OMOTENASHI

御もてなし (Tokyo – Kyoto)

𝗢𝗠𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗜 𝗔𝗦 𝗔 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗣𝗟𝗘

What if the future of design is empathy and we see…

As part of #shapewhatsnext, we deep-dived into the Japanese hospitality mindset —
and explored the meaning of Omotenashi.

A design principle.
A cultural philosophy.
A radical form of empathy.

Omotenashi AS A DESIGN PRINCIPLE

#OMOTENASHI is a way of seeing others.
The quiet art of anticipating needs without being asked.

Experiencing Omotenashi

From Tokyo’s sushi bars, izakayas, and the unforgettable TORI SOBA ramen bar in Shimokitazawa —
to Kyoto’s MARUFUKURO Hotel, where Nintendo’s former HQ has been transformed by TADAO ANDO into a quiet temple of slow luxury.

As well as the world-famous TRUNK (HOTEL) crafting connection in Shibuya.

We ended at KEICHITSU, a serene Michelin-starred restaurant near Shibuya,
where every detail felt like a gesture of deep respect.

What it changed

Omotenashi challenged our idea of what it means to serve, host, and design for meaning.

It sharpens how we design experiences, create value, and serve others with greater intention.

Omotenashi as a Design Principle

(#swnxt)

It’s a mindset that makes our work better —
and more meaningful —

FOR THE PEOPLE WE DESIGN FOR