The Best Sneakers Shop in Tokyo Japan
Shane | September 3, 2019 | 198
Tokyo may still be inferior to Milan, Paris, or New York as the center of world fashion. But Tokyo is one of the fashion centers in Asia. Together with Singapore and Hong Kong, Japan has become a cultural mecca in Asia. One of them is sneakers or casual shoes, which are now being hype among young people, not only in Indonesia but throughout the world.
In Tokyo alone, sneakers are gaining ground because the Harajuku style is perfect when wearing sneakers. Then if you walk to Tokyo and want to buy shoes, where is it?
Gettry
Harajuku is a casual Japanese style that is spreading. With little saggy clothes, dyed hair, and of course, sneakers, Harajuku style became an idol in Japan. And Gettry shoe store is one of the shoe stores that try to combine how brands like Nike, Adidas, or Reebok are suitable for use with Harajuku style.
Chapter World
Next is Chapter World, which is also in the Jingumae area, my Shibuya. This shop is more like a small grocery shop but has goods that you shouldn’t underestimate. Because here, almost all shoes from the latest models to old models are sold. Some sneakerheads (sneaker hunters) from abroad sometimes are willing to come all the way to stop by this shop.
Kicks. Lab
Jordan fans from all over the world are familiar with Kicks stores. The lab is still in the same complex as the stores above. Kicks. Lab is one of the shoe stores that have the rarest collection of Jordan shoes. Besides Jordan, there are brands like Supreme, UNDEFEATED, or NEIGHBORHOOD that have the prestige of not being inferior to other famous brands.
A + S
Its real name is Architecture & Sneakers, then abbreviated as A + S. This shop is located in Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, downtown Tokyo. The place might not be like a shoe store in general, because the interior design is very luxurious. But make no mistake, because this A + S is the mecca of streetwear in Japan. Many Japanese artists buy goods from this shop.
7 Famous and Good Traditional Japanese Gifts
Shane | August 29, 2019 | 35
A vacation to European land has perhaps become the dream of the majority of Indonesian people.
But please note that some others do not want to wander far away to other countries. Like Korea and Japan, the country which is still incorporated into the Asian plains has turned out to be a vacation destination awaited by several other Indonesian citizens.
When on vacation to Japan, make sure you have made a Japanese food arrangement that you will try. Besides, it should not be forgotten to prepare a special amount of money to make purchases of familiar souvenirs that are unique and strange. If you are confused about what you want to buy, here will Irukajirushi.com help you choose good, cheap and funny Japanese souvenirs.
Kendama
Kendama is a traditional game from Japan by using a stick that has three bowls of opposite size, and there is a ball that will be inserted into the bowl with the tips. Although it is mentioned traditionally because it has existed since 1777 until now there are still not a few enthusiasts.
Kendama is used as an education in elementary schools, and it felt like a sport. The sport element in this good Japanese souvenir is because the technique of playing kendama creates an active hand in motion, and is very suitable when done indoors or outdoors. Also, the argument for teaching in schools is because in playing kendama, it will train the focus and perseverance of all students.
When putting the ball into the bowl is not an easy thing, to the point that it must prepare a high focus and be diligent in doing so. Because of its popularity, there has been no small competition in the country so far and has even been followed by many countries.
Kokeshi
Kokeshi are dolls created using wood that have a face and body format but often do not have legs because the bottom is arranged flat. Its body shape is unique because it forms a tube without any hands if there is a hand the process of painting only creates it.
Kokeshi has been around since the Edo period, which began in the 1600s which is known in the Tohoku district of the northern tip of the island of Honshu. In the past to create a kokeshi format, craftsmen had to create all limbs with a lathe. But now, the use of a lathe can be done solely on the body, or just the head.
To complement the expression and clothes used, the typical Japanese souvenir that has the name kokeshi must be given the final touch by painting her face so that it looks alive, as well as for her hair and clothes. The result is a sophisticated doll that can be displayed on a table to beautify the room.
Koinobori
Koinobori is a type of flag but has a koi fish emblem which will later be displayed on a stick like a state flag. The purpose of the use of koi on the flag is because koi fish has a powerful force against the current so that children can be like koi fish, which is healthy, strong, and successful. In fact, in Japan, there is a Koinobori folk party to commemorate the fall of children’s day.
Until now the people’s party is still being carried out because it has good intentions for the development of children, especially men. For the colors of the koi on the flags of various kinds with a variety of different purposes as well. For example, the black color that is reflected by the father in the family, then the red that depicts ancient boys, and there are also green and blue to describe other boys. Koi frequently being used as a lucky symbol in gambling or Casino places, to gives relaxing feels when visitors doing gambling.
