Randoseru

Japanese students' backpacks, randoseru, look quite different from the various styles of backpacks we are accustomed to. Randoseru are made from leather and are very stiff, holding a square-like shape. Nearly all elementary school students use randoseru. Randoseru are very sturdy and long lasting, and they should for the price one pays for them. Randoseru can cost anywhere between 10,000-100,000 yen (approximately $100-$1000). Nowadays, it is very common for grandparents to buy their grandchildren their randoseru for them as a gift, sometimes for birthdays, other times to congratulate their starting of school.

Traditionally, girls used red randoseru and boys used black randoseru, but with different attitudes on gender stereotypes and perhaps fashion, a larger selection of colors of randoseru is now available including various shades of pink, blue, orange, green, brown, and the traditional red and black. Grandparents find joy in being able to take their grandchildren out to the department store and purchasing the backpack of their choosing.

If you want to surprise a loved one back home with a randoseru backpack of their own, ask your tour guide where the nearest department store is to purchase these charming school bags. Some stores may be able to ship your purchases to the airport so you wont need to pack the bag in your luggage, or you can even opt to have the bag shipped home after your vacation ends!