Hello there!
This is Gussan, your SaruKuma writer!

I have a confession to make — I absolutely adore variety stores!
If you asked me how much, I couldn’t really put it into words,
but let’s just say that when stress builds up, my go-to options are either karaoke or browsing variety stores.

And lately, I’ve been incredibly excited about one thing in particular —
a new variety store opening in Kengun!

I’ve actually tried visiting several times since the opening, but I kept showing up on closing days (should’ve checked first!) ←
or arriving after hours ←(should’ve checked first!)
so I just couldn’t seem to make it work…

Finally, I made it inside the other day, so I’d love to introduce it to you!
Located in Kengun, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City,
this is [Variety Store HANAKIRIN].
Since the shop isn’t on the main street, let me start with directions.

When you get off at Kengun Tram Stop, you’ll spot “Sukidamarink,” famous for their salt bread.
From here, walk straight ahead.
Turn left at the end of the road and walk a bit further, then…
There it is on your left — an absolutely charming log cabin!
If you’re driving, there’s parking right in front of the shop (room for 3 cars).
The owner, Ms. Yamashita, previously worked for many years at “Kaju,” a beloved cake shop in Kengun, before opening this shop on June 5, 2020!
Here’s the log cabin from the side. Adorable, right?
Inside, the shop is packed with cute little treasures!
Baby toys ¥950 / Bibs ¥600
There are also lovely baby shower gifts to choose from!
Gauze Handkerchiefs ¥200
Envelope sets ¥200–¥320
Best-selling double-walled glass cups ¥900 and up
Glass Jars ¥1,000 and up
Handmade Glassware ¥1,200 and up
Tons of hair accessories too!
Plus loads of hair clips for little girls!
Bento boxes and water bottles ¥700 and up that’ll make lunchtime more fun!
Hand sanitizer gel ¥800
“Reunion Gifts” ¥850 — these would be perfect for friends you haven’t seen in a while ♪
When I took my basket of goodies to the register…
Surprise! I received candy and a ballpoint pen as a gift!
Apparently the ballpoint pen is given to all first-time customers as a memento ♪
The owner Ms. Yamashita’s feminine warmth and thoughtful touches really shine through ♪

Recommended Items

Kids’ hair ties (set of 20) ¥200 — the colors are subtle enough that moms can wear them too ♪
Kids’ hair pins ¥200 — perfect for matching your mood, rain or shine ♪
Masking tape (set of 10) ¥500 — what a bargain!
Memo pads ¥450 — so many designs, it was hard to choose!
Hair clips ¥450 — I love the colors, shapes, and how easy they are to use ♪

[Variety Store HANAKIRIN] is overflowing with affordable, adorable items.
With such a great selection of hair accessories, it’s a fantastic spot for moms with little girls ♪

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.