2026 Japanese Stationery Awards: A Complete Guide to This Year's Winning Products

12 juni 2026 Ame Jin

→ Explore the Award-Winning Collection at Paper Whisper

The 2026 Japanese Stationery Awards turned out to be one of the most surprising years in recent memory, and perhaps because of that, one of the most closely watched by stationery enthusiasts.

Much of the discussion has centered around this year’s Grand Award winner: the Solid Write mechanical pencil from LACONIC. Before this, LACONIC was primarily known for its planners and diaries. What makes the result even more interesting is that, once you learn more about Solid Write, it almost feels like a countercurrent to today’s trend of increasingly feature-packed mechanical pencils. Its win may signal the beginning of a new shift toward simplification, and perhaps even a reconsideration of what we value in the writing experience itself.

In any case, let’s take a look back at the winners of the 2026 Japanese Stationery Awards. You may be pleased to find that some of your favorite stationery items received the recognition they deserve, and perhaps discover a few new favorites along the way.

About the Japanese Stationery Awards

The Japanese Stationery Awards, known in Japanese as 文房具屋さん大賞 and sometimes translated as the Japanese Stationery Store Awards, has been held since 2013 and is now in its fourteenth year.

The products recognized by this award are often highly regarded within the stationery community, and the event is frequently described as the “Oscars of the stationery world.” In my view, the comparison is a very fitting one. The judging panel is made up of professionals working in stationery stores, people who combine industry expertise with a close understanding of both the market and the needs of everyday stationery users. As a result, the award has earned a reputation for striking a thoughtful balance between industry trends, professional design perspectives, and real-world market value.

CONTENT

Grand Prize - LACONIC Solid Write Mechanical Pencil

The LACONIC Solid Write stands out as a pencil built around subtraction rather than addition. At a time when mechanical pencils are increasingly defined by new mechanisms and advanced features, Solid Write focuses instead on balance, weight, and the writing experience itself. Its 23 g metal body, matte rubber-coated finish, and distinctive hexagonal ring all serve this purpose. Its real appeal lies in the subtle feeling of stability and control that only becomes apparent once it is in your hand.

“The fact that a company outside the writing instrument industry won the Grand Award with a mechanical pencil is likely to send shockwaves through the industry. However, I personally was not surprised. The simple design philosophy of focusing solely on writing is a natural extension of LACONIC’s long-standing approach to product design, which has always carried a certain Zen-like sensibility. This is surely the result of years of consistent branding. A black-only color lineup, a low center of gravity that makes writing comfortable, a cool grip in the hand, and a hexagonal ring that prevents rolling without the need for a clip - this pencil is made up of nothing but the elements that would capture the heart of any mechanical pencil enthusiast. The finishing touch is the completely transparent packaging. I can only admire the company’s commitment to carrying its design philosophy through to the very end.”
— Yoshinori Takagi (Head Judge)

“In addition to its beautiful appearance, its stable weight balance is particularly appealing. This is a mechanical pencil that provides reliable support for writing and studying.”
— Takuya Takahashi

“A jet-black pencil stripped down to the essentials. The design has been refined to the utmost degree, resulting in a beauty that even conveys a sense of dignity. A new phase of LACONIC design.”
— Kazumi Udagawa

Design Award - Sakura Komagoma Small Items Organizer File (A4)

Accordion-style organizers have been around for a long time. But what makes Sakura Komagoma Organizer File stand out stand out is how thoughtfully it addresses two practical challenges: visibility and accessibility. The fan-like accordion structure opens wide and stands on its own, making it easy to see and retrieve papers without sorting through layers by hand. Regular-sized Komagoma organizers were already popular among people who enjoy journaling, crafting, and other paper-based hobbies, and this new A4 version brings the same smart design to office use.

Functionality Award - Pilot FriXion Synergy 3 3-Color Erasable Gel Pen

For stationery enthusiasts around the world, the Pilot FriXion series probably needs little introduction. This year’s Functionality Award went to the newly released FriXion Synergy 3-Color version, which combines black, red, and blue inks in a single pen. Like other FriXion pens, it uses erasable thermo-sensitive ink, allowing you to write, erase, and rewrite with ease, The fine 0.4 mm Synergy Tip offers precise writing while maintaining a smooth and stable feel. The muted color options give the pen a calm, understated look that feels just as suitable for a planner or study desk as it does for the office.

Idea Award - Sun-Star UFO Flat Pouch

Sun-Star’s UFO series has become something of a favorite in both stationery stores and award season over the past two years. Last year, the UFO pencil case took first place in its category, and this year, a UFO-themed bookmark was also selected for one of the Stationery Store Special Award.

The winner of this year’s Idea Award is the UFO Flat Pouch, a simple zip pouch that can be attached to a bag, serving as both a playful accessory and a practical place to store everyday essentials. The neon color palette adds a touch of Y2K energy to its already nostalgic retro aesthetic. Perhaps the popularity of the series reflects the return of a certain visual style, or simply a growing fondness for the optimism and charm of an earlier era.

