The Berlin Fashion X International project, initiated by Fashion Council Germany and supported by the Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises, returned to Tokyo, Japan, from March 15th to 20th, 2026, for its second delegation trip. Building on its previous engagement, the programme aimed to further connect twelve Berlin-based fashion and accessory brands with the Japanese market through workshops, networking formats, and curated store visits, while fostering long-term and sustainable business relationships.

The twelve participants Balletshofer, Clara Colette Miramon, Kasia Kucharska, Malaikaraiss, Milk of Lime, Natalie Grassi, Natascha von Hirschhausen, Richert Beil, Sia Arnika, Société Angelique, Unvain and William Fan experienced a dynamic programme of industry exchanges and retail explorations, enabling them to gain deeper insights into the Japanese fashion landscape and establish valuable new connections with local stakeholders.

A key highlight of the delegation was the Berlin Showroom in Omotesando, organized in collaboration with North Liberty Inc., where participating brands presented their collections to buyers, press, stylists, and industry professionals. The showroom served as a central platform for dialogue, business development, and cross-cultural exchange, strengthening the visibility of the brands within the Japanese market.

The programme featured a range of expert-led sessions, including cultural briefings on the Japanese fashion industry by Ashley Ogawa Clarke and Philippe Terrien, as well as a media workshop hosted by WWD Japan, offering insights into communication strategies and the local press landscape. These formats provided participants with a deeper understanding of market dynamics and positioning strategies.

Another important focus was placed on retail and industry visits, allowing brands to engage directly with key players in Tokyo’s fashion scene. Visits included Isetan Shinjuku, Parco Shibuya, Takashimaya Shinjuku, as well as meetings with companies such as Japan Blue Co. Ltd and Wanderlust Distribution JP. Additional exchanges with local designers and brands, including a visit to the John Lawrence Sullivan flagship store, offered further perspectives on the Japanese market, particularly regarding craftsmanship, retail concepts, and consumer behaviour.

A special moment of the programme was the reception hosted by the German Embassy in Tokyo, bringing together representatives from fashion, business, and cultural institutions. The evening highlighted the importance of creative exchange between Berlin and Tokyo and further strengthened ties between both fashion ecosystems.

The delegation trip reinforced the international visibility of the participating brands and provided valuable insights into the Japanese market through direct engagement with retailers, media representatives, and industry experts. These exchanges created a strong foundation for future collaborations, strategic partnerships, and market opportunities in Asia.