Idées Japon 2025: the Japanese Christmas market opens this weekend at the Bastille Design Center in Paris

Every year-end, Paris is alive with a market like no other. The Salon Idées Japon brings together creators, flavors and traditions in the heart of the capital, in a convivial atmosphere. You’ll find something different to offer, while supporting authentic know-how.

Salon Idées Japon at the Bastille Design Center

The event takes place at the Bastille Design Center, a heritage site located at 74 boulevard Richard Lenoir (Paris 11th). The event returns at the end of November, the ideal time to prepare for the festive season with flair. The public can move around several levels, between artisan stands, workshops and tastings. Access is easy, as the site is close to the Bastille and Bréguet-Sabin metro stations.

The spirit here is clear: to showcase handpicked designers, artists and tea houses. You’ll browse unique pieces, limited editions and revisited everyday products. What’s more, demonstrations punctuate the visit to explain gestures, materials and uses. The results are warm and welcoming, yet always precise about origin and manufacture.

Stalls range from ceramics to textiles, from wooden objects to washi stationery. Families appreciate the quiet spaces, as well as the short, child-friendly animations. As a result, everyone leaves with a story and a meaningful object. The Salon Idées Japon becomes a moment of sharing before the holidays.

“A Japanese Christmas market on a human scale, ideal for giving in a different way.”

Program, workshops and demonstrations at Idées Japon

Calligraphy, origami, furoshiki: these practices are carried out in close proximity to the artists. Participants learn simple gestures and leave with a creation. Ceramics and printmaking demonstrations also enable visitors to observe the key steps involved. The Salon Idées Japon values direct exchange: you ask questions, you understand, then you try.

Workshop times vary from day to day, and places fill up fast. It is therefore advisable to arrive early, as some slots fill up quickly. Fees, if any, are indicated on site by the organizers. This way, everyone can compose their own itinerary at Salon Idées Japon without stress.

• Address: Bastille Design Center, 74 bd Richard Lenoir, Paris 11e
• Period: late November (dates specified by the organizer)
• Access: Bastille or Bréguet-Sabin metro stations, buses and bicycles nearby
• On-site: craft stands, workshops, tastings and demonstrations
• Tip: come early on weekends, or aim for the opening day.

Brands and artisans not to be missed at Idées Japon

Kimono Rikiki – Kimonos (fashion, accessories). Fitting advice, tailored cuts and colorful obi add style, even to everyday wear. So everyone can find a piece just for them at Salon Idées Japon.

House of Kokeshi – Kokeshi (arts, crafts). These hand-painted wooden dolls from Tōhoku tell a regional story. Each model has its own unique face and silhouette.

Mizutama Bijoux – Jewelry (fine jewelry, traditional Japanese motifs). The asanoha and seigaiha lines create delicate, easy-to-wear pieces. In short, it’s a discreet gift, but loaded with symbolism.

Atelier LUM’design – Japanese handicrafts (fashion, art). Textiles, washi paper and sober hues compose sensitive pieces. The result is a softer interior without overload.

Flavours and beverages to savour at Idées Japon

Pâtisserie Mayu – Japanese pastries (food). Soft Dorayaki, matcha rolls and seasonal sweets are all about balance. Then, ingredients are clearly indicated for a serene choice.

Umami Soup – Japanese soup (food). Round miso broths, seasonal vegetables and varied toppings warm up the visit. At Salon Idées Japon, a savory break is also a treat for children.

Nihoncha Paris – Japanese teas (food). Sencha, gyokuro or hojicha: you taste, then learn the right infusion temperatures. As a result, the teapot can be used to its full potential at home.

Practical tips for enjoying the Japan Ideas Fair

Make sure you have a small budget for your favorite purchases, as well as a reusable bag. Also, a multiple means of payment can help, as not all stalls accept cards. The quietest times are often in the morning or at the end of the day. Nowadays, many designers take orders on the spot if they’re short on size.

Wewantsake – Authentic Sake (food). Guided tastings, junmai and ginjo styles, followed by simple pairing ideas for the festive table. This way, you leave with the right bottle, without making a mistake.

Ibaraki Prefecture – Japanese regional gastronomic specialties (food). Condiments, sweets and star products make for a cautious taste journey. On the other hand, some fermented flavors are surprising; taste before you offer.

And don’t forget to check the daily opening times, which may change according to the number of visitors. Strollers come and go, but it’s better to come early on weekends, as the aisles fill up. Preparing an itinerary of the stands will help you avoid unnecessary round-trips. Salon Idées Japon remains a simple, warm and precise event, designed for everyone.

• Japan Ideas Fair