Why Japan has a different day for left-handers

February 10th is Left‑Handed Goods Day 左利きグッズの日 in Japan, and honestly, it’s one of those quirky anniversaries that makes you appreciate how much everyday life is designed for right‑handers. The date comes from a cute bit of wordplay on the date 2/10: レ(0)・フ(2)・ト(10) — “left.”

Originally, this day was simply “Left‑Handers Day,” created in 2001 by the Japan Southpaw Club. But because "International Left-handers Day" falls on August 13th, right in the middle of Obon when events are hard to organize, Japan shifted the celebration to February. In 2009, the focus expanded and the name officially changed to Left‑Handed Goods Day, thanks to a company in Sagamihara that specializes in left‑handed products.

This anniversary highlights the everyday struggles left‑handers face — scissors that don’t cut, rulers with numbers running the wrong way, can openers that feel like puzzles. To help, companies now offer left‑handed versions of almost everything: kitchen tools, stationery, even guitars and computer mice. With only about 10% of the world being left‑handed, it’s a reminder that thoughtful design can make a huge difference. And in true Japanese fashion, there’s even a commemorative day to celebrate it.