Hello, this is Kaori from HIDARI.
Every year on February 10, Japan celebrates Left-Handed Goods Day.
Did you know that Japan has its own special day dedicated to left-handed tools and products?
The date comes from a Japanese number wordplay, where the numbers can be read in a way that sounds like the word “left.” Creating commemorative days using number wordplay is a common practice in Japan.
What Is Left-Handed Goods Day?
The day was first established in 2001 by the Japan Southpaw Club as “Left-Handed Day.”
While International Left-Handers Day is celebrated worldwide on August 13, that date overlaps with a major holiday period in Japan, when many people are away and events are harder to organize. Because of that, February 10 was chosen instead.
Later, in 2009, the name was updated to Left-Handed Goods Day, and it was officially registered by a Japanese company specializing in left-handed tools and products.
The purpose of the day is simple: to raise awareness of the small everyday inconveniences left-handed people experience — and to promote tools that make those tasks easier and more comfortable.
Surprisingly Useful Left-Handed Tools
When you hear “left-handed tools,” you might think of scissors, ladles, or teapots.
But there are actually many more specialized items than most people expect.
At HIDARI, we often hear customers say, “I didn’t even know a left-handed version existed!”
Here are two examples that tend to surprise people.
A Clipboard Designed for Left-Handed Writing
One of our newer original products is the Left-Handed Clipboard, which has quickly become a customer favorite.
We previously carried a character-design version, but after receiving many requests, we created a plain, minimalist model. It’s now available in three simple colors suitable for both work and home use.
Most folding clipboards are designed for right-handed writers — when opened, the cover sits on the left side, which can interfere with a left hand while writing.
Our left-handed version reverses the opening direction and clip placement, allowing left-handed users to write more smoothly and naturally.
A Razor-Sharp Sickle Made for the Left Hand
Another item people often find unexpected is a left-handed grass-cutting sickle.
Traditional Japanese sickles are single-bevel blades, which means cutting performance depends on which hand you use. A right-handed blade does not cut cleanly when used with the left hand — and vice versa.
This model is a left-handed version of a classic sickle made in Hyogo Prefecture, an area well known for its long history of blade craftsmanship. The thin, finely finished blade delivers excellent sharpness and cutting performance.
It comes in three sizes, and if you’re unsure which to choose, the standard 180 mm size（7.1 in.） is a good starting point.
Celebrate Left-Handed Goods Day
On February 10, why not explore tools that are designed to truly fit the way left-handed people use their hands?
It’s also a great opportunity to find a thoughtful gift for the left-handed people in your life.
At HIDARI, we’re always happy to help you discover tools that feel natural, comfortable, and enjoyable to use.