Category Awards

Ballpoint Pen Category Winner: Pilot Juice+ Gel Pen

The Pilot Juice+ feels like a combination of two of Pilot’s most beloved features among stationery enthusiasts: the smooth, vibrant Juice pigment ink and the precise Synergy Tip. The result is a pen that handles everyday writing, note-taking, journaling, and even light sketching with equal ease. Its clean, airy design also deserves some of the credit.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Pilot Juice+ Gel Pen
Top 2: KAYOU+ Sérar
Top 3: Sakura Graft_lab 010
Top 4: KAYOU+ tinte
Top 5: Sakura Ballsign Sugar Knock Gel Pen
Top 6: Sakura Ballsign iD (New Edition)
Top 7: OHTO Ballpoint Pen TL01
Top 8: Uni-ball ZENTO
Top 9: Pentel Floatune (Airy Design Limited)
Top 10: Uni Jetstream Prime Single-Color Twist Pen
Top 11: Zebra bLen U (Blue & Red ink color)
Top 12: Pentel Mattehop Dream Color Set

Mechanical Pencil Category Winner: KAYOU+ AIMVISION Pro

One of the brands that caught my attention this year is KAYOU+, a relatively young company with a strong focus on pen design. Machined from solid brass and carefully engineered to reduce vibration during writing, AIMVISION Pro delivers a stable and highly controlled writing experience. Details such as the one-piece machined tip and grip, the compact clip, and even the tactile lead hardness indicator reveal an attention to craftsmanship that extends far beyond appearance. It is easy to see why AIMVISION PRO has attracted attention not only in the stationery world, but also from major design awards such as the iF Design Award and Red Dot Award.

Full Ranking
Top 1: KAYOU+ AIMVISION Pro
Top 2: Kitera LIFT+ Mechanical Pencil
Top 3: Uni Kuru Toga Wood
Top 4: KAYOU+ AIMVISION
Top 5: Staedtler REG
Top 6: Zebra Tech 2way RO
Top 7: Luddite TechDraw 2 Yellow Knife (Model B)
Top 8: Tombow MONO Graph (New Colors)
Top 9: Pilot Dr. GRIP CL
Top 10: Pilot AIRSTEP

Fountain Pen Category Winner: Sailor Profit Casual L Gold Trim

The Sailor Profit is one of Sailor’s most iconic fountain pen series, also known as the 1911 series in overseas markets. This year’s winner, the Profit Casual L Gold Trim, brings the classic Profit design to a more accessible price point. Although it uses a stainless steel nib, Sailor has carefully finished it to provide a writing experience often compared to that of a gold nib. The rounded, full-bodied silhouette, smooth translucent resin, and gold trim give the pen a refined and timeless appearance. Comfortable in the hand and easy to write with, it feels equally at home in everyday writing, journaling, or more formal settings.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sailor Profit Casual L Gold Trim
Top 2: Platinum BISO
Top 3: Gakken Sta:Ful × Kurahashi Rei Fountain Pen
Top 4: Pilot LIGHTIVE
Top 5: Platinum #3776 Century Fuji Unkei “Kinu-Gumo” (絹雲)
Top 6: Pilot Custom 845 (Navy)
Top 7: Sailor TUZU Glassy
Top 8: Platinum CURIDAS Stones Limited
Top 9: Sheaffer Legacy Black
Top 10: Platinum #3776 Century “Shape of Heart Bluebird”

Color Pen Category Winner: Sun-Star LAMECO Glitter-only Marker

Rather than competing with other color markers directly, the Sun-Star LAMECO Glitter-Only Marker takes a different approach. Its role is closer to that of a supporting character, adding a subtle sparkle to work that is already on the page. The transparent glitter ink can be layered over highlighters, markers, ballpoint pens, stamps, and other paper crafts without covering the original colors beneath. It can also be used on its own to create soft shimmering backgrounds and highlights. For stationery enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different pens, inks, and creative effects, LAMECO is a charming and surprisingly versatile finishing touch.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sun-Star LAMECO Glitter-Only Marker
Top 2: LIHIT LAB. myfa Decoration Marker
Top 3: Sun-Star Neola Color Marker with Glitter
Top 4: Shachihata Emergency Preparedness Marker
Top 5: Nakabayashi Pureline 2.4mm Highlighter
Top 6: Sakura Coupy Marker 5-color Set
Top 7: Zebra Mildliner Fine Limited
Top 8: Pentel Dual Metallic Gel Pen
Top 9: Zebra Mildliner Highlighter Calm Colors
Top 10: Pentel Pointliner

