No.41, the Perfect Sized Backpack

September 14, 2026

The No.41 backpack, with its clear-cut linear design, embodies a subtle sense of nostalgia.Additional appeal lies in its just-right size, snuggling neatly against your back.   The original No. 41 dates back more than 40 years.In the 1980s, when leather randoseru ( special school bags used by Japanese elementary school students) were the norm, we decided to make them in canvas.They were smaller than the No. 41 of today as at the time, most school textbooks and handouts were B5 in size.     Later, when the R-01 randoseru-style backpack evolved from No. 41, production of No. 41 was halted.However, we would still often see customers come to our shop with their well-used No. 41 backpacks.Surprisingly, most of them were women. Their reason for use was as follows:“This bag is so easy to open and close—and so user friendly. ”“It’s not too big, not too small. It’s just the perfect size!”We were astonished to hear their comments.Quite a few customers had the shoulder straps or the handle repaired and continued using their bags. Others said that they'd love to buy a new one but... and trailed off.In response to the needs of the customers who loved No. 41, we decided to bring it back into production after several decades.The newly reinstated No. 41 retains its classic retro feel, but has been adjusted to fit A4 documents.Thus not only has No. 41 returned but has evolved into an even more practical backpack to suit the times.     It doesn’t take up much space even on a crowded train, and can be carried by the handle for transport over short distances.Another feature is how snugly it fits your back, thanks to its randoseru-derived shape.     It has a capacity of 11 liters.In addition to everyday essentials, it can hold A4 documents and a laptop.The inner flap helps keep contents dry even if you’re caught in a sudden shower.The inner divider keeps notebooks and laptop neatly organized.The front pocket with a flap can hold lots of small items, such as a smartphone, daily planner, pens, eco-bag as well as earphones.       For even greater convenience, a side carabiner has been added.It can be used to hang a folding umbrella, a water bottle, a drawstring pouch, or a small tote bag, further expanding its user friendliness.Moreover, the bottom insert and buckle at the top help keep the bag's shape even when it’s fully packed, allowing it to stay snug against your back.       The more it is used, the softer the canvas becomes, and its linear shape gradually becomes more rounded.     In a 1980s advertisement, the catch phrase of the canvas randoseru was “Lightweight and durable! Perfect for both school and outdoor use.”That concept remains the same today and makes the bag your staunch companion whether commuting to work or school, walking around town, or going on picnics. It is indeed an user-friendly, all-occasion bag.

Subtle yet elegant purple

August 17, 2026

Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu's purple is slightly reddish in color and is a subtle hue like that of violas, wisterias, and iris.The purple brings to mind the simple, almost fragile beauty in nature.