2025.06.25

Okinawa’s Locally-Made Sandals Sold for Just a Few Hundred Yen—The History & Allure of "Shima-Zouri"

Copied to Clipboard

*The text-to-speech feature is generated by AI,
so there may be errors in the reading.

You’ll almost always find Shima-zouri in Okinawan souvenir shops. These sandals feature vibrant colors reminiscent of the island’s strong sunlight.

But what kind of history and characteristics do they hold as a fashion item?

We spoke with President Ryoko Yonahara of Okinawa MoonStar, a company with the longest history of selling Shima-zouri in Okinawa and known for offering the “Original Shima-zouri.”

PROFILE

Ryouko Yonahara

MoonStar Company President & CEO

The company plans and wholesales footwear, rainwear, sporting goods, and more. Founded in 1950 as Matsumoto Shoten, reorganized into Matsumoto Shokai in 1956. In 1972, the wholesale and retail divisions separated and the company became the exclusive Okinawa agent for MoonStar, establishing "Okinawa MoonStar" and expanding its business.

The Hidden History of the Okinawan People’s “Soul Shoes”

First of all, “Shima-zouri (島ぞうり) ” refers to thong sandals that Okinawans wear in daily life.

Most are made of rubber or EVA, making them affordable, but some focus on being "MADE IN OKINAWA" and a few are even crafted from genuine leather.

“Because of Okinawa’s hot climate and its proximity to the sea, Shima-zouri are handy footwear that everyone relies on. They’re like ‘soul shoes’—the footwear equivalent of soul food.”

While they are technically flip-flops, people don’t just wear them to the beach or around water; they’re everyday shoes used in all aspects of life, except for business settings.

Copied to Clipboard

CONCEPT VIDEO

"fashion tech news" Unveils New Logo & Concept Video

PICKUP CONTENTS

Delivering content that shares the value of Japanese crafts, linking past to future.

TOP ARTICLES

What Era Does the Clothing in "The Apothecary Diaries" Represent? Exploring the Unseen World of Hanfu

CULTURE

2025.03.19

Tokyo's Only "Grateful Dead" Specialty Shop: Experience the Charm at "Chi Chi's"

CULTURE

2025.02.24

The Ideal Bag for Festival Lovers: The "UNDERTHESUN" Backpack

PHILOSOPHY

2025.06.20

A Parasol that Lifts Your Spirits Just by Holding It: The 100% UV Blocking Umbrella from "Ashiya Rose Blanc" that Doesn't Compromise on Functionality or Aesthetics

RESEARCH

2025.03.20