'Esquire' Japan Launches New Award Project 'Esquire Essentials 2026' to Define the 'Aesthetic Sense' of the New Intellectual Affluent

Hearst Fujingaho Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Nicolas Froquet) is launching 'Esquire Essentials 2026,' a new award-style project for 'Esquire' Japan, the global media brand founded in the U.S. in 1933 and distributed in over 20 countries and regions. This project will recognize and introduce items that combine functionality and aesthetic sensibility to enrich the lives of the new intellectual affluent.

The first installment, 'Vol.1: Summer Essentials,' will launch today, June 30, 2026 (Tue.), with a special website on Esquire Digital.

'Esquire Essentials 2026' Special Website

Esquire Digital: https://www.esquire.com/jp/

Background and Concept of 'Esquire Essentials': 'Best of the Best'

In today's world overflowing with information and goods, there is a growing need for an 'aesthetic sense' to discern 'the real thing' that aligns with one's values, rather than merely chasing trends. 'Esquire' Japan will newly recognize and define 'modern essentials' that seamlessly blend functionality and beauty for the new intellectual affluent, embodying the slogan 'Man At His Best' (enjoying creation, discerning essence, possessing aesthetic sensibility).

This project is a globally coordinated initiative, optimized for the Japanese edition based on successful cases from the U.S. and Philippine editions of 'Esquire.' Esquire editors, experts in their respective fields, will go beyond mere specifications, incorporating 'hands-on reviews' from actual use in private and business settings, along with their unique 'passions,' to select one item per person with quality that directly influences readers' purchasing decisions.

Comment from Tomoyuki Kondo, Editor-in-Chief of 'Esquire' Japan

'In an era where gadgets solely pursue efficiency, we cherish time itself. While basic, we are moved by the craftsmanship embedded in the details. What we are truly seeking now are products that make time our ally, allowing us to genuinely exclaim 'This is good' in unexpected moments, even in the future. The newly launched 'Esquire Essentials' is not just a presentation of trends. It is an award where the Esquire editorial team, with their unique aesthetic sense, passion, and strong commitment, has faced each item and confidently certified them as 'essentials' that bring rich experiences to modern life. We hope this will be the key to more excitingly updating the lifestyles of our readers as they prepare for the summer bonus season and gift shopping.'

Key 3 Categories and Selected 'Summer Essentials'

Going beyond the existing three major genres (fashion, watches, automobiles), we have selected 10 items that will enrich this summer from three key categories covering 'overall lifestyle,' focusing on modern well-being, travel, and summer grooming.

1 Beauty & Grooming (Men's beauty, beauty appliances, fragrances)

The 'new grooming' for modern men to smartly navigate the harsh summer environment. We've picked self-care items to combat summer-specific skin stress, such as UV rays, sweat, and dryness from air conditioning. From beauty appliances that maintain the cleanliness and dignity befitting an executive, to fragrances that enhance individuality, a collection of masterpieces personally used by the editorial team.

2 Gadget & Tech (PCs, audio, mobile, cameras)

Next-generation gear that creates comfortable time beyond 'efficiency.' We've carefully selected innovative technology products that offer not just improved specs and productivity, but also the joy of ownership and experiential value that resonates with the senses. We present items for mindfulness during business breaks and for enriching summer nights.

3 Lifestyle (Beverages/Alcohol, Travel Gear, Interiors, Tableware, Hotels, etc.)

'Supreme summer experiences' that escape the everyday and satisfy intellectual curiosity. From high-quality travel gear to fully enjoy a summer without restrictions, to interiors and alcoholic beverages that elevate relaxation time at home, and even the latest destinations (hotels) that stimulate the senses. We cover essentials for designing a rich lifestyle.

Three-Dimensional Approach with Multimedia Package

'Esquire Essentials 2026' will feature in-depth review articles on Esquire Digital, as well as synchronized distribution on social media platforms such as official Instagram and X. It will offer a three-dimensional media experience integrating visuals, sound, and real stories.

This project is planned to be held twice a year, with the next installment, 'Vol.2: Winter Essentials,' scheduled for November, focusing on holiday gifts, home interiors, and year-end indulgences.

'Esquire' is a global media brand founded in the U.S. in 1933, currently distributed in 22 countries and regions. 'Esquire' Japan, with its slogan 'Man At His Best,' delivers high-quality content that seamlessly connects fashion, lifestyle, art, design, and journalism. The magazine, published four times a year, excels in reporting and interviews with top artists from various fields, in addition to fashion and watches. The digital edition also covers a wider range of themes such as technology and fitness. With its long history, 'Esquire' continues to evolve alongside men who discern essence and possess a high aesthetic sensibility.

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Esquire Digital: www.esquire.com/jp/

Instagram: @esquirejapan

X: @esquirejapan

Facebook: @Esquire Japan

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[About Hearst Fujingaho Co., Ltd.]

Hearst Fujingaho Co., Ltd. is part of Hearst, a global corporation headquartered in the U.S. that operates information, service, and media businesses in 40 countries worldwide. Hearst Digital Japan Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hearst Fujingaho Co., Ltd., established in 2016 to expand digital business. The company operates numerous digital media and publishes magazines, including 'Fujingaho' (founded in 1905), 'ELLE,' '25ans,' 'Harper's BAZAAR,' and 'Esquire,' focusing on fashion and lifestyle. E-commerce businesses, including 'ELLE SHOP,' have also grown into a pillar of revenue. In recent years, the company has been developing corporate activities that integrate digital and data with content creation expertise, such as launching 'HEARST made' to provide comprehensive marketing support for client companies and 'HEARST Data Solutions' for data-driven brand marketing support. The company also practices sustainability-conscious management, having obtained ISO 14001 certification.