From Classic to Contemporary: Premium Japanese Footwear in Tokyo
- +26 26
-
-
Are you searching for high-quality, stylish footwear? Tokyo is home to numerous renowned global brands, attracting many visitors looking for Japanese design and Made-in-Japan products.
Among these, whoop-de-doo stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design. With stores in the bustling hubs of Shinjuku and Yurakucho, whoop-de-doo offers premium Japanese footwear that perfectly blends tradition and modernity.
In this article, we will introduce you to the unique appeal of whoop-de-doo and why it should be on your must-visit list.
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
What is whoop-de-doo
whoop-de-doo is a dynamic Japanese shoe brand founded in 1985 by Kato Fujiitsu, a passionate shoemaker from Tokyo. Immersed in the world of footwear from a young age, Kato was inspired to create stylish shoes for men, a niche he felt was lacking.
whoop-de-doo launched with a commitment to innovative design and quality craftsmanship, using unique materials and bold patterns. By 1987, the company was formally established and quickly gained popularity.
The brand offers a wide range of footwear, including dress and business shoes, casual shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, and golf shoes.
Starting humbly by sharing office space in Asakusa, it grew rapidly, opening flagship stores in Harajuku, Fukuoka, and Osaka, each showcasing their diverse collection to cater to every taste and occasion.
Check out more about the 2212 Asakusa store in the following article!
whoop-de-doo’s concept is driven by relentless innovation and originality. It creates bold, stimulating designs and incredibly comfortable shoes. Kato’s mantra, “No concept is the concept,” reflects a commitment to constant reinvention and exploration. The company produces over 120 unique designs annually and embraces new materials and ideas.
Since 2020, the brand has focused on comfort with “Comfy Shaborn,” launched genderless sizes, and embraced sustainability with recycled materials, staying attuned to global trends.
Premium Footwear Japan Shoemaker
As I previously mentioned, whoop-de-doo is a renowned Japanese shoemaker celebrated for its exceptional quality and innovative designs.
Their shoes, made with top-grade Japanese materials such as Tochigi leather, reflect the finest craftsmanship. Despite using premium techniques like the McKay method, whoop-de-doo offers shoes at a relatively affordable price range of 20,000 to 30,000 yen, making them an excellent value compared to European standards.
Here are a few examples of the top-quality products you can find at whoop-de-doo stores.
Business shoes: 22794006 (Semi-square/straight-tip shoes)
¥59,950 (tax included)
The 22794006 are semi-square, straight-tip shoes, available in black calf leather from Annonay and burgundy and chestnut museum calf leather from Ilcia.
Known for their sophisticated and mature Classico Italian design, these shoes feature a slender, low instep and an Italian-style silhouette that fits Japanese feet well. The museum calf leather, famous for its marbled pattern created by skilled artisans, adds to its elegance.
Luxurious details include a beveled waist, fiddle back, and hidden channel sole, enhancing durability and refined appearance. Each pair is handcrafted, making them uniquely beautiful.
<<Check out more about 22794006>>
Casual shoes: 23210515 (Balloon Toe Derby Shoes), 105684 (Balloon toe shoes)
¥27,500 (tax included)
The whoop-de-doo ODECO Shoes feature two standout models: Shoes 23210515 and 105684. Both models are known for their voluminous balloon-toe design, which is made from high-quality, oil-rich cowhide and offers thick yet comfortable wear.
Shoes No. 23210515 showcases a chic, modern look with a black welt and six eyelets for a refined appearance. In contrast, Shoes No. 105684 has a more casual, work-boot feel with a natural-colored welt and four eyelets. The outsole of the newer model is slightly thinner, providing versatility for pairing with various styles, while the older model has a more rugged tank sole pattern.
Both designs are perfect for adding a stylish touch to your wardrobe.
<<Check out more about 23210515>>
<<Check out more about 105684>>
Boots: 22210436 (Tank sole side gore boots)
¥31,900 (tax included)
The 22210436 boots are stylish tank sole side gore boots crafted from supple cowhide leather with a glossy, wax-treated finish.
