Kikkabo Unveils Kakko: A New Form of Zori Crafted from 20 Years of Shoemaking Philosophy

Based in Kyoto's Nishijin district, Kikkabo—renowned for handcrafting Japanese leather footwear for over two decades—has unveiled its latest creation: 'Kakko (Kakko)', a new type of zori.

Kakko is a product born from a shoemaker's perspective and over 20 years of accumulated craftsmanship, reimagined into a thong-style footwear. While preserving the traditional structure of zori, it has been redesigned with insights from Western clothing, traditional Japanese attire, and fashion, answering the question: 'What is the most natural form for walking?' (Available in two sole types: geta-style and setta-style; thong color customizable upon consultation.)

The Origin of Kakko

Takasuke Nojima, the company's representative, has practiced kendo since childhood—a national sport in Japan—developing a deep sensitivity to the sensation of bare feet touching the ground. This awareness has led him to favor zori in daily life. Guided by the belief that 'thong-style footwear represents the most refined minimalism for outdoor wear,' he has combined 25 years of shoemaking knowledge and technical expertise to create Kakko.

Features of Kakko

- High-Quality Thong Crafted by Specialist Artisans

The thong is made from cowhide by a specialist craftsman dedicated to geta production. Leveraging decades of expertise, it ensures stability and comfort, forming the core of the shoe's exceptional wearability.

- A New Concept: 'Zori with Left and Right Differentiation'

Traditional geta and zori are symmetrical, allowing interchangeable use between feet and accommodating various users—an efficient and practical design. While preserving the excellent core structure of traditional thongs, Kikkabo has reinterpreted the form from a shoemaker’s perspective, introducing left-right asymmetry.

This foot-contoured design delivers natural fit and an elegant silhouette.

- Dual Design Philosophy: Japanese and Western Approaches

By fusing Japanese craftsmanship—emphasizing natural materials and organic forms—with Western shoemaking principles based on skeletal structure and mathematical walking dynamics,

Kakko achieves both superior cushioning and gentle foot contact, reducing strain. It delivers a natural, comfortable fit suitable for daily wear, with strong fashion appeal.

- Repair-Oriented Construction

Designed for longevity, Kakko is built to be repairable. Rather than disposable, it is intended to be cherished and aged gracefully alongside its wearer.

- Product Overview

The sole is crafted from vegetable-tanned leather, available in two shapes: square and round.

Product Name: Kakko

Price: 35,200 JPY (tax included)

Sizes: 22.0 cm to 28.0 cm

With its refined design, Kakko seamlessly complements both traditional Japanese attire and Western clothing, offering a new choice for everyday footwear.

It embodies the dignity and serenity associated with ceremonial dress, while remaining effortlessly integrated into daily life—pursuing the essential presence of footwear.

Worn with SOU・SOU's 'Tegata Kanui' undergarment

Worn with SOU・SOU's 'Fuji' yukata

【About Shoemaker Takasuke Nojima】

Major Awards:

- Kyoto Design Award 2010: 'Mikugutsu' – Selected - Kyoto Design Award 2011: 'Tanshi' – Selected - Japan Leather Award 2017: 'Gomai-zuke' – Selected - K-DESIGN AWARD 2023: 'Chipshin Tabi' – Selected - Japan Leather Award 2023: 'Chipshin Tabi' – Selected - 5th Wash culture Grand Prix: 'Gomai-kawa-dai Tsukiyoru' – Selected - Kyoto Design Award 2025: 'Gaitta (Yonanuki)' – Selected - London Design Award 2025: 'Gaitta (Yonanuki)' – Silver Award - 19th Annual International Design Awards: 'Gaitta (Yonanuki)' – Bronze Award

Major Achievements:

- Featured on NHK WORLD in 2025 - Numerous domestic and international media features - Footwear production and supply for films and TV dramas - Collaborative co-branded products with multiple fashion brands

Official Website: https://kikkabo.info/

International Website: https://kikkabo-overseas.stores.jp/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kikkabo_nojima/

Address: 111-2 Hanakaiin-cho, Omuro-dori Teranouchi-agaru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Phone: 075-414-0121

Representative: Takasuke Nojima