MERI's Revamped Store in Ryogoku: A New Era for Handcrafted Zori

Welcome to MERI's Newly Renovated Store in Ryogoku

On March 26th, a fascinating transformation occurred as MERI, the specialized cloth zori store, unveiled its renovated premises in Ryogoku, Tokyo. For 12 years since its inception in 2014, MERI has been a beloved destination for traditional Japanese footwear, now situated in an area steeped in history and cultural intersection between Edo and the craftsmanship of Sumida.

A Unique Artisan Experience

The new store layout, dominated by shades of gray, sets the perfect backdrop for the 18 different styles of MERI zori – all meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. Each pair exudes a sense of presence, hinting at the countless hours and hands that bring it to life. As stated in the store, “From many hands to your feet,” each zori is the result of a detailed process involving multiple artisans from design to finishing touches.

From Machine to Masterpiece

The history of Meri's craftsmanship is as rich as the product itself. The unique textures and materials used for the zori originate from an antique knitting machine that has been in operation since before the war. This machine has become a vital part of this artistry, producing the specialized cords used for making the sandals.

The Sumida-ku area, once a hub for knit manufacturing, has seen a decline in the number of skilled artisans over the years. Nevertheless, MERI continues to thrive, rooted in a legacy that began in 1948 with their knitting factory. These artisans are dedicated to maintaining local craftsmanship traditions by continuing to use these timeless machines, crafting zori cords from scratch.

The Heart of MERI's Zori

While many fabric zori makers often rely on thin strips of fabric woven into cords, MERI stands apart by knitting the cords themselves. This leads to zori that are uniquely strong yet impressively soft—attributes that define the footwear's unparalleled comfort. MERI utilizes hollow yarn, contributing to the lightweight and breathable nature of their zori materials.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Since the brand’s establishment in 2012, the traditional handmade process remains unchanged. Every zori is still crafted without the use of templates—only the skilled hands of the artisans define each piece. Remarkably, some of these craftsmen still weave over the age of 80, showcasing a commitment that reflects in the thousands of pairs of MERI zori already created.

These handmade zori embody not just craftsmanship but the influence of time and the dedication of artisans over the years. We invite everyone to experience these remarkable pieces at the new store location along Hokusai Street.

Workshop Opportunities

In addition to showcasing their fantastic products, the store also offers workshops focused on making cloth zori. Aimed primarily at inbound tourists, participants from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and worldwide can join in creating their unique pair, cherishing a piece of Japanese culture as a memorable keepsake from their travels.

Find Us

MERI
1-11-8 Kamezawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
1st Floor, Oka Building
070-6986-0708
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (open on holidays)
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The store is conveniently located between the Edo-Tokyo Museum and the Sumida Hokusai Museum, affirming the link with local history.

For online shopping, please visit MERI's Official Online Store.