Shopping for shoes from Japan can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the country’s sizing system. Unlike the US, UK, or European systems, Japanese shoe sizes are based on the actual length of your foot in centimeters (cm). This makes the system simple and precise, but you’ll often need a conversion chart when buying international brands or ordering online.
This guide includes Japanese shoe size conversion charts for women, men, and kids, along with tips for measuring your feet accurately and choosing the right fit.
Japanese Shoe Sizes
Women’s
| JAPAN | USA | UK | Europe |
| 22.0cm | 5 | 3 1/2 | 35 |
| 22.5cm | 5 1/2 | 4 | 36 |
| 23.0cm | 6 | 4 1/2 | 37 |
| 23.5cm | 6 1/2 | 5 | 38 |
| 24.0cm | 7 | 5 1/2 | 38 |
| 24.5cm | 7 1/2 | 6 | 39 |
| 25.0cm | 8 | 6 1/2 | 39 |
| 25.5cm | 8 1/2 | 7 | 40 |
| 26.0cm | 9 | 7 1/2 | 41 |
| 26.5cm | 9 1/2 | 8 | 42 |
Men’s
| Japan | USA | UK | Europe |
| 24.0 | 6 | 5 1/2 | 39 |
| 24.5 | 6 1/2 | 6 | 40 |
| 25.0 | 7 | 6 1/2 | 40 1/2 |
| 25.5 | 7 1/2 | 7 | 41 |
| 26.0 | 8 | 7 1/2 | 41 1/2 |
| 26.5 | 8 1/2 | 8 | 42 |
| 27.0 | 9 | 8 1/2 | 42 1/2 |
| 27.5 | 9 1/2 | 9 | 43 |
| 28.0 | 10 | 9 1/2 | 43 1/2 |
| 28.5 | 10 1/2 | 10 | 44 |
| 29 | 11 | 10 1/2 | 45 |
| 30 | 12 | 11 | 46 |
Kid’s
| JAPAN | USA | UK | Europe |
| 9cm | 0 | ||
| 9.5cm | 1 | ||
| 10cm | 2 | 2 | 18 |
| 11cm | 3 | 2 | 18 |
| 12cm | 4 | 3 | 19 |
| 12.5cm | 5 | 4 | 20.5 |
| 13.5cm | 6 | 5 | 21.5 |
| 14cm | 7 | 6 | 23 |
| 15cm | 8 | 7 | 24 |
| 15cm | 8.5 | 7 | 24 |
| 15.5cm | 9 | 8 | 25.5 |
| 16cm | 9.5 | 8 | 25.5 |
| 16.5cm | 10 | 9 | 26.5 |
| 17cm | 10.5 | 9 | 26.5 |
| 17.5cm | 11 | 10 | 28 |
| 18cm | 12 | 11 | 29 |
| 18.5cm | 12.5 | 11 | 29 |
| 19cm | 13 | 12 | 30.5 |
| 19.5cm | 13.5 | 13 | 32 |
| 20cm | 1 | 13 | 32 |
| 20.5cm | 2 | 1 | 33 |
| 21cm | 2.5 | 1 | 33 |
| 21.5cm | 3 | 2 | 34.5 |
How the Japanese Shoe Size System Works
Japan uses one of the simplest shoe sizing systems in the world. Instead of assigning arbitrary size numbers, shoes are labeled according to the length of the foot in centimeters.
For example:
- 24.0 cm fits a foot approximately 24 centimeters long.
- 27.5 cm fits a foot approximately 27.5 centimeters long.
This measurement-based system makes it easier to choose the correct size once you know your foot length.
Japanese Shoe Sizes Compared with US, UK, and EU Sizes
Although Japanese sizing is based on centimeters, most other countries use different methods.
- US sizes use a numerical scale that differs for men and women.
- UK sizes are similar to US sizes but usually one size smaller.
- European (EU) sizes use the Paris Point system rather than foot length.
Because these systems aren’t directly interchangeable, using a reliable conversion chart is the easiest way to avoid ordering the wrong size.
How to Measure Your Foot for Japanese Shoe Sizes
Accurate measurements are essential before using a conversion chart.
Step 1
Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor against a wall.
Step 2
Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall.
Step 3
Mark the tip of your longest toe.
Step 4
Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimeters.
Repeat for both feet and use the larger measurement when selecting your shoe size.
Tips for Buying Shoes from Japan Online
Buying shoes internationally is easier when you follow a few simple guidelines.
- Measure your feet in centimeters instead of relying on your usual shoe size.
- Compare your measurement with the brand’s official size chart.
- Read customer reviews for information about sizing and fit.
- Check whether the shoes are described as narrow, regular, or wide.
- Review the store’s return and exchange policy before purchasing.
These steps help reduce sizing mistakes, especially when shopping from unfamiliar brands.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Many shoppers encounter sizing problems because they:
- Convert only their usual US or UK size instead of measuring their feet.
- Ignore differences between brands.
- Forget that feet can vary slightly in length.
- Overlook shoe width when selecting a size.
- Choose a smaller size for a tighter fit instead of prioritizing comfort.
Measuring your feet before every purchase is the most reliable approach.
Conclusion
Japan’s shoe sizing system is straightforward because it’s based on your foot length in centimeters rather than traditional numerical sizes. Once you know your measurement, converting to US, UK, or European sizes becomes much easier with a conversion chart.
For the best fit, always measure both feet, compare your measurements with the manufacturer’s size chart, and read customer reviews before ordering. Taking these extra steps can help ensure your new shoes fit comfortably from the start.
FAQs
How do I measure my feet for Japanese shoe sizes?
Stand with your heel against a wall and measure from the wall to the tip of your longest toe in centimeters. Use the measurement of your larger foot when choosing a size.
Why does Japan use centimeters for shoe sizes?
Japanese shoe sizes are based directly on foot length in centimeters, making the sizing system simple, accurate, and easy to understand.
What if my foot measurement falls between two Japanese sizes?
If you’re between sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size, especially if you wear thicker socks or prefer extra comfort.
Are Japanese shoe sizes the same for men and women?
Yes. Japanese sizes are based on foot length in centimeters, so the measurement itself is the same. However, the equivalent US and UK sizes differ for men’s and women’s shoes.
Do all Japanese shoe brands fit the same?
No. While most brands use centimeter-based sizing, the overall fit, width, and shape can vary. Always consult the brand’s size guide before purchasing.
Is shoe width important when buying Japanese shoes?
Yes. Some Japanese shoe brands are designed with narrower fits than many Western brands. If you have wide feet, check whether wide-width options are available or consider sizing up if recommended by the manufacturer.