Kabuki Mask
Kabuki is a kind of theater demonstration that has existed since ancient times, which is around 1603. Its history is when there was a dramatic play performed by Okuni, he dressed as easily as a man with surprising movements when the demonstration took place. Because of its uniqueness, the dance carried by Okuni spread quickly, and not a few were imitating it. Even comfort women also danced when invited by all the authorities.
To bring this dance, the person who plays it must wear a Kabuki mask. So if you go to Japan, there’s no harm in buying a kabuki mask because it has a long history. Moreover, this plain mask can be used as a collection item, as well as for performing arts or events at school, even for those that can be used when photographs or scare friends.
Gamaguchi
Gamaguchi is the contents of a coin bag created by the body knitted technique. Then there are stirrup bag contents that make it unique. Most of the shape is widened in the middle element, to the point that it looks fat and the lower and upper elements are slimmer with the stirrup attached above to open and block the wallet.
To beautify the look of the wallet, often given accessories according to the will or increase knitting by arranging flowers. The material for making the contents of this bag is Poly Cherry yarn which can be chosen as the color they want, then there is a hook or alias knitting needle, and finally stirrup wallet.
Besides, a sewing machine is also needed to sew the fabric that is being knitted. For those who want to make it, you must know the knitting technique and attach the stirrup to the knitting results that are known to require patience. If you can’t, there is nothing wrong with buying it as a souvenir from Japan when you go to the country where the sun comes out.
Daruma
Daruma is a doll that can be used as a nearly round-shaped game because, in the front, there is a face that is created more protrudes behind. The form of daruma is Bodhidharma because the origin of this doll is inseparable from the heaviest okiagari koboshi puppets so that when tilted it will return upright.
Because of this affair, the daruma puppet was associated with a rigid Bodhidharma who meditated facing the Shaolin monastery for about nine years. But now Daruma was created with an empty depth, to the point that it would be easy to be transported everywhere, specially brought to Indonesia as souvenirs typical of Japan for women. Daruma has red color in almost all parts, except for the face elements that are painted to make up the face.
The giving of red is caused to be the same color as Bodhidharma’s clothing and illustrates the power to reject reinforcements. The game that is familiar with using daruma is Daruma otoshi, which is a game that puts daruma on top of a piece of wood. The way to play is to hit the wood earlier, but with the criteria, do not drop daruma.
Furin
Furin is a hanging bell that will ring when blown by typical winds from Japan. To find a melodious sound without blowing it, you have to hang it in front of the residence or garden so that later, when there is a passing wind, furin will shake and make a sound.
In addition to giving up melodious sounds, souvenirs typical of Japan for boys or children are also decorations in residences and parks. In addition to these in other variants, there are also papers with certain articles hanging below, which can be written to anything. Materials to make it diverse, ranging from glass, wood, stone, leather, bamboo, and different materials that can produce sound.
The forms of furin are also diverse; in fact, there are millions of formats up to now that are hung in front of the house. Even in Japan in one house can have more than one furin. For those created from glass, usually in the side elements, there are unique motifs, starting from the leaves and koi fish. For beautifying, the elements of the rope are given decorations such as fish and others
Japanese Unique Sandals: Zori
Shane | July 6, 2019 | 128
These Japanese flip-flops turn out to be elements of the richest and most interesting culture you know. Japan is one of the countries that become a world tourist destination because the country is the most beautiful. Also, Japan is rich in the traditions and cultures of the unique relics of the past, one of which is in the affairs of Fashion. Do you know traditional Japanese sandals made from rice straw or plant fiber? Yes, the name of the shoe is Zori. Zori is Japanese sandals in the flat and frayed design created from rice straw or other plant fibers.
Also, there are zori created from fabric, lacquered wood, leather, or even synthetic materials. Zori was most popular in his time to the point that during World War II many countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United States created imitations of these sandals, but with the basic ingredients of rubber and are known by different names. In the 1950s the zori-making factory in Japan concluded to work on exporting zori with rubber material to accommodate Westerners’ feet.
Zori has a flat design, and there are no ‘teeth’ underneath (supporting pieces of wood attached to the soles of sandals). Meanwhile, at the top of the Zori sandals, there is a hook for the location of the toes called ‘Hanao’ which is created from fabric. When wearing it, Hanao will isolate the thumb from the other finger.
In addition to Zori, there are also other typical Japanese sandals known as Geta. Geta is a traditional Japanese scandal that has existed since 1970. The uniqueness of geta sandals is the distinctive sound of ‘klotak klotak’ which is often issued when used. Geta is a famous wooden slipper mainly because of the “teeth” that will come in direct contact with the ground when used walking.
Although rare, some gums do not have ‘teeth’ but are both created from wood, known as Pokkuri geta. Pokkuri Geta has a footprint that was created thick and is commonly used by Maiko (the term for beginner Geisha) as well as all the girls for the Sichi Go San event.