These mid-cut boots, measuring 13cm in height, feature a round last and a sharply cut shaft, offering an elegant silhouette from the opening to the toes. The soft, lustrous leather enhances the luxurious feel, while the unique material may display some natural scratches and unevenness, adding to its character.
Perfect for those seeking a blend of sophistication and durability in their footwear.
<<Check out more about 22210436>>
whoop-de-doo Shinjuku Maruimen Store
From here, let me introduce two of the leading whoop-de-doo stores in Tokyo. Tax-free services are available at both Shinjuku and Yurakucho stores. So, be sure to bring and present your passport.
The whoop-de-doo Shinjuku Maruimen Store (新宿マルイメン店) is located in one of Tokyo’s most vibrant areas, Shinjuku, known for its bustling streets, skyscrapers, and diverse attractions. This area is perfect for shopping enthusiasts seeking the latest Japanese fashion and craftsmanship, as well as unique souvenirs.
The store is situated in a men’s specialty shopping building (Maruimen), offering a wide range of footwear including dress shoes, casual shoes, sandals, and boots. Visitors can explore and try on various styles all in one spacious floor.
With seasonal collections constantly arriving, you’re sure to find exclusive items that are only available here.
 Access |
3 minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro) E2 Exit |
|---|---|
 Address |
Shinjuku Maruimen 3F, 5-16-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo |
 Business Hours |
11:00~20:00 |
whoop-de-doo Yurakucho Marui Store
Located in the heart of Tokyo, the whoop-de-doo Yurakucho Marui Store (whoop-de-doo 有楽町マルイ店) is easily accessible and based in a prestigious shopping area known for its blend of traditional department stores and the latest brands. Yurakucho Marui, a large commercial facility, hosts the store on its 6th-floor men’s section, featuring stylish and high-quality brands.
whoop-de-doo stands out with its unique, high-quality shoes at accessible prices. The elegant store offers a relaxed shopping experience where you can find your perfect pair, from long-time bestsellers to season-exclusive designs, all crafted in Japan.
Knowledgeable staff provide excellent service, ensuring a pleasant visit.
| Access |
3 minute walk from Yurakucho Station (JR Lines) |
|---|---|
| Address |
Yurakucho Marui 6F, 2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo |
| Business Hours |
11:00~20:00 |
*Note: If you go to any of these two shops after reading this article and let the staff know you are visiting after reading this article, you’ll get a free sticker like the one below.
Other whoop-de-doo Stores
Five whoop-de-doo directly managed stores are located in Tokyo and Kanagawa. Here are the remaining three. If you happen to be near one of these stores, take this chance to visit them.
-2212 Asakusa store-
| Access |
Right next to "A4 Exit" of Asakusa Station (Asakusa Line) |
|---|---|
| Address |
2-19-6 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
| Business Hours |
10:00~19:00 |
 Official Website |
https://2212shoes.com/ |
Check out more about the 2212 Asakusa store in the following article!
-whoop-de-doo Kitasenju Marui Store-
| Access |
4 minute walk from Kitasenju Station (JR Lines) |
|---|---|
| Address |
Kitasenju Marui 7F, 3-92 Senju, Adachi-ku, Tokyo |
| Business Hours |
10:00~20:00 |
-whoop-de-doo Marui Family Mizonokuchi Store-
| Access |
6 minute walk from Mizonokuchi Station (JR Lines, Tokyu Lines) |
|---|---|
| Address |
Marui Family Mizoguchi 7F, 1-4-1 Mizonokuchi, Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa |
| Business Hours |
10:30~20:00 |
▽Subscribe to our free news magazine!▽
If you want more information about fashion in Tokyo, check out the following articles!
▽Related Articles▽
▼Editor’s Picks▼
Written by
Born and raised in Costa Rica, I started living in Tokyo from college. I love traveling within Japan & around the world. Since I wasn’t born in Japan, I know the cultural impact that you can get when visiting Japan for the first time and what you might be worried about before your trip. And I’ve lived long enough to somewhat understand the nuances of the Japanese culture that make this country such an attractive place to visit. Hopefully I can provide to you both the information you’re looking for and the information you didn’t know you needed to know.
- +26 26
-
-