A school staple in Japan: the randoseru

Today, and March 21st annually, is Randoseru Day ランドセルの日 in Japan. It is a day to honor the one school item that (almost) every child in Japan owns. A "randoseru", named for "ransel" a backpack in Dutch, is the distinctive elementary school bag used in Japan, since the Edo period.

Randoseru day is a nostalgic day for many, reminding them of the six years they spent walking to and from school with their sturdy backpack firmly perched on their back. The date of the anniversary carries a clever symbolism; 3, 2, 1 adds up to 6, representing the six years of elementary school. In addition, it also falls in the season of graduation, when families naturally reflect on growth and change, and graduating elementary school children can retire their backpack after six years of service.

The anniversary was established by artisans who transform used randoseru into miniature keepsakes, preserving the memories etched into every scratch and scuff. It is a day to appreciate the durability, craftsmanship, and cultural ties of this uniquely Japanese school item.