SMerge is an online publication and agency that connects you to the innovative Kyoto culture. We are dedicated to delivering content focused on fashion, culture, and the beauty of Kyoto.  

Living in a city deeply rooted in spirituality, tradition, and culture, we believe true beauty emerges when all things are connected in harmony. This concept is also highly valued in the world of sado (tea ceremony), an art that has greatly influenced Japan’s approach to beauty and design.  Using this same mindful approach towards our fashion and art projects, we carefully consider the background that inspired them and explore how our subjects connect with their environment.  As both an online publication and agency, we are dedicated to bringing out the true essence and beauty of each project we take on. 

STORIES: SMerge curates and shares stories focused on fashion from Kyoto and beyond. Fashion is not just about what we wear; it speaks to the wider culture, design, lifestyle, society, and philosophy of who created it.  We are dedicated to sharing stories which will give our audience a deeper understanding of the creative and ever-evolving Kyoto culture.

FIXING/CONSULTATION: SMerge offers creative services to individuals, brands and businesses who are looking to collaborate with the Kyoto creative community. Our services include: Consultation, Fixing, Product Collaborations, Content Creation, Brand Partnerships, and more.

COLLABORATION PIECES: SMerge will work with local creatives and artists to produce stunning collaborative pieces. Directed and produced by SMerge, these limited pieces are a fusion of traditional and modern creativity found only in Kyoto. Coming soon………

SARA AIKO is a creative director and founder of Curated Kyoto, an agency that curates Kyoto for in-person experiences and media. Her client list includes, CHANEL, Park Hyatt Kyoto, Vogue Hong Kong, Estée Lauder and more  ……

MASAKAZU KURODA has worked in fashion for more than twenty years. Over ten years ago, he opened the Kyoto location of The Contemporary Fix , a fashion retail shop focusing on introducing JAPAN style contemporary luxury streetwear