ABOUT US

CityZen is a brand born from love - for Japan's unique culture, for authentic self-expression, and for meaningful fashion.

We’re Leni and Yoji - a Bulgarian-Japanese family currently living in Japan after many years in Europe. The seed for CityZen was planted back in 2018, during our first trip to Japan together and Leni’s first visit to Kyoto. It was there that the magic of Japanese culture, tradition, and textile artistry came alive for us - and where the first vintage haori found its new home in our wardrobe.

What began with a single garment and an idea to share this underrated treasure has grown into a slow fashion brand that celebrates the soul of Japanese heritage through carefully selected vintage kimonos, haoris, and accessories.

Our Story

CityZen was officially born in 2021 in Sofia, Bulgaria, with a secret sale held in our living room. The response was immediate and heartfelt - people fell in love with the uniqueness, the handcraft, the silk, and the spirit woven into each piece. That early support inspired us to go deeper.

Since 2023, we've been based in Japan, where we personally hand-select every item from trusted partners in Sendai, Tokyo, Kyoto, Aomori, and Kamakura. Living here has allowed us to build close relationships with vintage textile experts, and to access the most exquisite, authentic pieces available.

CityZen also holds an official antique trader license in Japan — giving us access to rare, high-quality garments, many dating from the 1950s to 1970s, and sometimes over a century old.

Our Philosophy

We believe everyone deserves to feel free to express themselves in a way that’s personal, authentic, and bold. Our pieces are not just beautiful garments - they are wearable art stories. Handcrafted by Japanese artisans, often from silk, each kimono and haori carries the precision, spirit, and tradition of those who made it.

In a world ruled by fast fashion, we offer something different: slow, intentional, and full of soul. Every visible trace of time is part of the garment’s magic. When you wear a CityZen piece, you’re not just making a style statement - you’re continuing its story.

Learn more about our products here.