So...who are you?
Hi, and thanks for asking.
My name is Bill...surprise, surprise. I have lived in Tokyo for quite some years now, coming over after finishing my degree in food sciences. However, I'm not a brewer nor in the restaurant business, nor am I a professional food or entertainment writer.
I started this site to keep myself productive during Covid lockdown, work on my writing and web skills and otherwise keep myself busy with my work situation offering fewer hours than I really would like. I toyed with the idea of Twitch streaming but geez, look at me -- can you imagine listening to me ramble on while I (very badly) play Left for Dead or World of Warships?? I'm just not that good at conversation!
My interest in Japan was not because of some romantic Asian fantasy or fascination. Yes, I saw Shogun on TV. Yes, I was a rabid viewer of The Master with Lee van Cleef during its short run. Yes, I got into Jackie Chan movies and other Golden Harvest productions when at university. Yes, I think Asian women are tremendously attractive. But I DID get into Japanese martial arts, and THAT inspired me to consider actually moving here and, well, I Did move here!
That said, why should you pay any attention to me? Well...you really don't have to -- and that's okay! I simply want to invite you to share in some of my experiences exploring the Tokyo area craft beer scene, and maybe some other fine establishments you won't find out about in the travel guides. As you might have read, I like to showcase some of the products and places that I happen to like, and to highlight upcoming events that you may appreciate knowing about.
So with that, my fellow beverage aficionados, welcome to, and thank you for visiting...theTokyoBill.
P.S. And, not to sound like I'm begging, but I Could use a bit of help, if you're so inclined. Not that I'm Expecting an angel to drop a bucket of cash at my feet, but as I work part-time in a falling economy, I've resorted to trying my hand at online sales & donations.
Cheers for reading all this, once again! :)
An introduction to my stores
I've set up a number of e-stores with ready-made and print-on-demand items, as well as a donation link. Hopefully you find something interesting!
If you like, send me a pic of you modelling your item and I'll feature you in the section below!
Thanks, folks!
A shoutout to some of you who've helped me out with my work, by helping yourself to some merch! If you want to show off your thanks, message me...and share a pic if you're up for it! :)
'Greenland is NOT for sale!',
via ebay
Bikini w/geometric shapes
via Shopify
'Ninja' tees,
via Bonfire
KUMOJI Life & Home products
Coffee blends, vitamin and post-workout supplements, skin and haircare products.
* PLEASE NOTE: Distribution is limited to certain countries, as noted below. Please check before purchasing!
Where to view?
ebay: click on the image to visit ebay.
Coffee products are not on ebay at this time, FYI.
Shopify: button clicks will take you to Shopify.
BONFIRE*
* 20% of any BONFIRE purchases will go to charity!
I often attend the charity event Beers for Books in Tokyo which raises money for Room to Read, and I've found that print-on-demand provider Bonfire allows me to make automatic donations from purchased items.
Care to help a child out? Click on the images to see the product in detail, and order your item today!
New! Reading-Eye Dogs series! A new doggy series, various models wearing glasses, part of my desire to promote reading and literacy. The charity I support, Room To Read, provides books for children in developing countries who otherwise might not have access to reading materials.
Mugs/Drinkware, Assorted items
Calligraphy fans, enjoy the hand-drawn 'Ninja' kanji schemes. Other patterns on the way!
Clicking on the picture will take you to ebay...though they're listed on Shopify as well. Each item features identical prints on both the right and the left side of the cup. All good for righties and lefties!
Where to view?
ebay: click on the image to visit ebay
Shopify: click the text to visit Shopify
Updated: Sweater Dogs!
Wherever it gets cold, be mindful to take care of your doggy pals, okay?
With winter being over, I've limited the sweater dogs to a few samples. The new items feature identical prints on both the right and the left side of the cup. All good for righties and lefties!
As with the Reading-Eye-Dogs series, there are two 11 oz. mug designs: plain white, or white with colored trim in various colors.
Also shown below are air fresheners for your car -- 3 scents are available at the store!
Also on ebay...
Clothing items such as tees, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats. Also, coffee mugs, car air fresheners, drink coasters and more!
For details, visit the ebay page by clicking on a photo.
By the way, if you're looking for a different color, a variation on the themes, or want to make a product suggestion, email me at orders[at]thetokyobill.com. I'd be happy to redesign if it's not too difficult!
Beach/Swimwear
There are varying sizes available, and many of the fashions have optional color schemes.
Info on individual products via the links.
For Shopify: Click the picture
For ebay: Click the text
There is No obligation to buy! :)
Beachwear
Spring and summer fashions...i.e. swim and beach wear are on the menu!
Many items have color variations on the trim/strings, with pictures available at the stores, and available sizes are listed as well.
Click the pics to see details & pricing. :)
Direct links to Shopify, though these items are also available on ebay, FYI.
Car Accessories
Air fresheners, bumper stickers, and car magnets.
For Shopify: Click the picture
For ebay: Click the text
FYI, air fresheners are available in three scents: Pine, New Car, and Black Ice.
Bumper Stickers
"NOT for sale!" message with 2 maple leaves in support of Canadian freedom from USA bullying.
Color: blue
Bumper Stickers
"NOT for sale!" message with 2 maple leaves in support of Canadian freedom from USA bullying.
Color: orange
Bumper Stickers
"NOT for sale!" message with 2 maple leaves in support of Canadian freedom from USA bullying.
Color: yellow
Bumper Stickers
"NOT for sale!" message with 2 maple leaves in support of Canadian freedom from USA bullying.
Color: white
Car Magnets
Stickers not your style?? Then maybe non-permanent magnets are better for you...shout out your support for Canadian freedom!
Color: blue
Car Magnets
Stickers not your style?? Then maybe non-permanent magnets are better for you...shout out your support for Canadian freedom!
Color: orange
Car Magnets
Stickers not your style?? Then maybe non-permanent magnets are better for you...shout out your support for Canadian freedom!
Color: yellow
Car Magnets
Stickers not your style?? Then maybe non-permanent magnets are better for you...shout out your support for Canadian freedom!
Color: white
Car Magnet: "Slava Ukraini!"
Support Ukraine--tell the world you stand with them!
Artwork
From my personal collection of calligraphy and pictures, hand-painted by my teacher, now-retired grandmaster of Bujinkan ninjutsu Hatsumi Masaaki.
Over many years I collected pieces from Hatsumi-sensei, and kept them in storage but I haven't the space to show them. Maybe You will be able to show them off on your own wall.
Each piece is a unique item, ink-on-paper, you can frame and hang for a beautiful touch of Japanese culture. As for size, each item is roughly 25x35cm.
Pieces will be sent directly by me via snail mail, at no extra cost to you. Should you wish alternate shipping, however, we can discuss.