Shiraho Kamakura

Shiraho Kamakura is a handmade bag and leather goods shop located on Komachi Street in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. The business represents a continuation of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and a commitment to working with natural materials. Originally founded in Tokyo in 1943 as a producer of custom-made bags for individuals and businesses, the shop relocated to its current location in Kamakura in 2003 under the name "Kamakura Canvas." In November 2018, the business expanded to include leather products and was renamed Shiraho Kamakura (meaning "White Sail Kamakura").

The shop specializes exclusively in canvas bags and leather goods, each handmade by individual artisans. The canvas used is 100% natural cotton and historically was used for ship sails, which is the origin of the Japanese word "hanpu" (帆布). The thick, durable material is selected based on the intended use and desired aesthetic qualities of each bag. The leather inventory is carefully curated and individually inspected by craftspeople who examine the natural characteristics of each hide before purchase. The shop's commitment to sustainability extends to using every part of the leather, with artisans collaborating to design new products that minimize waste.

Visitor experiences at Shiraho Kamakura center on viewing and selecting from the handmade inventory. The shop features two connected wooden deck structures linked together, creating a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that complements the historic character of Komachi Street. A distinctive large lighthouse sculpture adorns the storefront window as a landmark. The second floor houses working artisan studios for both canvas and leather production, where visitors can observe skilled craftspeople at work.

The shop also offers semi-custom belts on the second floor workshop, where customers can combine their choice of leather with various buckles sourced from Tokyo and surrounding areas. All products sold at Shiraho Kamakura are manufactured exclusively at this single Kamakura location, and the shop deliberately limits sales to in-person visits to allow customers to examine the quality and texture of materials firsthand.

To reach Shiraho Kamakura, visitors should travel to Kamakura Station via the Enoden Line or JR Yokosuka Line. From the station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the shop via Komachi Street, the main shopping thoroughfare in Kamakura. The area surrounding the shop is pedestrian-friendly and adjacent to other shops and restaurants. Admission is free, and visitors can spend as much time as they wish examining the products and observing the craftspeople at work. The shop is open to walk-in customers, and those interested in custom or semi-custom orders are encouraged to visit in person to discuss options with the staff.