Beach Sandal Day (Bīchi Sandaru no Hi)

What is Beach Sandal Day?

August 3rd is "Beach Sandal Day." It was established by TSUKUMO Co., Ltd., which makes beach sandals one by one using traditional methods, and is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association. The aim is to get more people wearing beach sandals — said to have originated in Japan — and enjoying summer from their feet up. The date comes from reading the "8" of August as the letter "B" for "beach," and the "3" (san) of the 3rd as the "san" in "sandal."

Why August 3rd is "Beach Sandal Day"

It's a unique date that combines the shape and the reading of numbers. Early August is also the height of summer, when beach sandals get the most use.

• "8" → "B": The shape of the number 8 is likened to the letter B, for "beach."
• "3" → "san": The reading of 3, "san," matches the start of "sandal."
• A symbol of summer: The season for the beach, the pool, and summer festivals.

Beach Sandals Were Born in Japan

Rubber beach sandals with a thong strap are said to have been created in postwar Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese zori sandals, they are said to have been developed in the 1950s by rubber manufacturers in Kobe and others, and later spread overseas. TSUKUMO established this day as a company that continues to make these Japanese-born sandals in Japan.

The Appeal of Beach Sandals

• Light and cool: Ideal footwear for summer.
• A wide range of designs: From colorful to simple styles.
• Water-resistant: Great for the beach or river play.
• Easy to slip on: Convenient for quick outings.

Trivia About Beach Sandal Day

• A Showa-era summer staple: They spread after World War II and became essential for summer leisure.
• Known as "flip-flops" worldwide: The name is said to come from the flip-flop sound they make when you walk.
• Not for driving: Driving in beach sandals, which slip off easily, can interfere with pedal operation, so people are advised to avoid it.
• Other days on the same date: August 3rd also features pun-based days such as Honey Day, Hamo Day, and Scissors Day.

Ways to Enjoy Beach Sandal Day

• Treat yourself to a new pair of beach sandals.
• Head to the beach or pool and enjoy summer to the fullest.
• Check out beach sandals made in Japan.
• Mix and match strap and sole colors to find a pair you love.

A Light Pair That Adds Color to Your Summer Steps

August 3rd, Beach Sandal Day, is an anniversary for enjoying the free and open feeling of summer. Take a walk through summer scenery in this Japanese-born footwear.