Zori is commonly used when wearing Japanese formal kimono clothes, and the surface elements are often coated with leather, cloth, or vinyl. In ancient times, not a few people use ‘wara zori’ (zori sandals) created from woven straw. Before the design of shoes became popular, during this time, the farmers weaved their sandals in residence called “waraji” and were used as footwear when working.
Zori also has a variety of designs that suit your needs. Zori women who are used to work are always created big on the heels with rounded soles, to the point that they are more like ordinary sandals. Meanwhile, for zori men, created a little round and flat. For marriages, zori women want to use ornate brocade and combined with kimono.
At first, GETA was not designed for fashion needs. Instead, geta is used with a destination to facilitate mobilization when they have to wear kimono. Kimono usually has a format that extends and hangs up to the ankles, therefore, by using geta, kimono will not be dragged by mud or snow
In modern times, geta is often used when wearing a yukata. This is felt like a symbol of summer folk parties and summer fireworks folk parties. Sushi traders and chefs traditionally wear the highest geta to guard the distance between them and the leftovers on the floor. Sometimes these people even use gums that have only one tooth (positioned right in the middle of the sole of the shoe) called tengu-geta.
Even though it is a little contradictory to the design of the sandal, the technique of using zori and geta remains the same as ordinary beach sandals. But for those of you who aren’t used to it, of course, it will be seen that the most difficult to get transported goes. This assumption is not wrong, because it takes a little practice before finally, all young Japanese women can take place using the geta.
Well, that is not a lot of reviews related to Zori and Geta, if you are on or going on a trip to Japan, Zori and Geta can be an appropriate option for souvenirs typical of the land of sakura.
9 Kinds of Footwear in Japan
Shane | June 3, 2019 | 40
Footwear is one thing that can not be separated from human life.
Barefoot, on the way, our feet can be hurt by rocks and foreign objects. Not only that but now, footwear also plays an important role as a fashion style in our lives. Well, let’s see what kind of footwear in Japan are:
Kutsu – Shoes
As we know, shoes are footwear that is used to protect feet from the toes to the heels and insteps. Shoes based on their function are divided into four main categories, namely: formal shoes (for school, work, and other official events), casual (for walks), dance (specifically for dancing), and sports (specifically for sports).
Geta
Geta is traditional Japanese footwear made of wood. Geta consists of 3 parts, namely the palm peregialas, the teeth (ha) and cloth clamps (hanao). Geta is usually used when events are informal or only used when traveling in ancient times. In Japan now it is still often used. In Indonesia, we know the name of clogs (or Kelompen ??: D) yes The difference is in the model and parts.
Heyabaki / Surippa
Heyabaki is footwear specifically used in the home. The shape is thin and usually made of the same feathers as a towel. The habit of using heyabaki since Europeans entered Japan, this is because before Japanese people in ancient times did not use footwear in the house. Also known as the surippa from the English word slipper. If you come to a Japanese home, you will be invited to enter by using surippa for guests in the pool house.
Uwabaki
Special shoes used in the school area. Schools from kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and high school in Japan almost all use uwabaki when entering school buildings. Initially, they came to school in school shoes from home, when they entered the building, they exchanged it for uwabaki which the school had provided in the shoe storage locker. The use of uwabaki in the area of the school building aims to maintain the cleanliness of the school building.
Room Boots
Room Boots or room boots have the same function as heyabaki / surippa. It’s just the difference between room boots and winter boots. Footwear is used to keep feet warm in winter.
Zouri
Referred to as traditional Japanese sandals. In contrast to geta, which cannot be used for official events, the use of zouri can be used for ordinary walks or official events. Zouri is worn when the Japanese use kimono. Usually used by girls.
Waraji
Footwear made of straw. Widely used when people will travel far. Waraji has straps to tie around the ankles, so they don’t come off easily. Samurai also use this footwear most often. It’s rarely used.
Setta
Rectangular footwear, formed of straw, and under the base, there is a layer of cowhide. The shape is similar to waraji. Only the difference is there is no rope to tie. Usually used by guys. Until now it is still often used by Japanese people.
Tageda
The last is tageda. Tageda is a type of geta that was used by farmers when rice fields. In this era, it is no longer used, you will find it in museums.
Traditional Japanese Fashion: Full Breakdown
Shane | May 1, 2019 | 676
Japan is one of the countries that maintain their culture.
No wonder that even now you will easily find people who wear traditional clothing while walking in Japan. Here are some of them:
Kimono
Until the 1850s, kimonos were the everyday clothing of Japanese society. But since Japan began to open up to the outside world, the army started to adopt Western clothing styles that continue to grow until now. In modern times kimono is better known as formal wear.
