Omotesando. This Tokyo district, a sophisticated hub of cutting-edge boutiques and trendsetting style, has always been a source of inspiration for me. After a client meeting on a Tuesday evening, my feet carried me purposefully towards one specific destination: the IITTALA & MOOMIN ARABIA Omotesando store. Finland holds a special place in my heart ever since an unexpected one-day layover there in 2019 due to flight trouble on my way back from Web Summit. I’ve longed to return, though the opportunity hasn’t yet arisen. This made my anticipation for a taste of its atmosphere right here in Japan even greater.
Iittala has been a brand that intrigued me since that time. While you can find their products in department stores, the selection is often limited. I knew about their flagship store in Omotesando and had always intended to visit, but somehow, daily life kept getting in the way. “If I can go, I must go.” That thought propelled me forward today.
Unaware of the Closing Chapter: Stepping into a World of Nordic Design
Upon arriving at the shop, the first thing that caught my eye was the “MOOMIN ARABIA” signage. Indeed, this wasn’t just an Iittala store; it was a special place where one could also indulge in products from Arabia, another iconic Finnish brand, and immerse oneself in the charming world of Moomin.
The exterior itself was utterly delightful. Brimming with anticipation, I stepped inside, and it felt like entering a sanctuary of Finnish design.
Encounters with the Adorable Inhabitants of Moominvalley
The store stretched back, and the Moomin Arabia section unfolded first. The initial display showcased a collection of Japan-exclusive designs. Small plates and mini mugs featuring the beloved characters were a perfect fusion of Japan’s “kawaii” culture and Finnish warmth.
To the left, a variety of other Moomin goods awaited. It was here that a cap by Nordicbuddies completely stole my heart. Moomin is generally perceived as gentle and easygoing, but the Moomin embroidered on this cap was, surprisingly, angry! This contrast was irresistibly cute. The denim fabric had a wonderful texture, and the embroidery of Moomin’s back view and the brand logo were stylishly executed. Nordicbuddies, I learned, is a Finnish-Japanese joint venture that creates these cool Moomin products.
Further in, an entire wall was impressively lined with Moomin Arabia mugs – a thrilling sight for collectors and casual fans alike. A poster on a pillar caught my eye; it was a chronological display of Moomin mugs since 1990. A helpful staff member informed me that the production year is actually printed on the bottom of each mug. This was a valuable piece of information for any future vintage hunting in Finland!
Furthermore, 2025 marks the Moomin original stories’ 80th anniversary. A special section in the store celebrated this milestone, showcasing a diverse range of limited-edition 80th-anniversary goods, including mugs, figurines, and textiles. To be able to see and touch so many Moomin items at once was pure bliss for any fan.
The Elegance of Arabia and the Brilliance of Iittala
Beyond the Moomin Arabia area lay the Arabia collection. A staff member pointed out an item exclusive to the Omotesando store and their online shop: a vibrant yellow version of Arabia’s 24h Avec plate. This was a color variation of the iconic blue plate featured in the Japanese movie “Kamome Diner” (Seagull Diner), on which the character Sachie, played by Satomi Kobayashi, served those delicious-looking onigiri. The warm, inviting scene from the movie instantly came to mind, and I found myself drawn to its beautiful hue.
Finally, I reached my primary destination: the Iittala section. From one end of the shelves to the other, unique and sophisticated glassware shimmered with a quiet brilliance. I almost blurted out, “Can I just have everything here?” The “Ultima Thule” series was particularly captivating. There were limited-edition color sake glasses, released for an exhibition commemorating the 110th birth anniversary of Iittala’s legendary designer, Tapio Wirkkala. The special hue, said to be created from a chemical reaction between Finnish soil and glass, was deep and mesmerizing.
Iittala is also committed to using recycled glass, and some Ultima Thule glasses incorporate this sustainable material. “Each piece is unique, which makes them interesting,” a staff member explained, showing me a few side by side. Indeed, despite being the same design, the color tones and bubble patterns varied subtly, meaning no two were exactly alike. It was a testament to the warmth of craftsmanship and a sustainable philosophy. I realized then that the act of choosing “your own unique piece” is an important part of forming a deeper attachment.
