German camera maker Leica opened its newest flagship store in Kyoto that operates in Gion, a traditional geisha neighbourhood. A 100-year-old, two-story traditional "machiya" style townhouse reconstructed using artisan techniques, retaining the exterior and the original structure, has been married to the Leica worldview, creating a unique Leica store unlike any before it.

Contemporary elements were styled by Danish design studio OeO, alongside with Kyoto textile maker Hosoo and Yoshida. The store's interior, which evokes an atmosphere of Japanese tradition, features two floors; a shop downstair, a tatami room, an indoor garden and a gallery upstair. By retaining much of the original structures and facade, the new Leica shop sit in perfection with its neighbors. Only a small lantern bearing the Leica logo plus a logo on the entrance curtain are used to mark the Leica shop. It's a clever localization of the Leica brand in this 1,200-years of ancient city.

To mark the opening of Kyoto store, Leica released 100 pieces of limited-edition Leica MP camera in olive green with leather strap with a price tag of euro 11,000.