Wachifield Day
OtherWhat Is Wachifield Day?
December 17th is "Wachifield Day" in Japan, marking the day in 1983 when the first directly-operated store of leather goods maker "Wachifield" opened in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo — and also the day, within the story, when the cat Dayan crossed over into the mysterious land of Wachifield. The anniversary was certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2022.
The Story of "Wachifield"
"Wachifield" is a story set in a fictional country created by author Akiko Ikeda.
- The protagonist: Dayan the cat and a colorful cast of companions embark on adventures and unravel mysteries
- The doorway: the "Yolka Door" connects the real world to the land of Wachifield
- Its reach: beyond picture books and novels, the story has expanded into character merchandise, animation, and more
An Anniversary Where Story and Brand Overlap
"Wachifield" is both the name of the fictional world and the name of the leather goods company that produces Dayan merchandise. December 17th was chosen because it marks both a real-world event — the opening of the Jiyugaoka flagship store — and a story event — Dayan's crossing into the mysterious land.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Read a Dayan picture book or check out related merchandise
- Visit the Wachifield store in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo
- Explore other works by author Akiko Ikeda
- Look for your favorite piece of character merchandise
Another World, Waiting Beyond the Door
A real store standing in Jiyugaoka, and a door that opens into a land of wonder within the story — Wachifield is a brand built on a distinctive world where reality and fantasy overlap. Let December 17th be a chance to step, just a little, into the mysterious land where Dayan and friends live.