Masayuki Kaneko

Born in 1983 in Ōkawa, Fukuoka. Drawn to drawing since childhood and, through an interest in fashion, entered the world of men’s footwear. Founder of Masayuki Kaneko Shoemaker.

After working in men’s shoe retail, he decided to pursue shoemaking in earnest, inspired by artisans he met while traveling.

He studied the fundamentals at a footwear school in Asakusa, then spent about ten years gaining diverse experience: handmade-shoe workshops, teaching, and outsole work for manufacturers.

In September 2019 he moved back to Fukuoka and founded the atelier “Masayuki Kaneko Shoemaker.” He now continues his work at his studio in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka.

Alongside his craft, he leads The Makers Guild to promote making culture and cultivate the next generation.