FAQ

• Where is Kappa Maeda located in Tokyo?

  Kappa Maeda (かっぱ橋まえ田) is located at 1-10-10 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan 111-0036, in the famous Kappabashi district known as "Kitchen Town." This culinary shopping area is easily accessible from Asakusa Station and is renowned for its concentration of kitchenware shops.
• What are the operating hours for Kappa Maeda?

  Kappa Maeda is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. This consistent schedule makes it convenient for both local shoppers and tourists to visit this popular tableware destination in Tokyo's Kitchen Town district.
• How can I contact Kappa Maeda?

  You can contact Kappa Maeda by phone at 03-3845-2822 or visit their website at www.kappa-maeda.co.jp. For international visitors planning their kitchen supply shopping trip, having these contact details can help with pre-visit inquiries.
• What is the nearest train station to Kappa Maeda?

  The nearest transit point is Asakusa Station, making Kappa Maeda easily accessible via Tokyo's comprehensive public transportation network. The shop's location in the heart of Kappabashi kitchenware district makes it a convenient stop for culinary enthusiasts exploring the area.
• How long has Kappa Maeda been operating in Kappabashi?

  Kappa Maeda is a long-standing establishment in Tokyo's Kappabashi district. As one of the area's well-established tableware shops, it has built a reputation over many years for providing quality Japanese ceramics and kitchenware to both professionals and home cooks.
• Why is the Kappabashi district important for shops like Kappa Maeda?

  The Kappabashi district, also known as "Kitchen Town," has been Tokyo's premier kitchenware shopping destination for decades. This specialized commercial area creates the perfect environment for shops like Kappa Maeda to thrive, serving both restaurant professionals and culinary enthusiasts.
• What is the significance of the name "Kappa Maeda"?

  The name "Kappa Maeda" (かっぱ橋まえ田) reflects both the shop's location and heritage in the Kappabashi district. The "Kappa" portion references the district name, while "Maeda" is likely the founding family name, creating a strong identity tied to this culinary shopping area.
• What types of tableware does Kappa Maeda specialize in?

  Kappa Maeda specializes in a wide variety of authentic Japanese tableware, including ceramics, plates, rice bowls, soup bowls, teapots, and glassware. Their extensive collection features both traditional and contemporary designs to suit various aesthetic preferences.
• Which Japanese ceramic styles can be found at Kappa Maeda?

  The shop is particularly known for its selection of Arita-yaki and Mino-yaki ceramics, two renowned Japanese pottery traditions. These distinctive ceramic styles showcase Japan's rich craftsmanship heritage, offering shoppers access to both everyday and special occasion tableware.
• Does Kappa Maeda sell kitchen knives?

  Yes, Kappa Maeda carries a unique selection of kitchen knives from respected Japanese makers including Takefu (Kurosaki, Saji), Masamoto, Suisin, and Misono. While not as extensive as specialized knife shops, their curated collection sometimes includes hard-to-find pieces.
• What other kitchen items can I purchase at Kappa Maeda?

  Beyond ceramics and knives, Kappa Maeda offers diverse kitchenware essentials including finely crafted plates, tea cups, pots, bottles, and decorative chopstick rests featuring playful designs like sausages, buttons, and Mount Fuji representations.
• Are the products at Kappa Maeda affordable?

  The products at Kappa Maeda are generally considered reasonably priced, offering excellent value for authentic Japanese tableware. The shop has built its reputation on providing quality ceramics and kitchen items without the premium pricing often found at more tourist-oriented establishments.
• What is the atmosphere like inside Kappa Maeda?

  Kappa Maeda offers a charming, authentic shopping environment with shelves packed with merchandise and relatively narrow aisles. The store's traditional retail layout creates a treasure-hunting experience where shoppers can discover unique items throughout the space.
• Do the staff at Kappa Maeda speak English?

  The staff typically have limited English proficiency and tend to remain behind the counter unless assistance is requested. However, the straightforward shopping process makes browsing and purchasing manageable even with minimal verbal communication.
• Is Kappa Maeda crowded with tourists?

  While Kappa Maeda attracts both international visitors and locals, it maintains an authentic shopping atmosphere rather than feeling like a tourist trap. The store's focus on practical, quality merchandise appeals to serious shoppers looking for genuine Japanese kitchenware.
• Can I browse freely at Kappa Maeda?

  Yes, Kappa Maeda encourages self-guided browsing throughout their merchandise displays. Shoppers should be mindful of the store's compact layout and take care when navigating the narrower aisles, especially when examining delicate ceramic pieces.
• What payment methods does Kappa Maeda accept?

  Kappa Maeda accepts major credit cards in addition to cash payments, making transactions convenient for international visitors. This payment flexibility is particularly helpful for larger purchases of tableware sets or higher-end kitchen knives.
• Does Kappa Maeda offer shipping services?

  While specific policies may vary, Kappa Maeda can typically arrange domestic and international shipping options for substantial purchases. Customers should inquire about current shipping rates and packaging methods, especially for fragile ceramic items.
• What are the best times to visit Kappa Maeda to avoid crowds?

  For a more relaxed shopping experience, consider visiting Kappa Maeda on weekday mornings shortly after opening at 10:00 AM. This timing typically offers a quieter browsing environment before the midday crowds arrive in the popular Kappabashi district.
• Is Kappa Maeda accessible for visitors with mobility concerns?

  Due to the shop's traditional layout with narrow aisles and densely packed shelves, navigation may be challenging for visitors with mobility devices. The store's compact configuration reflects its focus on maximizing merchandise display rather than spacious walkways.
• Why is Kappa Maeda described as a "tableware paradise"?

  Kappa Maeda earns its reputation as a "tableware paradise" through its extraordinary selection of Japanese ceramics and dining accessories. The shop's comprehensive inventory showcases both everyday tableware and special occasion pieces representing various Japanese pottery traditions.
• What makes Kappa Maeda's chopstick rests special?

  Kappa Maeda offers uniquely designed chopstick rests (hashioki) featuring playful shapes like sausages, buttons, and Mount Fuji. These functional art pieces add character to table settings and have become popular souvenirs representing Japanese dining culture.
• How does Kappa Maeda compare to other shops in Kappabashi?

  Kappa Maeda is considered a "jack of all trades" establishment within Kappabashi, offering a broader merchandise range than highly specialized shops. This diverse inventory makes it an efficient one-stop destination for various kitchen and dining needs.
• Why do professional chefs shop at Kappa Maeda?

  Professional chefs value Kappa Maeda for its authentic restaurant-grade tableware at reasonable prices. The shop's selection caters to presentation-conscious culinary professionals seeking distinctive vessels that enhance their food's visual appeal and dining experience.
• What makes Kappa Maeda's knife selection unique?

  Though smaller than dedicated knife shops, Kappa Maeda's knife collection is noted for including unique or uncommon Japanese knife models that might not be available elsewhere. This curated selection sometimes features special pieces from respected craftsmen alongside their more extensive tableware inventory.