kukka design
For Brands Connecting Japan & the World
Designed for the World.
Bridging Japan and the World
Kukka is a Japanese design studio specializing in brand design for businesses that connect with Japan – from Japanese-inspired brands around the world to international companies entering the Japanese market.
Japanese-Inspired Brands Worldwide
JAPANESE TEA CAFES
SAKE BARS
RESTAURANTS
FOOD & LIFESTYLE BRANDS
AND MORE
International Brands in Japan
RETAIL DISPLAYS POP-UP STORES
PACKAGING
VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS
AND MORE
We believe great design goes beyond aesthetics.
It stems from a deep understanding of Japanese culture, values and sensibilities.
By combining tradition with a contemporary perspective, we create authentic, meaningful brands that resonate across cultures.
What is kukka?
Kukka means "flower" in Finnish.
Just as flowers bring beauty, warmth, and joy to our everyday lives, we hope our designs will do the same. Inspired by our love for Finland and its culture, we chose the name “Kukka” to reflect this simple wish.
Our home base is Hokkaido, a beautiful region in northern Japan. With its abundant nature, open landscapes, and relaxed pace of life, Hokkaido reminds us of the Nordic countries, particularly Finland and Sweden.
Rooted in Hokkaido and working across Japan, Kukka Design offers a wide range of creative services, including branding, graphic design, web design, retail display design, and floral design. We also welcome collaborations with international clients, bringing our Japanese perspective and thoughtful approach to design projects around the world.
Ska vi fika?
"Ska vi fika?" — Shall we have a coffee break?
kukka designのディスプレイ
THE ROLE OF WINDOW DISPLAY
問題解決型
「ディスプレイをしてほしい」その言葉の先にある、クライアント様の想い、隠れている課題をじっくりと探り、解決に導くご提案をします。
ドキドキとワクワクをプラス
視覚だけでなく、香りや手触りなど、見た瞬間、心が動くような、五感に訴えかけるディスプレイを目指します。
ブランドの世界観と商品の魅力を伝える
ブランドのコンセプトやメッセージを伝え、商品の魅力引き立てるディスプレイに。
入店のきっかけをつくる
通りを歩く方に「なんだろう？」「中に入ってみたい」という気持ちを起こさせ、店内へと導くような、目と心を惹きつけるディスプレイに。
OUR SERVICES
From Concept to Experience
Brand Identity & Strategy
Graphic, Packaging & Japanese Typography
Web & Digital Design
Retail Display & Brand Experiences
SELECTED WORK
Two Perspectives. One Creative Vision.
JAPANESE-INSPIRED DESIGN
Japanese Roots. Contemporary Expression.
HARUYA
Japanese noodle restaurant
TAKAKIYA
Wedding Company
hono
Coffee Stand Branding
AKATSUKI NO KURA
Japanese Sake Restaurant
Hello, I'm Eriko.
Eriko kitaueda
北上田 絵梨子
Founder & Designer, Kukka Design
Founder & Designer, Kukka Design
I was born and raised in Sapporo, Japan, and began studying design while attending Keio University in Tokyo. After graduating, I started my career at a display design company in Omotesando, Tokyo’s renowned fashion and design district, where I created visual displays and spatial experiences for major department stores and commercial spaces.
I later joined a branding agency, where I worked on corporate branding projects and expanded my expertise into graphic design, web design, and spatial design.
Since establishing my own design studio, I have worked across a wide range of creative disciplines, from brand identity, packaging, and website design to retail displays and experiential design. I have a particular passion for lifestyle-related industries, including food, interiors, flowers, beauty, and hospitality.
My experience includes display design projects for international brands such as Volvo, CLARINS, and L’OCCITANE, which deepened my understanding of how to bring a brand’s identity to life through physical spaces and customer experiences.
I also worked as a wedding planner for international guests at a global hotel group. This experience deepened my appreciation for different cultural perspectives and the importance of *omotenashi* — the Japanese spirit of thoughtful, heartfelt hospitality.
Through these experiences, I have developed a design philosophy that goes beyond simply creating something that looks Japanese. I believe in capturing the deeper essence of Japanese culture — its aesthetics, attention to detail, sensitivity, and spirit of hospitality — and translating these qualities into meaningful, contemporary brand experiences.
Now based in both Sapporo and Tokyo, I work with businesses around the world that seek to bring Japanese culture to life, as well as international brands looking to establish or strengthen their presence in Japan.
My approach is personal, thoughtful, and collaborative.
I believe that truly meaningful design begins with understanding the people behind a brand and the people it hopes to reach.
For me, the greatest joy of design is working closely with clients to create brands and experiences that not only look beautiful, but also tell a story, build connections, and leave a lasting impression.
Where Does Your Story Meet Japan?
A Japanese-inspired concept abroad. A global brand finding its place in Japan.
Where Does Your Story Meet Japan?
A Japanese-inspired concept abroad. A global brand finding its place in Japan.
Every meaningful project begins with understanding. Tell us what you’re imagining, what inspires you, and where you’d like to go. Even if your idea is still taking shape, we’d love to explore how thoughtful design can bring it to life.