Yamatomichi x Outsiders Store

Since our founding in 2011, we’ve been driven by a simple idea:
to share the culture of ultralight hiking, and to create the best gear rooted in its philosophy.

This spring, we mark our first official presence in Europe at Outsiders Store in the UK.

Outsiders Store is more than a shop. With locations in London, Manchester, and Liverpool, they have created a distinct presence in the UK outdoor scene—one shaped by style, community, and culture.

Our connection with Outsiders Store began when co-founder Fred Royle visited Kamakura. We were drawn to his character, his perspective on the outdoors, and the spirit he brought with him. That meeting sparked our curiosity about the landscapes he calls home—the fields, trails, and hills of the UK.

Later, the Yamatomichi team traveled to the UK and spent time camping and hiking with Fred, the Outsiders team, and their families. Being together outdoors, we came to feel a genuine kinship in the way we relate to nature and the culture that grows around it.

We later had the pleasure of hiking in Japan with the Outsiders team, including Charlie from marketing, who recently reflected on the experience on the Outsiders blog.

What we hope to build in the UK is not founded on products alone, but on friendship. Through our relationship with Outsiders Store, we hope to help foster a culture grounded in walking, conversation, and a shared relationship with the landscape.

We’re excited to see how hikers in the UK will use our gear—and what landscapes they’ll walk through with it.

Know Your Gear, Carry Less, Go Further.

A new journey for Yamatomichi begins here.

Founder Akira Natsume will share the thinking behind Yamatomichi and the philosophy of ultralight hiking.

Ultralight is not just about reducing weight—it’s a way to simplify, to sharpen awareness, and to move more freely through nature.

We’ll explore how this philosophy connects with hiking culture in the UK.

A hands-on workshop introducing the basics of ultralight hiking and thoughtful gear selection.

Through a packing demonstration, you’ll see how Yamatomichi staff approach their own ultralight hiking setup. The session will explore how each piece helps shape the ultralight hiking experience.

We’ll head to trails near Manchester for a workshop-style group hike.

Bringing the spirit of Yamatomichi HLC to the UK, we’ll walk, talk, and share practical ultralight hiking knowledge on the trail—with the hope of growing a new community together.