Terms of service

These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of the website www.japonista.com (the “Site”) and any products or services offered by JAPONISTA™, including our curated online store, concierge sourcing services, logistics and warehousing solutions, and related offerings (collectively, the “Services”). By placing an order, submitting a concierge request, or otherwise using the Site, you agree to be bound by these Terms and by all related policies referenced here, including our Shipping & Delivery Policy, Returns & Refunds Policy, and Legal Notice.

1. About JAPONISTA™ & Our Curatorial Mission

Our website, www.japonista.com, is dedicated to curating one of the largest online collections of souvenir jackets and other high-end fashion collectibles found in Japan. We are driven by an ambitious dream: to document, archive, and celebrate as many designs as possible so that these cool-tural exports of Japan can be appreciated across generations.

Alongside our core passion for souvenir jackets, we also curate and offer selected pieces of Japanese vintage fashion, objects, and antiques that we believe are worth sharing with the world for their quality, beauty, and uniqueness.

Your purchases and support help us reinvest in the acquisition, documentation, and preservation of these pieces. Our long-term vision includes the creation of visual archives and coffee-table style publications featuring jackets, garments, and collectibles from Japan. By capturing and curating these items in digital form, we hope to inspire collectors, designers, and creatives worldwide.

2. Scope of Services

2.1 Online Store – Vintage, Preloved & Collectible Items

The Site offers a curated range of:

  • High-end jewelries / watches, high-brand fashion & streetwear items
  • Rare & museum quality embroidered souvenir jackets / sukajan / sutajan, Amekaji heritage items & iconic pieces
  • Vintage and preloved clothing and accessories / luxury fashion archives
  • Selected antiques, art, and collectible objects from Japan

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, these items are preloved, deadstock, or vintage and not “factory new.” All items are sold in the condition described and shown in our listings.

2.2 Concierge & Sourcing Services

In addition to our online store, JAPONISTA™ offers bespoke concierge and sourcing services for individual collectors, stylists, retailers, and B2B clients. These services may include:

  • Personal sourcing and hunting for specific jackets, garments, art, or antiques
  • Advisory support for building collections or stock for boutiques and brand projects
  • Facilitating purchases from third-party sellers, auctions, and markets within Japan

Concierge and sourcing services are typically subject to separate quotations, handling fees, deposits, and timelines, which will be communicated in writing for each project.

2.3 Logistics, Warehousing & Consolidation Services

For repeat clients, bulk buyers, and B2B partners, we may offer:

  • Temporary warehousing and storage of purchased items in Japan
  • Order consolidation to optimize shipping costs
  • Customized crating and packing for oversized, fragile, or heavy items
  • Coordination with brokers and cargo companies in Tokyo, Osaka, and other hubs

These solutions are case-by-case and may involve additional fees, minimum volumes, and specific conditions agreed in writing before work begins.

3. Customer Responsibilities & Pre-Purchase Communication

Because many of our pieces are unique, vintage, or one-of-a-kind, we strongly encourage—and expect—clients to ask all questions before making a purchase.

We do our best, within our capacity, to represent each item accurately through photos and descriptions. However, screen settings, subjective perception, and the inherent nature of preloved items may result in minor variations in color, texture, or feel.

Please ask all of your questions, clarify your doubts or qualms, and request additional information before committing to any purchase. All inquiries must be raised before placing an order—not after payment is made.

When you proceed with a purchase or confirm a concierge request, you acknowledge that you have reviewed the listing, asked any necessary questions, and accept the condition and limitations of the item or service as described.

4. Condition of Items – “Sold As Is, Where Is”

Unless otherwise specified, all items offered on the Site are:

  • Preloved, vintage, or deadstock
  • Not brand new or factory-fresh
  • Sold as the actual item shown in the images provided

We describe and photograph each piece to the best of our ability, highlighting major flaws or notable characteristics when observed. By purchasing any item, you accept that:

  • Minor signs of age, wear, or patina are normal for vintage and preloved goods.
  • Measurements and condition descriptions are approximate.
  • Items are sold “As Is, Where Is” based on the listing at the time of purchase.

5. Pricing, Taxes & Payment Terms

5.1 Prices & Currency

All prices on the Site are listed in the currency displayed at checkout (typically Japanese Yen (JPY) or another supported currency). Prices may be adjusted from time to time without prior notice, except for orders already confirmed.

5.2 Shipping Fees & Additional Costs

Additional costs that may apply and are usually the responsibility of the customer include:

  • Domestic or international shipping fees
  • Import duties, customs taxes, and local fees
  • Bank transfer fees or currency conversion charges

5.3 Payment Methods

We accept the payment methods displayed at checkout. For bespoke concierge, bulk, or B2B projects, we may also accept:

  • Bank wire transfer
  • International remittance services (subject to approval)
  • Other written arrangements

Installment or layaway plans may be offered for selected items and will be agreed in writing before commencement.

