Oh dear, well pulled in by their points scheme finally I have registered on Rakuten and grabbed two han -eri (kimono half collars) from a seller So-Bien

Registering has made my purchase flow on Rakuten quicker and smoother, something that will help me empty my bank account each month I am sure.

However, things are going to get worse. On the 9th Sept, like with their Australian offering – Rakuten is going to have a specific UK site to tailor more towards the needs of the UK shopping entity. Hold on to your purses people.

This recession is forcing small unique bricks and mortar shops that import from places like Japan to either move on-line or close. The Japanese economy thrives on export so it is only natural that they start hitting the UK shores.

Kimono-wise Rakuten gives me more options, there are a few good online stores with an English site (well 3) and also I buy from around 3 or 4 eBay sellers. But I do find myself hunting for things month on month as I can’t get them through those outlets. However, Rakuten opens up Japan for me so I can find the items on my kimono shopping list at the right prices.

So, what’s the future? Are marketplaces like Rakuten going to take our money out of our own economy? In the first place I would say yes, but if a marketplace is successful in a country they will also look for home-grown consultants and employees to support the success of the site.

With Japanese culture having a profound effect on the youth of today through Manga, Anime, fashion and fascination we shall see changes. Trade is a two way animal, many a time I have shipped my hairpieces to Japan so the Japanese on-line shoppers are looking at us too.

Watch out for more info and blogging on Rakuten nearer the launch!