Shake Your Soul

Local Hokkaido Clothing Brand Natural Bicycle
“Everyone was going to Tokyo, but I wanted to stay in Hokkaido to start a street and outdoor clothing brand.” – designer Akemi

Born and raised in Hokkaido, this is a real, local Hokkaido brand that started in 2003.

The brand name “Bicycle” does not mean “for bicyclists”, but rather it is a symbol that we should keep up with the world a little slower than driving and a little faster than walking. The brand has strong relationships with active artists and writers in Hokkaido, to promote this northern island of Japan.

Natural Bicycle designer Akemi (aka Kemmy) was inspired by the popular German fairy tale “The Town Musicians of Bremen.” Four different animals leave home feeling neglected as outcasts, and decide to form a band together. Kemmy combined different Hokkaido animals with her design of the “Ezo Band.” Ezo means Hokkaido in the indigenous Ainu language.

Recommended items are the “Shake Your Soul” sweater playing on the Japanese word for salmon which is “Shake,” and “Hokkaido” written in the shape of the fish. Another popular item is the “North” kanji which is “北” styled in a bold way to promote being “northern peoples.” We’re proud to be living in Hokkaido! Represent.

HOKKAIDO SHAKE Pigment dye Pull Parka

¥11,880

“NORTHERN PEOPLES”

NORTHERN BIG

¥7,700

Manbou & EZO BAND

¥6,600

www.naturalbicycle.com

www.brownfloor.jp

www.instagram.com/naturalbicycle011/