YAMATOKOBO, the original zori sandal brand of Nara-based Sakagawa Co., Ltd. (founded 1957), has released a new line of sandals dyed with Kyoto-grown Uji matcha. The "Uji Matcha-Dyed Zori" went on sale on April 7, 2026.
Product Features
① Dyed with Kyoto-Grown Uji Matcha
The upper is made from a cotton-linen blend fabric dyed with aromatic Uji matcha from Kyoto Prefecture. The muted, natural tones characteristic of matcha give the sandals an understated elegance. Naturally derived compounds found in matcha are also expected to help keep the sandals fresh with regular use.
② Antibacterial Performance
The Uji matcha-dyed fabric has been tested by an independent third-party laboratory and confirmed to demonstrate antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. An antibacterial activity value of 2.0 or higher indicates antibacterial efficacy, and the fabric meets this threshold, making the sandals suitable for everyday use.
③ Thong Made from Ojiya Chijimi
The hanao (thong) is crafted from Ojiya Chijimi, a premium ramie fabric produced in and around Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture. The fabric's distinctive texture is created by applying a strong twist to the weft threads, then finishing with hot-water kneading to produce a fine, raised surface. This unique construction prevents the fabric from clinging to skin, resulting in a cool and comfortable feel. Ojiya Chijimi is registered as a National Important Intangible Cultural Property and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and is considered one of Japan's most celebrated summer textile materials.
Product Details
Name: Uji Matcha-Dyed Zori
Upper: Cotton-linen (Uji matcha-dyed)
Thong: Ramie (Ojiya Chijimi)
H507 – Ladies
- Price: ¥12,650 (tax included)
- Sole: Cork + synthetic rubber (gray)
- Sizes: M (23–23.5 cm), L (24.5–25 cm)
H508 – Men's
- Price: ¥12,980 (tax included)
- Sole: Cork + synthetic rubber (brown)
- Sizes: S (25–25.5 cm), L (26–26.5 cm), LL (27–27.5 cm)
About YAMATOKOBO
YAMATOKOBO (大和工房) is an original zori sandal brand that carries on the traditional techniques of Japanese sandal making. Zori are said to have been conceived by the founder of the tea ceremony, Sen no Rikyu, and remain one of Japan's most iconic forms of footwear. YAMATOKOBO's sandals draw on the quality of Japanese materials while incorporating modern, functional designs that work equally well with traditional Japanese dress and casual Western-style outfits — classic yet contemporary, crafted one pair at a time by Japanese artisans in Nara.
