Kakogawa City in Hyogo Prefecture is known as one of Japan's three major sock-producing regions, alongside Nara Prefecture and Tokyo. Around 70% of the prefecture's sock manufacturers are concentrated in and around the city. As the new season gets underway, the city is promoting a gifting tradition centered on locally made Kakogawa socks ahead of Mother's Day (May 10) and Father's Day (June 21), under a campaign called "Kutsushita Age Age" (roughly translated as "Socks Lift Your Spirits").
Why Kakogawa Socks Are Chosen as Gifts
1. The "Kutsushita Age Age Campaign" and Its Heartfelt Origins
This initiative traces back to a proposal by students at Kakogawa East High School, who wanted to "spread a culture of giving Kakogawa socks on days of family appreciation." The concept centers on a positive cycle: giving socks brings joy to the recipient, and seeing that joy in turn lifts the spirits of the giver. The students' genuine wish to express gratitude to family aligned naturally with the spirit of Mother's Day and Father's Day, helping this gifting custom take root as a warm local tradition.
2. Reliable Quality from a Trusted Production Region
Hyogo Prefecture is one of Japan's three major sock-producing regions, and Kakogawa City is home to roughly 70% of the prefecture's manufacturers. Skilled craftspeople have refined their knitting techniques over generations, achieving a soft, comfortable fit and lasting durability. Kakogawa socks have developed a strong reputation as a practical, thoughtful gift—something that communicates genuine care through quality in an everyday item.
3. Over 130 Years of Tradition and Innovation
Sock production in Kakogawa began in 1886 (Meiji 19), when a resident of Shikatacho brought back a hand-cranked sock-knitting machine from Shanghai. What started as a side income for farming households grew into one of the Harima region's leading industries, driven by the introduction of automatic knitting machines during the Taisho era. More than 130 years of continuous refinement give Kakogawa socks a history that lends both trust and story to any gift.
City-Wide Support for the Local Industry
Kakogawa City has rolled out a range of activities to raise the profile of its signature product.
Kakogawa Socks Take Over Station Signboards
Billboards around JR Kakogawa Station, nearby commercial facilities, and public buildings have been used for large-scale Kakogawa socks promotions, building brand recognition across the city.
"Kakogawa Kutsushita Special" Horse Race
In partnership with the Hyogo Prefectural Horse Racing Association, a sponsored race was held under the Kakogawa socks name. Promotional videos were broadcast on in-venue monitors, spreading the message of "Kakogawa, the town of socks" to audiences across the country.
The 29th "Kutsushita Matsuri" (Sock Festival)
Every November, timed to coincide with "Kutsushita no Hi" (Sock Day), a charity event is held featuring direct sales from manufacturers. It has become a beloved annual tradition in the local community.
Booth at the "38th Himeji National Ceramics Fair"
The city has also set up booths at major events outside the region, giving visitors from farther afield the chance to handle Kakogawa-made socks in person and discover the craftsmanship that sets them apart.
