EPT × Chao Bamboo. Respect, carried forward.

During our time in Japan for our 1st Tokyo Pop-Up, we wanted to create something that felt personal—something rooted in place, people, and culture rather than trends. That’s how this project with Chao Bamboo, the long-standing Asian restaurant in Harajuku, came together.

Chao Bamboo has been feeding generations of creatives, designers, and culture-makers for decades. It’s more than a restaurant—it’s part of Harajuku’s everyday rhythm. Spending time there, we felt a natural connection to its history and spirit, and wanted to express our respect in the way we know best: through products.

Working with Poggy in Japan

The project was led by our Japan Creative Director, Poggy, who helped shape the collaboration from the inside out. Together, we created a small capsule collection consisting of a T-shirt, a cap, and a commemorative pair of shoes—each one designed as a quiet tribute rather than a loud statement.

For the visuals, we worked with Shinsuke Nakata, Creative Director of Unlikely, and Yuka, a freelance PR and model. The shoot took place at Chao San Bamboo, Chao Bamboo’s third location. It felt important to keep everything close to its source—to let the space, the people, and the atmosphere speak for themselves.

The Products

The EPT × Chao Bamboo T-shirt and cap are everyday pieces—made to be worn casually, but carrying the memory of a place that represents Harajuku’s cultural crossroads. The commemorative shoes were created as a non-commercial item, shared only with friends and collaborators who are part of this story.

This project isn’t about scale or selling more. It’s about acknowledging the places that quietly support culture and community over time. Chao Bamboo is one of those places, and we’re grateful to be able to leave a small mark there.

Harajuku continues to inspire us—not just for its style, but for its openness and international energy. We’ll keep exploring Japan through these kinds of moments, connections, and shared stories.

EPT x Chao Bamboo film: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPf0eikicY4/