The Legacy of “Tengu” – A Prestigious Footwear Brand from Osaka, Now a Rare Treasure
During our research, we uncovered a surprising truth.
The zori and geta we currently carry were made by Tengu, once one of the most prestigious traditional footwear brands in Osaka. In its heyday, Tengu stood shoulder to shoulder with another iconic store, Okisou, both of which were known for their unparalleled craftsmanship and elegance.
However, both of these legendary shops have since gone out of business, and their products are now extremely rare in the market.
The pieces we have in stock are authentic items from the 1960s, complete with their original boxes. On the soles of the geta, you’ll find the Tengu metal plate, serving as unmistakable proof of their origin.
Further research revealed that Tengu was even designated as a purveyor to the Imperial Household. The fact that members of the Japanese royal family once wore these shoes adds an extraordinary level of value and prestige.
A Family Heritage of Elegance
Interestingly, my family home still holds a wide collection of similar geta, zori, and traditional kimono. One of my ancestors was connected to the traditional performing arts world (the karyūkai), which explains why our drawers are filled with rare and beautiful pieces of Japanese heritage.
We’ll gradually be listing more of these hidden gems in our store—so stay tuned and don’t miss out!
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