5 Recommended Shopping Spots in Ethiopia with Strong Ties to Japan!

Ethiopia, known as the gateway to Africa, is experiencing rapid growth. In the capital city, Addis Ababa, large shopping malls have been built, and there are more and more places where tourists can enjoy shopping.
This time, we’ll introduce some shops that are especially recommended for souvenir shopping. All of these shops are located in Addis Ababa, so be sure to visit them when you travel to Ethiopia.

1. Salem's Ethiopia

If you want to buy high-quality souvenirs in Ethiopia, this is the place! They offer a wide selection of traditional Ethiopian souvenirs such as textiles, jewelry, pottery, and baskets. All items are handmade with time and care, making them valuable and high-quality pieces.
The shop also has an attached workshop where you can watch Ethiopian artisans weaving fabrics and making baskets. The staff is very friendly, so you’ll enjoy your shopping experience here.
It’s also close to Bole International Airport, making it a great stop for souvenir shopping on your way home.

2. Entoto Beth Artisan

If you're looking to buy Ethiopian accessories as souvenirs, Entoto Beth Artisan is highly recommended. You’ll find a wide variety of accessories, mainly beaded jewelry, as well as leather wallets and bags, and even unique pieces made from coffee beans.
This shop started as a facility to help women who had been marginalized by society due to illness or other reasons, supporting their economic independence. Some of the beads used in the jewelry are actually recycled from bullets. Entoto Beth Artisan is a great example of a socially responsible business. There’s a workshop next to the store where you can see many women working. It’s a good chance to get a glimpse of Ethiopian society while shopping.

3. Sabahar

Sabahar means "Queen’s Silk." This Ethiopian textile brand was created to help alleviate poverty by producing high-quality fabrics using traditional Ethiopian weaving techniques. They also handle silk farming and the development of equipment needed for silk production.
Sabahar now trades worldwide, including in Japan, but you can also tour their workshop in Ethiopia. If you’re shopping in Ethiopia, this is a must-visit. Unlike the often flashy African fabrics, Sabahar’s products feature subdued colors and designs made from natural dyes, making them very practical.

4. Muya

Muya means "talent" and is one of Ethiopia’s most famous textile companies. Their products modernize traditional motifs, offering designs distinct from Sabahar.
The shop mainly sells cotton products but also carries pottery and leather goods—all made in Ethiopia! While you can also shop for Muya’s cotton products in Japan, just like Sabahar, you can tour their workshop in Ethiopia. It’s located near Entoto Beth Artisan, so why not enjoy shopping at both?

5. SoleRebels

The footwear brand SoleRebels uses Ethiopia's specialty leather and handwoven fabrics, with recycled tires used for the soles. The shoes are designed to feel as comfortable as walking barefoot, making them perfect even for Japanese feet.
Founded in 2002 by Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, who started making flip-flops from recycled tires with her brothers. Today, SoleRebels shoes are available worldwide, but you might find better deals buying them locally. There are several stores in Ethiopia, so stop by if you come across one.

◎ Summary

We introduced recommended souvenir shopping spots in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. These shops all preserve Ethiopian traditions while challenging themselves with new designs.
Ethiopia continues to grow rapidly, and we’re sure even more wonderful shops will open in the future. Shopping in Ethiopia is definitely something to look forward to!