Product Details
Sappa-kama: Traditional Workwear of Tohoku
Sappa-kama, or "monkey pants," were originally created as lightweight and agile workwear, enabling ease of movement like a monkey. Rooted in Tohoku's agricultural lifestyle, they were beloved by farmers and craftsmen alike.
Kyoya Dye Works has reimagined this traditional design with Sashiko Sappakama, keeping the best features intact while making them more durable, functional, and stylish.
These pants are not just your work companion—they're fashionable enough to wear out. A reliable partner for both work and daily life, offering support that feels like an extension of your own feet.
Durable sashiko fabric built for heavy use
We chose durable single-thread sashiko fabric, perfect for activities like forestry work, DIY projects, and other demanding tasks.
Sashiko fabric has been known for its strength and resilience since the Edo period, often used for fireman’s jackets. The single-thread sashiko fabric, woven with thick black threads, offers a medium-weight texture that balances durability with softness.
The fabric’s distinctive texture, with its raised weave, creates a striking appearance, dyed beautifully in indigo.
Tailored to Fit Your Body and Movement
The shape features a relaxed fit from the waist through the thighs, tapering gently towards the ankles. This balance preserves the ease of movement essential for workwear while eliminating unnecessary bulk for a sharp, stylish silhouette.
Unique paneling at the inseam and calves—uncommon in regular pants—is carefully crafted to match the body’s natural contours and movements. The result? A pair of pants that feel great, move effortlessly, and are ready to take you wherever you need to go.
Easy to Use, Comfortable to Wear
With two large front pockets and two back pockets, these pants are perfect for holding everything you need on the go, making your work easier. The waistband features a convenient elastic design for easy wear, along with an adjustable drawstring for a snug fit.
The video features a different color of Sappakama. Please refer to it for details on the material and texture.
Dyed in our own factory
Indigo dye, also known as "Japan Blue," is one of the most familiar colors in Japanese life.
Though indigo may seem like a luxury item today, it was once a common color, with many households owning an indigo vat (aiga-me) and regularly re-dyeing clothes as part of everyday life. It was a color deeply rooted in the daily lives of the people.
Like denim, indigo dye offers the joy of aging over time. Each piece fades uniquely, allowing the wearer to create a one-of-a-kind item through wear. And when the color fades, you can always re-dye it to enjoy a fresh look, making indigo dye a truly versatile and enduring choice.
There are two types of indigo dyeing: natural indigo, made from plants, and synthetic indigo, commonly used in denim. Both have their unique appeal.
Natural indigo creates a deep, earthy hue, while synthetic indigo is more affordable and easier to apply to dark colors.
At Kyoya Dye Works, we use synthetic indigo to offer high-quality, accessible products that can be worn and enjoyed for years. When the color fades, simply re-dye to keep enjoying your garment.
Due to the hand-dyeing process, each piece may have slight variations in color. Additionally, the nature of indigo dyeing can result in some color irregularities. We hope you appreciate these unique characteristics as part of the charm of your garment.
"Using what is available" — A traditional Tohoku craft embedded in the "saki-ori" loop
The loop at the back of the neckline is made from "saki-ori," a woven fabric created from leftover material during production. It symbolizes Tohoku's respect for resources and can be used as a hook to hang items.
*Note: Since it's made from leftover fabric, the color of the saki-ori may differ from the photos.
Size Chart
| S | M | L | LL | |
| Suitable Height | 150-160cm | 160-170cm | 170-180cm | 180-190cm |
| Waist (Elastic) | 62-88cm | 65-95cm | 70-100cm | 74-130cm |
| Total Length | 92cm | 96cm | 100cm | 104cm |
| Inseam | 60cm | 64cm | 68cm | 72cm |
| Hip | 56cm | 60cm | 64cm | 68cm |
| Hem Width | 16cm | 17cm | 18cm | 19cm |
Materials
Care Guide
Shipping & Return Policy
Shipping Regions
We ship worldwide from Japan, but delivery to certain countries or regions may be unavailable due to global circumstances and logistical constraints.
Shipping Methods and Carriers
We ship your order using EMS (Express Mail Service) by Japan Post, a reliable international shipping service.
Processing Time
Your order will be shipped within approximately 7 days from the date of purchase.
Customs, Duties, and Other Fees
Since our products are shipped from Japan, customs duties or taxes may apply in the destination country. These fees are the responsibility of the customer, and please understand that we are unable to manage these costs.
If you have any questions, please contact the customs office or relevant authorities in your country before placing your order.
Returns and Exchanges
We take great care to ensure the quality of our products. However, we kindly ask for your understanding that returns or exchanges cannot be accepted unless the item is defective or you have received the wrong product. Due to the additional costs associated with international shipping—such as import/export duties, shipping fees, and longer transit times—this policy helps us maintain a smooth shopping experience for all customers.
Damages and issues
If you receive a damaged or incorrect item, please contact us within 7 days of delivery via email (info@kyo-ya.net) and include photos of the damaged or incorrect product(s). We will do our best to resolve the issue promptly and ensure your satisfaction.
Our Story
Kyoya Dye Works blends tradition and modernity, creating durable, sustainable textiles inspired by Japan's cultural heritage and natural beauty.