Hakama
Hakama is clothing that is worn outside of a kimono that looks like large fold pants or a skirt depending on the style.
Hakama is traditionally a man’s attire. Formerly the craftsmen, farmers, students, and samurai used hakama with a different style. Today, women are also using hakama. It is usually used for martial arts activities or formal wear.
Obi
Obi has an ornate decoration that is wrapped around the waist of a kentia using a kimono. The price is usually as expensive as another layer of kimono.
Yukata
Yukata are usually famous as clothing that is widely used during the summer, especially when attending hanami events (seeing cherry blossoms) or other festivals. Even though it’s not the same as a kimono, it has a similar feel.
Happi
Happi is a cotton vest that looks like a robe that is usually used as a team uniform at a festival. Usually used together with a matching headband.
Furisode
Furisode is a kimono with very long arms that are usually worn by adult singled women at maturity ceremonies.
Nagarjuna
Nagarjuna is a rope worn under the kimono. Commonly known as deep kimono.
Tabi
Tabi is formal socks worn when wearing traditional sandals such as geta, zori, and okobo. Tabi has a unique shape in the form of a toe part that is separated from the other four toes and has a curved shape on the back.
Jikatabi
JIkatabi are boots shaped like tabi. Many are used by workers who work a lot outside, such as farmers or construction workers.
Zori
Zori is one of the traditional Japanese sandals, which is very formal.
Geta
Geta is another type of traditional high slipper and usually works so that the kimono is not exposed to snow, rain, or other impurities.
Okobo
Okobo is another type of traditional sandal made of box-shaped wood with straps on top. Usually not painted in any color or just lacquered in black.
Hiyoku
Hiyoku is a kimono strap worn under the outer kimono strap. Based on history, the number of layers can reach 20 layers for formal events and five layers to keep yourself warm. The kimono layer used to have a specific meaning, but now it has become a lost art.
Kanzashi
Kanzashi is a hair ornament used in traditional Japanese hairstyles, one of which is the Maiko hairstyle. Usually has a variety of variations according to the season or type of event to be attended. Based on history, the inside of kanzashi was deliberately made sharp so that it could be used to defend oneself.
Uchikake
Uchikake is a rope used on the outside of a bridal kimono that functions as a coat. Usually red and illustrated by a crane. In Japan, cranes are known as birds that can live to be 1000 years old and are also a symbol of the fortune of marriage. But now brides prefer to use white uchikake.
Fundoshi
Fundoshi is a kind of men’s “waist cloth” that has historically been known as men’s underwear. Another history also says that fundoshi is often used as a substitute for shorts by workers and wheelchair drivers. Now fundoshi is usually used by men when attending festivals that require strength and endurance.
Japanese Traditional Footwear: Geta
Shane | April 7, 2019 | 523
If you visit a traditional festival in Japan and see Japanese people wearing kimono, you will also be seen using unique wooden footwear called Geta.
Geta resembles two clogs or flip-flops. They are a kind of sandal with a wooden base that is quite high then on top. There is a cloth clamp. Usually, Geta are worn with traditional clothing such as kimono and yukata. And also sometimes used during winter/rain, because of its high support shape it is often heard steps of people who use these traditional Japanese sandals.
Japanese Cultural Traditions – If you visit a traditional festival in Japan and see Japanese people who use kimono must also be seen using unique wooden footwear called Geta, Geta is a form of traditional Japanese shoes which resembles both clogs or flip-flops. They are a kind of sandal with a wooden base that is quite high then on top. There is a cloth clamp. They are worn in traditional Japanese clothing such as kimono or yukata. Sometimes the sap is used in rain or snow to keep feet dry, because of its high support shape it is often heard steps of people who use these traditional Japanese sandals.
In its simplest form, Geta is a thick wooden sandal which is supported by the two logs below. The bottom of the wood is called teeth (ha). Walking with a single or only one tooth is an effort to train balance, but most modern gums now have two teeth at the bottom, so it is far more practical and balanced.
Geta is not very formal. They are usually worn with yukata with bare feet without wearing socks. You will see many people use these traditional sandals in the summer of Matsuri and fireworks. Geta sandals are not as often as Zori sandals that are commonly used with Kimono and tabi socks. There is a unique geta called Tetsu Geta which is an iron version of the normal geta which weighs 3 to 5 kilograms. They have historically been used by martial arts students such as karate to strengthen legs.
The sound of the steps created by the Geta sandals is very characteristic, and the Japanese people call it “Karankoron” and many parents in Japan who hear this sound like returning to nostalgia when they were young. Breaking the rope in Geta is a bad thing according to the principles of the ancients. Therefore, many Japanese people avoid Geta at low prices or poor quality.