Clothing: Tatami Sandals

Tatami Sandals

Included in Daily Life box, Visual Arts box

• Description: Tatami sandals (wara-zori, waraji) are made of woven straw. The long straw straps attached to the front of the sandal pass through loops on the sides and heel, and are then tied around the ankle to and fastened to the sole of the foot. There are various types of tatami sandals, varying in shape and material. The sandals are lightweight, cheap to make, and allow nimble footsteps. In the past, they were worn by everyone from lower ranking soldiers, construction workers, commoners and generals.
  For more information, visit: http://web-japan.org/nipponia/nipponia21/en/topic/index02.html

• Links
  • About Tatami Sandals

• Lesson Plans
  • Traditional Japanese Homes: Past and Present
  • Art of Japan

• Standard Reference
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  • Social Studies:
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #3
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #6
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #7