8. Adorable Randoseru Backpacks
Cute yet durable “randoseru” backpacks can be spotted on the backs of Japanese elementary school children as they commute to and from school. Often costing a small fortune, these backpacks are crafted from high-quality materials such as leather, built tough to last all six years of elementary school. Their structured design ensures both comfort and longevity, making them a symbol of childhood in Japan.
Despite their cutesy appearance, randoseru originated as a European-inspired military backpack commonly seen during the Edo period (1603–1868). In fact, the word “randoseru” comes from the Dutch word “ransel,” meaning backpack—a historical nod hidden behind a modern icon of Japanese school life.
