2024.06.10

From Fishermen's Gear to Everyday Use: The New Possibilities of Gyosan

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Gyosan sandal enthusiasts have gathered various types of gyosan in the online store "Gyosan Net." Although gyosan are typically associated with fishermen, recent years have seen a surge in variations, making them a popular choice for everyday use.

Narutoshi Asou, the manager of "Gyosan Net," was captivated by gyosan sandals, leading him to establish a site dedicated to selling a wide range of them. But how much do we really know about the charm of gyosan? He shared some insights with us.

PROFILE

Narutoshi Asou

Gyosan Net Manager

Before Being Captivated by Gyosan

First, can you tell us about the history of gyosan? When did it start gaining popularity among people outside of fishermen?

Originally, gyosan sandals began production in the late 1960s as a one-piece molded sandal made from PVC resin, mainly in Nara Prefecture. By the 1970s, they were being sold in the Ogasawara Islands. Their reputation for durability, longevity, and slip-resistance made them beloved by island residents.

At that time, they were sold at fishery cooperatives and often worn by those in the fishing industry, which led to the abbreviated name "gyosan" (literally, "fish[ing] san[dals]").