Strictly speaking this isn’t solely a kimono boutique, but a hybrid of a museum, workshop and a boutique. And that’s exactly what you need when searching for your own bespoke piece. Learn about the traditional, 500-year-old Kaga Yuzen dyeing technique used to create the intricate silk designs, gaze upon the gallery of prestigious works and try on your choice of kimonos. Feeling inspired? Try your at hand-painting your own handkerchief or tote bag.

Simply shopping for souvenirs? Buy handmade. We particularly like stocking up on chopsticks and tableware. Located in Wajima in the Noto Peninsula, Wajima Kobo Nagaya comprises studios spread across a small cluster of nagaya houses – traditional abodes that artists would have once lived and worked in. Inside, showcases of the techniques used to make Wajima lacquerware. Observe the masters at work before joining in yourself. You’ll engrave your own design onto chopsticks, scrape the lacquer, paint and decorate with gold leaf or gold powder. The result? A beautiful set of gold embellished chopsticks.

You’ve flexed your creative muscles, painted, shaped and decorated a number of one-of-a-kind objects that’ll take pride of place in your home, but what about the friends/ partners/ colleagues (delete as appropriate) that you’d promised pressies too? Somehow, we don’t think a tacky fridge magnet is going to cut it. Step forward Ishikawa Local Products Center, an IRL Aladdin's cave overflowing with tableware, sweets and sake handmade by local artisans.