The original motivation for wearing the high platform shoes was not fashion, but practicality: to keep feet and kimono from coming in contact with things on the ground, such as dirt, filth, water, or snow.
Geta are worn much like a beach sandal or flip-flip, with a fabric thong, a hanao, sitting between the wearer's big toe and second toe. Originally geta were created with practicality in mind: their raised design lifting the wearer above dirt, water and even snow.
Zori. Zori are the best choice for kimono, but they can also be worn with yukata. These rounded sandals can be made from vinyl, cork, brocade or any number of modern materials. Traditionally, zori are low but modern styles can have platforms in varying heights.
ZORI sandals are a type of traditional Japanese footwear. Initially they were made of straw and used with Kimono. Nowadays ZORI are made of various materials and they usually have a rubber sole. Zori can be used indoor, with informal wear or as beach sandals.
Geta are more likely to be worn on traditional occasions and for taking photos in kimono outfits, but they can be difficult to walk in.
Since it is traditional in Japan to remove one's shoes when entering most indoor spaces, Zori were easy shoes to slip on and off quickly. Tabi socks would then stay on the feet and could be worn like slippers, keeping the feet warm, comfy, and clean.
The Japanese are well known for their unique way of walking — not heel-to-toe as with bare feet or sneakers, but instead a shuffling motion slides along the ground. Combined with long, flowing kimonos, this gait gives the impression of floating along the ground.
Tabi (or Jikatabi) are traditional Japanese footwear. Tabi literally translates to “foot bag.” Tabi shoes feature a split between the big toe and the rest of the toes to promote flexibility and provide extra security, comfort, and stability.
Japanese culture mandates that people should remove their shoes when entering homes and other buildings, especially where the floors may have rugs, polished wood floors, or tatami. Uwabaki are light, flexible shoes which are easy to slip on and off, designated for indoor use.
Heels: If you want to dress up your kimono look, heels are a great option. Just be careful not to choose something too high or you might look out of proportion. Flats: flats can also work well with kimono jackets, especially if the kimono is on the shorter side.
振袖 (Furi-sode) Furisode is a formal kimono for unmarried women. The special feature of furisode are the long sleeves. It has sleeves almost 1 metre long, and it give the most spectacular impression out of all kimono types.
A trend in recent years has seen women wearing platform sandals, flip-flops, and even sneakers with yukata, so your footwear is entirely up to you!
Wearing geta and zori is said to be good for health, as they aid foot development. The arch of the foot plays an important role when walking, running, and jumping. If not properly developed, feet can tire easily, leading one to trip with a less sure step. Keeping a proper posture could also be affected.
Okobo are simple platform sandals made of a block of wood from a willow tree with straps on top. They are primarily worn by Geisha in training.
: a Japanese wooden clog for outdoor wear.
Proponents of the Japanese sleep system claim many benefits--both health and otherwise--to sleeping on the floor. Among them: Cooler temperatures, since cool air settles to the floor. Better circulation, and reduced back and muscle pain.
The Japanese have a lot of rules regarding footwear. Basically, you are expected to go barefoot in Japan pretty much anywhere inside.
Similarly in Japan, when entering someone's home we greet them and say “Ojama shimasu,” which means 'sorry for intruding or disturbing you. ' This humble greeting shows your gratitude towards your invitation and that you appreciate the trouble the host went through to prepare for your visit.
“Uchimata is a consequence of the shape of the Japanese leg.” He went on to explain that Japanese people have shorter calves than most people, and this makes their toes point inwards.
The toilet slippers are there to make sure your normal indoor slippers don't get wet or dirty, but they also provide a handy signal that someone is currently using the bathroom.
Now, Maison Margiela's Tabi shoe comes in an array of silhouettes and colorways, and is known for its surprisingly comfortable fit — especially when worn with Tabi socks.
Geisha cannot get married. The rule of this profession is “being married to the art, not a man”. If they want to get married, they have to quit the job. Once they quit, it's usually impossible to come back, however they can debut from the beginning in a different city, under a different name and rules.
To inflame a doctor's lust for Sayuri (for the impending bidding war for her virginity), Mameha intentionally cuts Sayuri's leg high on her thigh (off camera). Mameha tells the doctor the cut came from a scissors accident; he stares longingly at her leg before stitching it up.
In Japan, geisha are very highly respected because they spend years training to learn the traditional instruments and dances of Japan. Although some western media portray geisha as prostitutes, that's just a myth.
Also, keep in mind that tatty looking clothing can be frowned upon. Try to wear neat and well-maintained clothing, and keep yourself well-groomed. For example, holes in socks are a big no-no, because you spend lots of time without shoes on – visiting temples, shrines and traditional restaurants etc.