Magazine House, a renowned publishing company based in Ginza, Tokyo, is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a bold move into the international market. The publisher recently released English editions of its acclaimed lifestyle magazines, POPEYE and BRUTUS, extending the reach of Japanese cultural publishing to new audiences in the United States.

The milestone was commemorated with a special bookazine fair held at the McNally Jackson bookstore in SoHo, New York City, on October 10 and 11. Following strong U.S. sales at Kinokuniya and other Japanese bookstores, this collaboration brought 12 titles to New York readers — including English editions of POPEYE, BRUTUS, Casa BRUTUS, and &Premium.

The event highlighted Magazine House’s continued influence and the enduring global appeal of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship. Visitors eagerly browsed the colorful, high-quality magazines, drawn in by the stunning visuals and unique cultural insights.

“New York, the reading capital of the country, mirrors the creative energy we feel in Tokyo,” said Jack Kyono, store manager at McNally Jackson. “The culture around printed matter in Japan is unmatched, and POPEYE is a personal favorite of mine — the photography, art direction, and product features are extraordinary. Even though most buyers can’t read Japanese, it always sells out.”

POPEYE and Casa BRUTUS resonated strongly with attendees like Robert, who said, “I’m very interested in Japanese architecture and art. I even have woodblock prints at home.” Giulia, visiting from Italy, remarked, “Every magazine is truly beautiful. I now want to travel around Japan and visit the places shown in the articles.”

Attendees also appreciated Casa BRUTUS’s special issue on Takashi Murakami and trading cards, complete with collectible bonuses. Pens and notebooks distributed as survey gifts further showcased Japan’s reputation for meticulous design and product quality.

The event’s location was fitting — McNally Jackson has built a reputation as a cultural hub in New York since its founding in 2004. With five locations, the independent bookstore curates one of the most diverse collections of international literature in the city. From Japanese authors like Asako Yuzuki and Mieko Kawakami to alt-classics and chapbooks, the store offers rare finds and regularly hosts book clubs and signings, including a recent visit by Nobel Prize-winning author László Krasznahorkai.

“Magazines may be in decline,” added Kyono, “but they remain vital. There’s a passion for them here in New York that won’t disappear. They offer tactile discovery that online browsing simply can’t replicate.”

About BRUTUS

Founded in 1980, BRUTUS is Japan’s leading magazine for contemporary culture, exploring art, travel, design, and food with a bold editorial voice and cutting-edge visual style.

About POPEYE

First published in 1976, POPEYE — “The Magazine for City Boys” — is a pioneering title in men’s fashion and youth culture, chronicling life and style from an urban Japanese perspective.

About Magazine House Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1945 in Ginza, Tokyo, MAGAZINE HOUSE has long been a creative force in publishing and digital innovation. With an enduring commitment to inspiring content and quality design, Magazine House continues to influence global readers with its distinct editorial voice.

• Magazine House Homepage
• 80th Anniversary Site
• BRUTUS Website
• BRUTUS Instagram
• POPEYE Website
• POPEYE Instagram

ーOfficial Press Release