12 Japanese Brands You Should Know

Japan has long been a source of inspiration for craftsmanship, discipline, and quiet innovation—and nowhere is that more evident than in its carry game. In a world obsessed with fast trends and throwaway culture, Japanese makers play the long game.

They prioritize precision, heritage, and considered design. The result? Products that whisper quality rather than scream for attention. From minimalist carry solutions rooted in traditional techniques, to streetwear labels that challenge global fashion norms, Japan’s carry ecosystem is both rich in history and relentlessly forward-thinking.

Some names you may already know. Others operate like hidden temples of design, tucked away from the mainstream, quietly building cult followings. But all of them have one thing in common: an obsessive attention to detail and a deep respect for purpose. Here, we dive into the Japanese brands you should know—each one a masterclass in what happens when function, form, and philosophy collide.

PORTER by Yoshida & Co.

Born in 1962 under the watchful eye of Yoshida & Co. (a Japanese icon since 1935), PORTER has long been a benchmark for carry craftsmanship. Revered at home and respected abroad, they’re known for dialed-in design across business, EDC, and travel. And when it comes to collaborations, PORTER keeps good company — think Comme des Garçons, Descente ALLTERRAIN, and Shawn Stussy’s S/Double.

PORTER’s Tanker line has always been a fan favorite. But now, it’s entering a new chapter — one defined by sustainable material innovation and sharper detailing. The refreshed ALL NEW TANKER range leans into its flight-jacket roots, but swaps traditional synthetics for a custom bio-nylon derived from corn and castor beans. Still tough. Still triple-layered. But now with an environmental focus too. New features a raised zipper pull, upgraded hardware with multiple layers of chip-resistant paint, and reworked snap hooks for smoother use. While inside there are larger pockets and a removable, see-through organizer for some extra versatility. Standouts like the Tanker Daypack, Helmet Bag, and Briefcase carry the legacy forward — purpose-built for work, travel, and everywhere in between.

master-piece

Since 1994, master-piece (MSPC) has been carving its own lane in the carry world — blending technical performance with bold, unexpected style. It’s a fusion of craftsmanship and creativity that few brands pull off this well. Anchored by their BASE OSAKA factory, opened in 2008, MSPC proudly waves the flag for Japanese manufacturing excellence.

Their lineup runs deep — from backpacks to slings to smart commuters — but the Potential series is one of their most recognisable lines. Pieces like the Potential-EX 2WAY No.01752-EC shift effortlessly between backpack and briefcase mode, while the No.01743-v3 sling and Messenger Bag offer versatility with MSPC’s signature edge. Function-first, style-always.

hobo

Blending 19th-century American influences with refined Japanese craftsmanship, hobo brings an East-meets-West energy to everyday carry. Since 2004, they’ve built a name on low-key, high-function design — spanning backpacks, totes, wallets, and messengers with a focus on urban utility.

Their material palette mixes leather, canvas, ripstop, and nylon oxford — all wrapped in a clean, minimalist silhouette. The Azuma Shoulder Bag M, rooted in traditional Japanese wrapping cloths, carries full size documents with ease and keeps essentials close at hand. Prefer a backpack? The Nylon Tussah packs quick-access pockets and a 13″ tech sleeve, made for the modern mover.

visvim

Few brands command the respect that visvim does. Since 2001, Hiroki Nakamura’s label has built a global cult following — merging Americana, artisanal craftsmanship, and elevated streetwear. Born from footwear roots, the brand has grown into a full lifestyle offering, including quietly coveted carry.

Fashion-forward but built to last, visvim’s bags balance utility and refined detailing. The 20L Cordura Backpack is a standout — a silhouette steeped in street cred, with colorways and function dialed for city life and beyond. Pricey? Yes. But you’re buying into more than just a bag — you’re carrying a story.

HERZ

Since 1973, HERZ has been quietly mastering the art of leather carry. Their pieces are clean, functional, and built with care — the kind that lasts decades, not just seasons. Every stitch speaks to timeless design and everyday utility.Highlights include the Cartella Mini 3-Way, a versatile unisex piece that shifts between backpack, shoulder bag, and hand-carry with ease.

