Chapter 1: The Significance of Slippers in East Asia

In regions like Taiwan and Japan, slippers are not merely a form of footwear; they hold a central place in everyday routines. Slippers in Japan, in particular, boast a rich history and cultural importance that highlight their journey from a simple necessity to a representation of societal customs and etiquette.

According to research by Japanese folklorist Takechi Kunihiko, the introduction of slippers in Japan occurred relatively recently, around the early Meiji era (circa 1870). The first slippers were crafted by Tokujiro Tokuno, a tailor based in Tokyo, who responded to a unique challenge posed by Western visitors. As Japan began engaging with the West at the close of the Edo period, many Western guests were unaccustomed to the practice of removing their shoes before entering traditional tatami rooms, creating unease for their Japanese hosts. To solve this dilemma, a long-term foreign resident commissioned Tokuno to design a "shoe for a shoe"—a soft covering that could be worn over standard footwear. This innovation marked the inception of the Japanese slipper.

By 1873, the Regal Shoe Company, originally known as Ise Katsu Boot Yard, showcased a specialized "indoor boot" aimed at affluent urban dwellers in Western-style homes. This indoor slipper quickly gained traction in Japan. The 1930s saw slippers become a staple in daily life, spurred by advancements in sewing technology that enhanced production capabilities. Although World War II disrupted the supply chain, the 1950s experienced a revival of slippers, aided by new materials like sponge and rubber.

It's essential to recognize that slippers are not an invention exclusive to Japan. As noted by fashion historian Yoshihiko Tsujimoto, similar types of footwear have existed since ancient Egypt, and the word "slipper" appeared in English dictionaries as early as 1399. The Northampton Museum in England suggests that Meiji-era Japanese slippers bear little difference from British counterparts from the 14th century. However, the cultural connection to slippers diverges. In British culture, wearing slippers indoors is not a requirement, while in Japan, this practice is formalized, establishing a clear distinction between the "inside" and "outside" of a home.

According to Yasuyuki Kurita, an Honorary Professor at the National Museum of Ethnology, this distinction stems from a Japanese cultural inclination to keep outdoor impurities from entering the home. Within this framework, slippers have come to symbolize a cultural norm, representing the transition between external and internal spaces. This practice resonates with the historical use of "tabi" (traditional Japanese socks), particularly in autumn and winter for added warmth.

Today, this tradition has expanded to other East Asian nations, including Taiwan, and some airlines even provide slippers on flights headed to Japan. Since 2020, countries such as Sweden have also begun to adopt the practice of using indoor slippers.

While pinpointing the origins of slippers to a single nation proves difficult, Japan undeniably has been influential in the modern narrative of this humble footwear, transforming it into a cultural icon with extensive implications.

By examining the evolution of slippers, we gain insight into a unique cultural practice and a perspective on how globalization and innovation influence even the simplest aspects of daily life. The narrative of the slipper is, in many respects, a reflection of shifting cultural norms and a testament to Japan's influence on global lifestyle trends.

The video titled "Slippers in Japan | Slippermania" delves into the rich cultural significance of slippers within Japanese society, exploring their historical evolution and modern-day relevance.

Section 1.1: Historical Context of Slippers

The journey of slippers in Japan is intertwined with the nation's opening to Western influence. Tokujiro Tokuno's innovative design addressed a pressing need for Western visitors who faced discomfort in traditional homes.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Evolution of Indoor Footwear

Chapter 2: The Global Influence of Slippers

As the tradition of wearing slippers spreads beyond Japan, it highlights the interconnectedness of global cultures and the evolving nature of daily practices.