable Japanese streetwear brands, make sure to stop by Janbox. We are here to support you every step of the way until you find the items that meet your demand.

Website: https://janbox.com

Email: [email protected]