Only one kind of footgear is appropriate for a life on the beach. But Okichu, a Shima-zori (Island Flip-flop) and souvenir specialty shop, takes the tradition a step or, actually, a few steps further by creating personalized flip-flops that the wearer can pretty much be sure no others alike exist.

Okichu Shimazouri Shop has the latest machines and printers to make footwear. The sole follows the foot's natural shape, as the toe part is low, and the heel is higher. Each pair is handmade, and the strap is made of natural rubber. They are comfortable and solid, even for long walks.

The process is simple.

1. Write your personal information on the order form.

2. Fill out a form to indicate the size and the type of the sole – traditional or finger-type.

3. Choose from 19 different colors.

4. Rubber straps are available in 12 different colors.

5. Next comes the real customizing. Okichu has 16 different patterns to print on the soles.

6. For a final touch, the customer can add his or her name or any other text within the space limit using one of five fonts for the alphabet. Another idea is for a team activity to have the team logo and member's name printed on the soles. Okichu can make team flip-flops with any logo if the order is for ten pairs or more.

A good idea is to make flip-flops for a team activity and have the team logo and member's name printed on the soles. Okichu can make team flip-flops with any logo if the order is for ten pairs or more.
Also available are soles with six symbols related to Kabuki, a classical Japanese dance drama. The Kabuki symbols were added to celebrate the Tokyo Olympic Games and have proven to be a hit. Okichu is the only store in Okinawa that has a conract with Kabuki.

After everything is selected, Okichu proceeds to make the flip-flops, which the customer can pick up at the shop in about 30 minutes. The result is beach footwear that is entirely personal and unique. The number of available combinations guarantees that no one walks in similar "shoes" on the same beach as you. And when the weather gets cold, or you leave the island, you can hang your colorful flip-flops on the wall to remind you about your time of laid-back leisure on our island paradise, Okinawa. For that reason, they also make a great and memorable present.

In the past, Shima-zori (Island Flip-flops) were on display at local stores next to bananas. Their quality was not that great and often left the wearer with sore feet after a long walk.

The shop is near the Sunset Beach entrance. Look for the big island Shima-zori sign.