What is Randoseru and its history?

Randsel and Randoseru backpacks are exceedingly popular in Japan, where a staggering 90% of elementary schoolchildren rely on them to transport their books. Crafted from premium synthetic leather Clarino, Randoseru exude a sense of sophistication with their lightweight, resilient, and water-resistant design.

According to the Randoseru Association, the heritage of the Japanese school bag commenced at an esteemed educational establishment in Tokyo known as Gakushuin, established in 1877.

Founded on classroom equality, the institute's charter mandated no reliance on family advantage. In 1885, students were forbidden from using horse-drawn carriages or having family employees carry their bags.

To make it easier for students to lug their materials all the way to school, Gakushuin unveiled a military-style knapsack. Unlike typical bags at the time, this one was worn on the back, freeing up the hands. It later became known as the randoseru, derived from the Dutch term for backpack, 'ransel.'

In 1887, Prime Minister Hirobumi Ito gifted a randoseru to Prince Yoshihito, who was starting school at Gakushuin. This event is considered a turning point when the randoseru transitioned from a school uniform accessory to a culturally significant item.

A decade later, Gakushuin created a standardized size and shape for the randoseru. This design has stayed largely the same ever since.