You open your Instagram and see every second person travelling to Japan. Perhaps it’s the country’s vibrant energy, playful charm, and everything Kawaii that attracts people from around the world. If you are planning a trip to Japan, know it is going to hit home. Starbucks Japan has launched the Discovery Series mug collection that celebrates local traditions, landmarks, and native areas with a wide range of souvenirs playfully depicting the country’s charisma through regional motifs.
Starbucks is known for connecting with communities via coffee. Now, the coffee giant is making sure that people carry the taste and a bit of Japan with them through locally inspired mugs, magnets, tote bags, and water bottles. According to Starbucks Japan, the designs are inspired by archetypal Japanese landscapes and culture, designed for travelers seeking a traditionally rooted experience.
For the collection to happen, Starbucks employees from each region provided insight into local landmarks, activities, and traditions representing their area best, as Sora News 24 reports. Each design is exclusive and aims to introduce a different side of the country, a heartbeat of its own, and every street echoes with life and rhythm. So, before you pack your bags, let’s explore some of the most beautiful pieces from the Discovery Series mug collection.
Japanese Design Mug
The mug features various Japanese motifs such as the famous Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms, sushi, and sumo wrestlers. The inside of the cup is accented with red, a color synonymous with Japan. The cup is for anyone who can’t choose a single area and wants to express their love for the entire country.
Osaka Design Mug
The Osaka design of the Discovery Series has themed motifs, including “Manzai” (a traditional comedy style in Japanese culture with two performers; one funny and one straight). The cup also refers to “Ame-chan,” a culture of offering sweets as a friendly gesture. Other motifs include mixed juice, takoyaki, and kushikatsu. The color inside is orange, inspired by a refreshing color of Osaka. You can catch a glimpse of a Starbucks paper cup subtly depicted.
Okinawa Design Mug
Okinawa design mug in the Discover Series proudly represents various Okinawa motifs, such as Shisa lions, hibiscus flowers, and Okinawa soba noodles. The inside of the mug is cobalt blue, making every drink its own experience.
Yokohama Mug Design
It features plenty of Yokohama-esque motifs to make your tea time delightful, including Yokohama harbor scenery, shumai dumplings, and red pandas. The inside of the cup is light blue, inspired by the effervescent energy of Yokohama.
FUKUOKA Mug Design
Fukuoka mug design celebrates the region’s energetic cheering culture by referencing the passionate group chants often heard at local festivals and sporting events.
There are a total of 19 regional mugs. Each mug is crafted from ceramic, delivering a 14-ounce capacity and a slice of the regions they represent. The collection also has water bottles, pin badges, notebooks, and more to feel closer to the country.
The entire Discovery Series collection is perfect for gifting to brighten the everyday lives of loved ones, or as collectibles for oneself. The series is available at participating Starbucks stores, starting July 22.
