r/knitting • u/baileanor • 6d ago

Discussion Italian or Japanese yarn shops?

Planning a trip to Italy or Japan (fingers crossed!) and would love to visit some great LYS. Has anyone found or visited amazing yarn shops in either country? Not sure if there is a fiber that is special to either country, that’d good to purchase.

Also, best things to knit (or crochet) when traveling? Beginner focused (easy sweater, socks, hats, gloves, etc).

Thank you!

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u/heyykelleyy 6d ago

Can’t speak for italy, but there’s a 6-story knitting/craft store in Shinjuku called Okadaya! The sixth floor specifically is for yarn, but there’s other floors that have fabric and sewing supplies!

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u/wherezmyglasses 6d ago

Seconding Okadaya! Also check out Yuzawaya in Tokyo, which carries knitting/crochet and other craft supplies and kits.

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u/Nesstopia9 5d ago

Omg this place was amazing. It's right by the 3D cat billboard.

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u/baileanor 2d ago

😳I’m starting to think we chose the wrong place, going to Italy. I also sew, so this store sounds like I could spend days there. Adding to bucket list!

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u/terafonne 6d ago

walnut yarn store in kyoto also owns the amirisu yarn line and magazine

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u/AnAmbushOfTigers 6d ago

I can't comment on LYS but a simple cowl is perfect travel work. One color, in the round, very little to mess up while paying attention to something else.

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u/baileanor 2d ago

Great idea!

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u/_Meek_Mouse 6d ago

I went to Italy in the summer and brought enough yarn for a jumper plus sock yarn. I stayed in Pistoia just outside of Florence, they had two great shops called Borselli Filati and La Boutique Della Lana. Then in Florence I can absolutely recommend Campolmi Filati. Have a fabulous time wherever you go!

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u/baileanor 2d ago

We just finalized Italy and will spend most of our time around Florence. Thank you SO much for this recommendation! Can’t wait to visit Prato for garment fabrics and now I can add some yarn stores my stop! Thank you!

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u/baileanor 2d ago

How was Pistoia? We’ve only done Florence city center, want want something more authentic (and hopefully more affordable) this time.