The true advantage of a flagship store like this is the availability of larger items. The flower vases and sculptural glass art were breathtaking. A limited-edition vase, created using a wooden mold, particularly stood out, beautifully blending natural strength with delicate artistry, and radiating a special presence. “Someday, I’d love to own such a masterpiece.” Considering the difficulty of bringing such items back from Finland, encountering it here felt like a small miracle.
The Sudden Announcement: A Nordic Dream Nears Its End
As I was blissfully exploring the store, a staff member delivered some shocking news. “Actually… this IITTALA & MOOMIN ARABIA Omotesando store will be closing on July 27, 2025.”
Excuse me? Had I heard correctly? This wonderful place, overflowing with such beautiful products and captivating visitors, was going to disappear? There are very few places where one can see and touch such an extensive lineup. “If this store closes, where can I go…?” I asked, almost in disbelief. “A store of this scale won’t be available domestically anymore,” the staff member replied with an apologetic look. It felt like a punch to the gut. So, in the future, one would have to travel to Finland or rely on stores with limited selections or online shopping.
The news of the closure was deeply saddening, but at the same time, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having visited that day. And, due to the closing, they were running a promotion: customers spending over ¥13,200 (tax included) on Iittala products would receive an original glass coaster, and those spending over ¥5,500 (tax included, as mentioned by the staff) on Moomin Arabia products would receive a Moomin market bag. There was no question – I had to take something home as a memento of this encounter and as a token of my appreciation for this place.
Bringing Home the Final Sparkle: My Chosen Treasures
Shaken by the news but determined not to miss this precious opportunity, I began to carefully select my purchases. The staff, perhaps sensing my feelings, were incredibly kind and helpful. “Take your time to choose, as each recycled piece is unique,” one said gently, which helped calm my nerves a little.
And so, these are the items I chose:
From Iittala, I selected an eco-friendly recycled glass candle holder, a set of two Ultima Thule limited edition sake glasses commemorating Tapio Wirkkala’s 110th anniversary, and an Ultima Thule recycled glass tumbler. The two glass coasters in the front were the store-closing novelty items. From Arabia, I chose the Omotesando store & online exclusive yellow 24h Avec plate. And from Moomin Arabia, some Japan-exclusive tableware and a mini mug that can also be used as a Christmas tree ornament. Of course, I couldn’t forget the Nordicbuddies angry Moomin cap that I’d fallen in love with at first sight.
These items are more than just “things.” They are tangible memories of the excitement of that day, the tinge of sadness upon learning of the closure, and my enduring admiration for Finnish design. They will surely brighten my daily life.
Don’t Miss This Moment: Omotesando’s Final Nordic Tale
The IITTALA & MOOMIN ARABIA Omotesando store will close its doors on July 27, 2025. Time is running out. This might truly be the last chance to see, touch, and meticulously examine the full lineup of Iittala, Arabia, and Moomin Arabia products – items you often won’t find in department stores.
Larger pieces like flower vases, limited-edition items like the Ultima Thule collection, and recycled glass pieces where you can appreciate individual differences are especially worth seeing in person. Bringing such items back from Finland would involve considerable effort and expense. There are also many Japan-exclusives, Omotesando store-exclusives, and limited-quantity items, so if you’re interested, I highly recommend speaking with the staff to discover your own special find.
The warm and attentive customer service is another significant charm of this store. Their product knowledge and genuine love for the brands shine through. While the closure is regrettable, I’m grateful for such a wonderful experience at this place before it’s gone.
The story of Iittala and Moomin Arabia in Omotesando is drawing to a close. Before its final chapter ends, why not experience its last sparkle for yourself? I’m sure an unforgettable encounter awaits.
Official Websites:
Iittala Japan: https://www.iittala.jp/
Moomin Shop (Carrying Arabia): https://shop.moomin.co.jp/collections/arabia-1
Google Map : IITTALA & MOOMIN ARABIA Omotesando Store (Iittala Omotesando Store & Cafe)