November
11
Geta (Wooden Sandal) Day
OtherWhat Is Geta Day?
November 11th is "Geta Day" in Japan, honoring the traditional wooden sandal. The date comes from the footprint geta leave resembling "11 11," and it was established by the Izunagaoka Onsen Tourism Association.
A Holiday for Traditional Footwear, Born From a Footprint's Shape
Geta are traditional Japanese sandals made with a wooden platform and a fabric thong, cherished as a seasonal symbol of summer festivals and hot spring resorts alongside yukata robes.
- Origin: the two-toothed footprint left by walking in geta resembles the numeral sequence "11 11"
- Purpose: to spread the appeal of geta as part of Japan's traditional footwear culture
- Its connection to hot spring resorts: hot spring inns still maintain the tradition of strolling in yukata and geta
The Distinctive Atmosphere of That "Karan Koron" Sound
The "karan koron" clacking sound of walking in geta has long been cherished as part of the nighttime atmosphere of a hot spring town.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Enjoy a stroll in yukata and geta at a hot spring inn
- Look into the history and structure of geta
- Learn how to choose geta that fit you well
- Compare geta with other traditional Japanese footwear, like zori
The Sound of "Karan Koron" Brings Back Memories of Summer
The sound of walking in geta carries the atmosphere of festivals and hot spring towns. November 11th is a day to listen closely to that sound once again.