STORY
For those who are interested in knowing more about NISHIGUCHI KUTSUSHITA.
SEASONAL COLOR STORIES
When we close our eyes, we can recall a specific scene from the past and along with its familiar ambience, a certain color can be associated with it, leaving a strong imprint in our memory.
What colors were inspired by your hometown or a place you visited?
A unique color linked to that special place unravels a story to tell. We prepared some seasonal color stories to share with you and wish to continue posting more going forward.
Come escape with us to various cities around the world and discover how each seasonal color made its way to NK.
BERLIN, GERMANY
With the wish to deliver our socks to the world and one backpack, I arrived in Berlin to observe the exhibits. I believed that Germany would be the starting point for expanding our products to EU countries.
July in Berlin has good weather and clean air. It was so comfortable that it made me want to share with the people of Berlin the muggy summers in Japan which was the extreme opposite.
On my way to the exhibit, I made my way through the streets of Berlin. The historic Berlin Wall is now a colorful art monument. I enjoyed the historical buildings combined with art during my walk. I see why they are known as the city of young artists.
After my stroll, I reach the exhibition. I was astounded by how open and large the space is. It was like an outdoor festival. I wondered how people would react if we displayed our socks here. Now I was dreaming big.
There were so many shops that caught my eye, and I was overwhelmed. I decided to go to an Aufguss sauna which is an original German ritual where water is thrown on hot sauna stones and then a sauna master waves a towel in the air to masterfully distribute the steam. It was infused with lavender oil providing complete mind and body relaxation.
Saunas help me to completely detox both mind and body. I always know what I want or ought to do when I complete a session. I had gone in to relax but came out recharged and full of energy.
Journeys always lead to positive turning points in life for me. This trip to Berlin provided me with new perspectives and I was ready and excited to gain more inspiration from the city.
PISTACHIO SOFA
The hotel room in Berlin was furnished with a striking pistachio colored sofa that somehow made me want to walk with a spring in my step.
TRAM YELLOW
The tram is your sidekick during travels in Berlin. I rode them everywhere. Their bright yellow adds even more color to the colorful city.
SAUNA STONE
The Aufguss sauna is an original German ritual where water is thrown on hot sauna stones and a towel is waved in the air to create the ultimate sauna experience.
AROMA LAVENDER
Löyly is the name for the evaporating hot steam that rises from aroma water thrown on hot stones. The lavender scent turns the sauna space into a deep forest.
BUILDING PINK
Hackesche Höfe is a courtyard complex protected as Berlin's cultural asset. With a combination of art galleries, theatres, cafes, and restaurants, there is always something to do there.
BERLIN BLUE
Germany developed Berlin blue in the 1700s. Japan used this color in ukiyoe (color print of everyday life in the Edo period). Is this why this color evokes nostalgia?
APPLE SODA
The summer drink in Germany is apple soda. I enjoyed many during my travels as its natural flavour was not too sweet and to my liking.
SKY BLUE
The summer Berlin sky is blue and pleasant. The sky has no boarders but it is a wonder how each country has their own uniqur color of sky.
APRICOT ORANGE
Germany is famous for their baked goods made with fresh apricots. The perfect balance of sweetness and acidity keeps me coming back for more.
PARK GREEN
In the summer, people of Berlin go to parks to rest under trees. I did just that and a cool breeze ran through my body. The wild rabbits and squirrels also seem to be enjoying the shade.
TOWER WHITE
The TV tower is a landmark in the city of Berlin. If you get lost, look for the TV tower. It is always standing tall to provide direction and ease your worries.
CLASSIC RED
Berlin used to have public scales for their subways. The retro scales resemble the Japanese mail post. I imagine weighing yourself in front of strangers must have been embarrassing for some.
BEER BLACK
At Alexanderplatz, I tried German black beer. It was a rich, dark color but surprisingly easy to drink. Served in the traditional ceramic beer mug, it was even more exceptional.
CHRISTMAS RED
Germany is famous for their Christmas Market. In Berlin the Gendarmenmarkt and surrounding areas host this grand event. Next time, I will vistit during the winter.
