#Japan #Randoseru #Kashihara #Kabankobo Yamamoto #Factory Tour

A Unique Experience in Randoseru Selection

In recent years, Kabankobo Yamamoto, located in Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, has transformed the traditional method of choosing randoseru (Japanese school bags) into a memorable experience that combines learning, feeling, and participating. The factory adjacent to their Nara flagship store is now a popular destination for families, allowing them to observe the crafting process of randoseru firsthand. This innovative approach has resulted in record attendance and satisfaction scores, with projections showing that around 6,000 families are expected to visit in 2025.

A Growing Interest in Factory Tours

The trend of combining randoseru selection with factory tours has gained immense popularity. Families, not just from Nara, but all over Japan, are increasingly making trips to the store specifically to experience this unique opportunity. The factory tours allow visitors to engage with the craftsmen, learn about their techniques, and gain insights into the entire process, making randoseru selection not just a purchase but a journey filled with discovery.

Visitor Trends and Satisfaction Scores

Based on a survey conducted from January to May 2025, an impressive 96% of participants reported that they enjoyed their visit. Many expressed how witnessing the crafting process enriched their understanding and appreciation of the randoseru.

“I loved being able to observe how the bags are made and see the care that goes into each piece,” shared one attendee. Children, too, are more likely to form attachments to their randoseru when they can see the craftsmanship behind them, enhancing the sentimental value of these bags that they will use for six years.

A Commitment to Openness and Excellence

For over 40 years, Kabankobo Yamamoto has welcomed local school groups for educational visits, driven by the philosophy of transparency in craftsmanship. The current chairman, Kazuhiko Yamamoto, believes that it's essential for customers to understand where their products come from and how they’re made. The bright, welcoming atmosphere of the factory, coupled with the friendly interaction with skilled artisans, fosters a strong sense of community and trust in their brand.

Innovative Design for Family Engagement

To further enhance the factory tour experience, Kabankobo Yamamoto has implemented various engaging features. A dedicated webpage, "Randoseru Factory Tour Experience," has been created on their official site. Inside the factory, there are fun photo spots and a stamp rally, making it a delightful outing for children. Guests are free to take photos, which they often share on social media, extending the reach of this unique experience.

Preparing for International Visitors

While the majority of visitors currently come from within Japan, Kabankobo Yamamoto plans to welcome international guests in the future. They aim to adapt their offerings to cater to tourists interested in experiencing Japanese culture and craftsmanship.

“We want foreigners to appreciate our randoseru culture and the artisanship that goes into each bag,” they state, anticipating the value that factory tours can provide in a global context.

A Lasting Connection with Randoseru

Ultimately, randoseru selection at Kabankobo Yamamoto is about creating a deep connection between children and their bags from the very beginning. By involving families in the selection process and providing an enriching experience, they believe children will cherish their bags throughout their school years. From observing artisans at work to selecting materials together as a family, this personalized approach marks a new chapter in randoseru shopping.

For more information about the randoseru collection, visit Kabankobo Yamamoto's Official Website. Additionally, inquiries can be directed to their customer service at [email protected].