Randoseru, the iconic Japanese backpacks for schoolchildren, are renowned for their durability and timeless appeal. Leather craftsman Noriki Okada has taken this tradition to a new level by creating a randoseru inspired by samurai armor, crafted entirely from scrap leather.
Okada, who works at Nagoya-based manufacturer Murase Kabano, designed this unique piece to make children feel strong and brave. Drawing on the aesthetics of samurai armor, he layered pieces of leather to replicate the intricate structure of armor plates. The sides of the bag feature menacing oni demon faces, a nod to the protective motifs found on traditional samurai gear. Black, red, and brown, classic samurai colors, dominate the design, giving the randoseru a bold, striking look.
This innovative samurai-inspired randoseru earned the Artistic Design Award at the Japan Leather Awards, highlighting its craftsmanship and creative vision. By using only scrap leather from the manufacturing process, Okada also emphasizes sustainability, giving new life to materials that would otherwise go to waste.
While the craftsmanship and artistic detail are undeniably impressive, this randoseru carries a hefty price tag of 500,000 yen (approximately $3,300 USD). Unfortunately, this means it isn’t a practical choice for everyday schoolchildren, but it stands as a stunning example of how traditional aesthetics can merge with modern sustainability.
