In time for the Olympics, Onitsuka Tiger opens a Paris ‘hôtel’
2024-07-27
Onitsuka Tiger Celebrates 75 Years with Immersive Parisian Experience
As the world's attention turns to Paris for the highly anticipated Olympic Games, Japanese sportswear brand Onitsuka Tiger is seizing the spotlight to commemorate its own milestone. Marking 75 years in business, the brand is unveiling a unique and immersive experience on the iconic Champs-Élysées, inviting cultural luminaries and the public alike to explore its rich heritage and bright future.
Unlocking the Secrets of Onitsuka Tiger's Storied Past
Onitsuka Tiger's legacy is deeply intertwined with the Olympic Games, having debuted its iconic Runsparks at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and the seminal Mexico 66 sneakers at the 1968 Mexico City Games. Now, the brand is inviting visitors to delve into its storied past through an exhibition of archival footwear and a captivating display of photographs spanning the last 75 years.Guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the brand's origins, learning about the visionary founder, Kihachiro Onitsuka, and his unwavering commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The exhibition promises to transport visitors through time, showcasing the evolution of Onitsuka Tiger's designs and its enduring influence on the world of sports and fashion.
Bridging the Past and Present: Onitsuka Tiger's Artistic Collaborations
Onitsuka Tiger's celebration of its 75th anniversary extends beyond the realm of sportswear, as the brand has long been a champion of the arts. The Hôtel Onitsuka Tiger, nestled within an 18th-century Parisian hôtel particulier, will serve as a hub for cultural exchange, hosting a diverse array of artists and creatives in changing residencies.Visitors can look forward to captivating performances and installations by renowned figures such as pianist Yuja Wang, songwriter and musician Maïa Barouk, and emerging artist Yutaro Inagaki. These collaborations not only celebrate Onitsuka Tiger's deep-rooted connection to the arts but also provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and the fostering of new creative synergies.
Savoring the Flavors of Japan: The Yellow Tiger Café
Complementing the cultural experiences at the Hôtel Onitsuka Tiger is the Yellow Tiger Café, a Japanese restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Yoji Tokuyoshi. Offering contemporary interpretations of traditional Japanese cuisine, the café promises to transport guests on a culinary journey, seamlessly blending the brand's Japanese heritage with the vibrant energy of Paris.The intimate setting of the Yellow Tiger Café invites visitors to indulge in a sensory exploration, where the flavors of Japan are elevated and reimagined, creating a harmonious dialogue between the brand's roots and its global aspirations.
Paving the Way for a New Era on the Champs-Élysées
The Hôtel Onitsuka Tiger and its accompanying events are but a prelude to the brand's ambitious plans for the future. In 2025, Onitsuka Tiger will unveil a new flagship store on the Champs-Élysées, further cementing its presence on one of the world's most iconic boulevards.This move aligns with the ongoing evolution of the Champs-Élysées, which has witnessed a surge of luxury openings, from the monolithic Saint Laurent store to the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton project. Onitsuka Tiger's new flagship will not only showcase its latest collections but also serve as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange, solidifying the brand's position as a trailblazer in the realm of sports, fashion, and the arts.As the world's gaze turns to Paris, Onitsuka Tiger's Hôtel Onitsuka Tiger stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy and its unwavering commitment to innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. This immersive experience promises to captivate and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on all who step through its doors.