6. Orders, Acceptance & High-Value Transactions

When you place an order, you submit an offer to purchase the item(s) in your cart. The contract is formed when we:

  • Confirm your payment, and
  • Send an order confirmation email.

We may decline or cancel orders in cases such as suspected fraud, pricing errors, or item unavailability.

For high-value or sensitive items, we may request additional verification (such as ID checks or reconfirmation emails) to safeguard both client and company.

6A. Additional Terms for Purchases Over USD $10,000

6A.1 Payment Requirements for High-Value Orders

For transactions valued at USD $10,000 or higher, payment must be completed via bank wire transfer unless another method has been formally approved.

Bank wire transfers offer:

  • Superior security and traceability
  • Fraud reduction and anti-risk compliance
  • Clear provenance for both sides
  • Stable handling of large-value transactions

While Shopify may technically allow checkout using standard card gateways, we kindly ask clients intending to purchase items above this threshold to contact us prior to payment for appropriate invoicing, verification, and logistical preparation.

6A.2 Enhanced Handling Protocols

High-value acquisitions follow a reinforced internal process, including:

  • Item verification and documentation
  • Reinforced packaging and secure holding
  • Multi-stage quality checks prior to dispatch
  • Direct communication with the client during key milestones

6A.3 Shipping & Logistics for High-Value Goods

Depending on size, declared value, commodity type, or destination-country regulations, JAPONISTA™ may select the most secure and compliant method, which may include:

  • EMS, DHL, FedEx, or UPS courier networks
  • Premium cargo freight for oversized or high-risk shipments
  • Alternative routing based on customs or carrier rules
  • Identity or address verification for secure release

6A.4 Customs, Import Duties & Declaration Standards

Clients are responsible for duties, taxes, brokerage fees, and any storage fees due to customs delays.

We do not misdeclare values. However, we work collaboratively with clients to structure safe and compliant documentation within carrier and import regulations.

6A.5 Final Sale for High-Value Items

Due to rarity and collector status, all high-value purchases are considered final sale unless written exceptions are made in advance.

6A.6 Communication Expectations

For your safety and for proper risk analysis, we greatly appreciate clients notifying us ahead of time when planning to purchase items valued above USD $10,000. This allows us to prepare secure payment pathways and shipping strategies tailored to your location.

7. Shipping, Handling & Delivery

We ship worldwide using Japan Post EMS by default unless another method is arranged. Handling time is typically 7–12 business days. Delivery may take an additional 4–10 days depending on destination and customs inspection.

Risk of loss or damage transfers to you once the parcel is delivered to the carrier, subject to any insurance coverage arranged.

8. Customs, Import Duties & Declarations

You are responsible for understanding and complying with your country’s import laws, as well as paying any duties, VAT, or related taxes.

Declared-value adjustments requested by the client are undertaken at the client’s own risk and must comply with destination-country regulations.

9. Returns, Refunds & Cancellations

Because our pieces are unique, curated, and often one-of-a-kind, all sales are generally final. Exceptions apply only under the conditions outlined in our Returns & Refunds Policy or Shipping & Delivery Policy.

10. Concierge, Sourcing & Logistics Service Terms

10.1 Quotations, Fees & Deposits

Concierge and logistics services may involve handling fees, retainers, or deposits. Unless otherwise stated, these fees are non-refundable once work begins.

10.2 Third-Party Purchases

Many items are acquired from third-party sellers or auctions. While we conduct due diligence, outcomes cannot be guaranteed, and certain risks are inherent.

10.3 Warehousing & Consolidation

Storage conditions, timelines, and related fees will be mutually agreed. Items left unclaimed beyond agreed periods may be considered abandoned and handled accordingly.

11. Intellectual Property & Use of Content

All images, descriptions, branding, and written materials on the Site are the property of JAPONISTA™ unless otherwise credited. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

12. Prohibited Uses

You agree not to misuse the Site or engage in fraudulent, unlawful, or harmful activities.

13. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, JAPONISTA™ is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of the Site, delays, or third-party issues.

14. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless JAPONISTA™ from claims arising from misuse or violation of these Terms.

15. Governing Law & Jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by the laws of Japan. Disputes shall be handled in Japanese courts unless consumer protection laws require otherwise.

16. Changes to These Terms

We may update or revise these Terms at any time. Continued use of the Site constitutes agreement to the updated version.

17. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms or any of our policies, please contact us here.

We appreciate thoughtful, respectful communication and will do our best to support you throughout your journey with JAPONISTA™.