As winter approaches, many of us find ourselves struggling with cold hands and feet.
In Japan, the concept of yojo—a traditional approach to maintaining health—has long been rooted in daily life. Central to this way of thinking is the idea that the body should be warmed from the feet up.
In this article, we explore how to choose the right socks to face winter’s chill, while touching on Japan’s culture of wellness and self-care.
We also take a closer look at Yamaya, a sock maker with over 100 years of craftsmanship in Nara—Japan’s leading sock-producing region—and its brand, yahae.
|
Contents |
1. Winter Cold and Japan’s Wellness Culture
In traditional Japanese wellness philosophy, living in harmony with the changing seasons has always been considered essential.
Winter is known as the season of “storage,” a time to conserve heat and energy within the body, slow down, and stay warm.
Coldness is often said to be the root of many ailments, contributing to poor circulation and fatigue.
Incorporating simple, everyday ways to protect yourself from the cold is a form of wellness well suited to modern life.
2. Warming the Body from the Feet
The feet are the farthest part of the body from the heart, making them especially prone to feeling cold.
That is why socks play such an important role in winter dressing.
Socks made from natural materials help retain body heat while preventing excess moisture.
Because they come into direct contact with the skin, the quality of the material and the knitting technique greatly influence both warmth and comfort.
3. The Craft of Sock Making — Yamaya
Yamaya Co., Ltd. has been dedicated to sock making for over 100 years in Koryo Town, Nara Prefecture—widely known as Japan’s leading sock-producing region.
With roots in the cotton trade of the Edo period, the company evolved alongside the times into a sock manufacturer.
By fully embracing the characteristics of natural materials, Yamaya continues to pursue the ideal comfort for each season.
Dedication to Socks
Socks are an intimate garment that touches the skin directly, yet they are also visible as part of one’s outfit.
To achieve both functionality and beauty, the maker’s dedication is essential.
Yamaya’s approach to sock making is rooted in the same care as knitting a scarf by hand for someone dear.
Though industrially produced, each pair reflects a human touch and attentive craftsmanship.
4. The yahae Brand
yahae takes its name from “Yahee,” the founder of Yamaya’s original cotton business.
Established in 2020, the brand builds on this heritage while proposing socks that fit naturally into contemporary life.
At the heart of yahae is the maker’s passion for socks.
High-quality materials, skilled craftsmanship, and creativity come together to carefully create each pair.
5. Socks to Choose This Winter
yahae offers two distinct lines: kan, a premium line devoted to natural materials, and sui, which balances color, comfort, and functionality.
kan | 閑
“Kan” represents quietness and a sense of calm.
All socks in this line are made using natural materials and dyes, highlighting the inherent beauty of the fibers.
Made with yarn spun using Japan’s traditional garabou method and gently knitted with minimal pressure.
With a rich, towel-like texture, these socks softly wrap your feet in comfort.
View Product →
sui | 翠
“Sui” is a light and dynamic line.
It combines fashion-forward design with everyday comfort, adding subtle color to winter outfits.
Low-gauge socks knitted from mohair and organic cotton.
Soft, lightweight, and warmly substantial, they offer a cozy wearing experience.
View Product →
6. Conclusion
Facing the cold of winter is an act of caring for your own body.
The simple habit of keeping your feet warm can bring comfort to everyday life.
Infused with history, technique, and the maker’s dedication, Yamaya’s socks offer more than just warmth.
They quietly enhance the quality of daily living.
To stay healthy through the colder months,
why not choose a pair of socks this winter—for yourself, or for someone special?