Why Japanese kids use this special school bag

Whenever we come across pictures of Japanese school kids, we might have noticed something unique about their school bags.

These sturdy, boxy leather backpacks, called Randoseru, are more than just bags—they are a deep-rooted part of Japanese culture and tradition.

Unlike regular school bags, these are built to last for six years of elementary school and beyond. But why do Japanese children still carry these traditional backpacks?

Randoseru isn’t just a trendy school accessory—it dates back to the Meiji era (1868-1912), when Japan was modernizing its education system. The design was inspired by military backpacks from the Netherlands, and over time, it became a symbol of discipline, unity, and education. Today, this bag is a must-have for first graders across Japan.

In Japan, the randoseru is more than just a schoolbag; it’s a symbol of accomplishment. It symbolises a child’s entry into the school system and marks the start of their educational journey. Parents and grandparents frequently purchase these bags as unique gifts, sometimes even a year before school begins. The bags are pricey, with high-quality leather versions costing roughly 60,000 yen ($380) or more, which is equivalent to more than INR 30,000. However, the longevity and sentimental value justify the price. Many youngsters save their randoseru as a keepsake after graduating from elementary school!

Unlike flimsy school bags that tear apart in a year or two, a randoseru is designed to last through six years of daily use. It is made with thick leather or synthetic material, making it extremely sturdy.

Though the average weight of an empty randoseru is about 3 pounds (1.4 kg), it often gets a little heavier once filled with textbooks, lunch boxes, and supplies. Since most Japanese schools don’t have personal lockers, students carry everything they need between home and school every day. While some argue that it’s too heavy for small children, Japan values endurance and resilience, which is why the tradition still continues.

In addition to carrying school supplies, the randoseru has a special safety feature: it can be used to shield heads in the event of an earthquake. Because earthquakes occur frequently in Japan, this useful feature gives these school bags even more significance by guaranteeing that kids will have some protection in an emergency.

Originally, randoseru followed a strict colour code—black for boys, red for girls. But, changing times have brought diversity and choice. Today, children can choose from a rainbow of colours, including lavender, blue, green, and even pastel shades! Some bags also come with personalised details like embroidery, cartoon characters, or customised initials. Even though styles have changed, the basic structure of the bag remains the same—a nod to the past while embracing the future.

Randoseru is more than a school bag; it’s a cultural icon that unites generations. Parents who once carried these backpacks now watch their children do the same, reinforcing a shared experience of discipline, education, and tradition.

Despite debates about whether the bags should be lighter, the randoseru remains a powerful symbol of Japanese childhood. It’s not just about carrying books—it’s about carrying history, strength, and a piece of Japan’s identity.