As modern Japan has changed its face so much, I do miss the traditional family-run shops which were still abundant in Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu-shi in the early 90s.
Nevertheless, the real antique shop signs could only be had from antique shops. On Sundays, when I wasn’t working, we would browse the antique shops around Kokura-ku and pick up an interesting antique (骨董品) here and there.
This store sign measures about 50 cm (20″) in width, and is carved from wood. Today it is hanging in our living room.
This one measures about 60 cm (24″) in height, made from wood, and decorates another living room wall.
What a difference to these modern store fronts in Shibuya – Omotesando!