Japan’s new prime minister puts local leather bag in the spotlight
Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has drawn global attention to a domestic leather brand after being photographed carrying a black leather tote made by long-established Tokyo manufacturer Hamano Inc.
The bag, known as the Grace Delight Tote, is priced at around ¥136,000 (€840) and is made from Japanese leather and finished with gold-coloured hardware.
Hamano, which has been producing leather goods for more than 140 years and has supplied the Japanese imperial family, describes the design as combining elegance and practicality.
Following Ms Takaichi’s public appearances with the bag, orders have surged, with the company now facing extended delivery times into early 2026. The sudden interest has been widely covered in domestic and international media, with some commentators noting that the prime minister’s preference for a locally made accessory aligns with her reputation for conservative values and support for Japanese craftsmanship.
Analysts say the episode highlights the influence of political figures in shaping consumer demand and offers a timely example of how local leather manufacturing can gain renewed visibility through high-profile exposure.
image: Japan Daily