Need more room? The 2-Way Square Backpack blends briefcase form with backpack function, offering quick-access pockets, smart loops, and sharp style for work or short escapes.

FREDRIK PACKERS

FREDRIK PACKERS builds bags for the rhythm of daily life — whether you’re on two wheels, on foot, or somewhere in between. With silhouettes nodding to vintage outdoor gear, their designs blend charm, function, and all-day comfort.

From backpacks to totes to kid-friendly kits, each piece is handcrafted for ease and adaptability. The 3-Way Storage Box is a standout — a roomy hauler with smart organization and flexible carry modes (backpack, shoulder, or hand). Perfect for travel or gear-heavy days around town.

Postalco

Born in Brooklyn, refined in Tokyo — Postalco has spent over two decades crafting clean, functional carry rooted in traditional Japanese techniques. Their lineup—backpacks, pouches, wallets, and more—leans into timeless utility, with sustainable materials and quietly precise detailing.

The Bridge Bag series takes cues from bridge engineering to evenly distribute load without bulk. The Three Pack BW refines soft-bag carry with a unique strap system that hugs the back, reducing sag and maximizing comfort. With smart compartments and a minimalist silhouette, it’s built to move effortlessly from weekdays to weekends.

BEAMS

Since 1976, BEAMS has been a creative force across fashion, furniture, and beyond — shaping lifestyle through design. Known for bold collaborations, they’ve teamed up with the likes of Arc’teryx, Mission Workshop, and Yoshida & Co., blending Japanese style with global function.

Their XS BAGGAGE Body Bag delivers standout style with smart storage and a unique silhouette. The Kataoka Shoten tote riffs on student carry with a minimal, adaptable design, while the BEAMS Plus Flight Day Pack brings hand-or-backpack flexibility, with quick-access pockets and room for tech. Designed for movement — from city streets to studio days.

F/CE.

Launched in 2010, F/CE. fuses sleek aesthetics with gear built for modern city life. The 950 TRAVEL BP is dialed for short hauls or daily missions, crafted from rugged 915D Cordura and inspired by vintage alpine packs. Multiple pockets and lash points keep essentials sharp and sorted.

Prefer a tote? The TEXTURED TWILL 2-WAY offers adjustable volume with drawcord detailing, plus fast-access pockets — blending form, function, and effortless carry versatility.

MAKAVELIC

Tokyo’s MAKAVELIC blends streetwear, sports, and utility for carry that works from work to weekend. Their Sierra line uses glossy N/ROBIC nylon and smart designs built for daily grind and travel.

The BIND UP 3 BACKPACK offers quick-access pockets, attachment straps, and rear storage for a 13″ device. For versatile carry, the BUDDIES BBC 3WAY BAG M shifts between backpack, shoulder, and hand modes.

Smaller tech needs? The BUDDIES MULTIFUNCTIONAL PC CASE fits a 13″ laptop with handy external pockets. While the Grace Multi Pocket Tote holds a 15″ device and A4 docs, with organized exterior storage for essentials.

AS2OV

Launched in 2013 by the team behind master-piece, AS2OV blends quality materials with sleek, practical design. Their lineup spans backpacks, duffels, messengers, totes, and even golf bags—each built for everyday life and travel. The Cordura Dobby 305D Round Zip Backpack nails the balance of durable build, smart pockets, wide access, and laptop storage—ideal for short trips or heavier loads.

For adaptable carry, the EPIC series offers modular options—a main pack, day bag, sacoche, and side pouch—that connect and evolve with your needs.

BRIEFING

Since 1998, Tokyo-based BRIEFING has fused military durability with urban function across EDC, travel, and golf bags. Known for signature red stitching, their USA- and Japan-made collections deliver “functional beauty” built to endure and adapt. Collaborations with brands like White Mountaineering add fresh energy to their lineup.

The USA-made NEO TRINITY LINER excels with three carry modes—backpack, shoulder, briefcase—and a clamshell main compartment for easy packing. Padded laptop storage and three external pockets keep essentials handy for commutes or flights.

The FUSION SQ TOTE HD skips the red stitching but keeps BRIEFING’s clean, robust vibe. Made in Japan, it features a zippered main compartment with tech-friendly organization and quick-access external pockets—perfect for work, travel, or downtime.