Handmade Japanese Setta Sandals
Step into heritage with handcrafted Japanese setta sandals—where classic meets modern refinement.
What is Setta? 雪駄
Setta are traditional Japanese sandals, known for their refined balance of function and form. Once everyday footwear, they now embody timeless craftsmanship and quiet elegance.
Beyond deer and the Big Buddha, Nara has long been Japan’s footwear capital—once producing over 80% of the nation’s shoes. Today, it remains a center for artisanal setta making.
We proudly present a curated collection from a heritage workshop in Nara, where each pair of setta sandals is handcrafted with premium material.
Japanese Traditional Setta.
Walking through Centuries of Functionality and Style.
Setta sandals date back to the Muromachi period (1336–1573). Originally derived from straw-soled sandals (called Zori) used by monks and travelers, setta was constructed with a leather sole so that the feet will stay dry from rain and snow. Metal taps were also added to prevent slipping. Setta evolved into durable, elegant shoes made for outdoor use.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), setta became a fashion statement among samurai, high-ranking sumo wresters and merchants. Known for their sleek soles and signature sounds, they reflected both function and status. Replacing zori, setta stood out as the choice for street style and utility.
Nara played a key role in refining and preserving setta production. Even today, custom setta remain popular among kabuki actors and sumo wrestlers. These sandals are more than historical—they're a living tradition underfoot.
Photo courtesy:Japan National Diet library.
Merchants and Livelihood of Edo Period. Volume 4 (1690).
"Chara-Chara" チャラチャラ
The hardware known as chara-gane was originally a flat iron plate fitted at the heel—similar to the taps on Western dance shoes. As setta evolved, the signature chari-chari sound remained fashionable, but the flat metal plate proved too slippery for walking. It was eventually replaced with horseshoe-shaped pins.
"Chara-Chara"
One of the most distinct functional features of traditional setta is the metal pin embedded in the sole, named “chara-chara” for the sound it produces. It was added to help prevent slipping when walking in rain and snow. As the wearer walks, these small metal pieces create a clapping sound, once considered stylish and refined in the Edo era.
Policemen used to wear chari-chari setta and used the sound as a way to alert people while patrolling the streets. The phrase “Setta chara-chara” became a cultural reference to this fashionable, unmistakable sound.
Nowadays, this piece of detail has been largely replaced with rubber pads. We proudly continue this legacy by including this horseshoe metal pins in select models— an homage to the days when sound, movement, and style were seamlessly intertwined.
Stride with Class
Handmade Japanese Setta Sandals
Anatomy
Patented off-set "tsubo" position for ergonomic-correct (left-right foot) wear
"Hanao" made with traditional patterns and Japanese fabric foot-strap for cultural-rich aesthetics.
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"Soko"undersole: made with traditional cowhide or durable synthetic rubber
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"Ten"upholstery: Various material (mesh, fabric) for comfort, water-resistance, and style.
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Patented foam cushioning for additional support and comfort.
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Non-slip rubber pads
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Traditional "Chara-chara" horseshoe pins
Nara, Beyond the Big Buddha and the Deer
Setta carries over 400 years of history. It was said to be invented by famous tea ceremony Master Sen no Rikyu (or by an affliate of Rikyu), to be worn when participants have to stride through snowed or rained Japanese gardens to attend tea ceremonies.
Nara’s history of footwear production began in the 17th century, when farmers made straw sandals by hand. As the industry evolved, the city became known for crafting hanao foot straps and various styles of traditional sandals. As post-war modernization led to a decline in demand for setta, many makers shifted to producing Western-style footwear. The shortage of successors has further accelerated the decline of traditional setta production.
Sagakawa, a family-run business based in Nara, is dedicated to sustaining this beautiful Japanese craft by enhancing its quality, detailing, and comfort to suit the modern lifestyle. Each pair of setta is still carefully handcrafted by local artisans—just as it was in generations past.
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