Multi Pen Category Winner: Sailor Pensiero Verita S Multi Pen

The Sailor Pensiero Verita S brings together three everyday ink colors within a compact twist-action body. What sets it apart is the way Sailor has paired that practicality with a strong sense of refinement. The metallic finish carries a rich, elegant sheen, while the gold-toned details give the pen a sense of weight and presence in the hand. It feels equally suited to note-taking, planning, and everyday writing, while offering a level of finish more often associated with traditional writing instruments. The result is a multi pen that feels both practical and surprisingly sophisticated.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sailor Pensiero Verita S Multi Pen
Top 2: Kutsuwa Mechanical Pencil with Stylus
Top 3: OHTO Multi Pen MS02
Top 4: Teranishi Chemical Industry Magic Brush Pen - Yuzen Washi Fine Tip
Top 5: Gakken Sta:Ful × Kurahashi Rei Jetstream 4&1
Top 6: Teranishi Chemical Industry Kami Magic Marker
Top 7: Pilot 4+1 Wood Earth Color
Top 8: Pentel Calm 3-color Ballpoint Pen
Top 9: Pentel Calm Multi-functional Ballpoint Pen
Top 10: Pilot Dr. Grip 4+1 Botanical Color

Eraser Category Winner: Seed Kadoloop Eraser

An eraser gradually loses its sharp corners with use, making it harder to erase small details. SEED’s Kadoloop offers a surprisingly playful solution: when the corners wear down, you can simply give the eraser “a hot bath”. After soaking it in hot water for a short time, the softened material can be pressed into the included mold, allowing the eraser to regain its sharp edges and return to work. Part clever stationery design, part science experiment, Kadoloop turns a familiar disposable item into something that feels almost capable of reviving itself.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Seed Kadoloop Eraser
Top 2: Kokuyo Campus An Eraser That Erases Well and Resists Breaking
Top 3: Luddite THIS INDUSTRIAL Eraser Armor
Top 4: Sun-Star Anohino Eraser (The Eraser of That Day)
Top 5: Sun-Star Frozen Creatures Eraser
Top 6: Tombow MONO Colors
Top 7: Hinodewashi Secret Matomarukun Hungry Flavors 25
Top 8: Hinodewashi Human Body-kun 2
Top 9: Sun-Star Umi Gomu (Sea Eraser)
Top 10: Tombow MONO Stick (Black)

Pen Case Category Winner: Sun-Star Cicada Shell Pen Case

Last year’s top prize in this category also went to Sun-Star’s UFO Pen Case. This year, the company returned with something even more unexpected: a pen case shaped like a cicada shell! It is the kind of idea that perhaps only a brand like Sun-Star, known for its playful imagination, would dare to turn into a real product.

For many people in Japan, spotting someone carrying this pen case might instantly bring back a shared childhood memory - the sounds and atmosphere of summer, or perhaps it’s a quiet signal between fellow insect enthusiasts. The design is genuinely clever: the opening of the pen case is placed exactly where the cicada emerges from its shell.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sun-Star Cicada Shell Pen Case
Top 2: Campus Pen Case That Opens into a Tray for Easy Viewing
Top 3: Kokuyo Campus Pen Case for Sorting Favorite Stationery
Top 4: Kokuyo WAVELE Holder Pen Case
Top 5: Pilot Cha no Megumi Pen Case
Top 6: Raymay Fuji Trail Pen Case
Top 7: Ryu-Ryu Pen Socks
Top 8: EL COMMUN MATOKA LILLE Slim Pen Case
Top 9: Sedia Bel Posto Pen Case Square S
Top 10: Sedia Bel Posto Pen Case Triangle M

Desk Organization Category Winner: Sonic Digitox The Routine Block Case for Smartphone

Strictly speaking, the Sonic Digitox Block Case for Smartphone is difficult to define as a traditional desktop storage product. It feels more like a product of our time, one that reflects the challenges of modern life. It is a countdown box designed to keep smartphones out of reach during study sessions or daily digital detox time. Its distinctive feature is a built-in time-lock mechanism that prevents the case from being opened until the set time has passed. (Of course, an emergency unlock button is included in case you need to open it early.)

Sonic is a brand well known for helping children develop better study habits and interests. But who is to say adults do not need a smartphone lockbox like this as well?

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sonic Digitox The Routine Block Case for Smartphone
Top 2: Luddite THIS INDUSTRIAL Attractive PenTray2 3-Slot
Top 3: Sonic Digitox The Block Case for Smartphone
Top 4: EL COMMUN MATOKA Book Box
Top 5: Sedia Peninsula Animal Pen Stand
Top 6: Sonic Livgak 2-Way Study Bag
Top 7: Carl Office Products Tool Stand Custom
Top 8: Hightide New Retro Mini Tool Box (Tai Chi)
Top 9: LIHIT LAB. Book Stand That Won’t Fall Over Even with One Book

Pouch & Bag Category Winner: LACONIC In Action Pen Pouch

Part of LACONIC’s in Action series, this pen pouch captures the spirit that runs through the collection: a sense of being on the move. The clear PVC body, neon-inspired colors, and simple logo design bring together a slightly nostalgic Y2K atmosphere with the feeling of a travel accessory picked up for the next journey.

Full Ranking
Top 1: LACONIC In Action Pen Pouch
Top 2: Nakabayashi Nekonose Multi Pouch
Top 3: Sun-Star Popcorn Pen Pouch
Top 4: Gakken Sta:Ful Cat Ear Pouch
Top 5: Kutsuwa ORISTA Laptop Stand
Top 6: EL COMMUN MATOKA Cotomo Multi Pouch
Top 7: LABCLIP Trio Aquarium Mini Case
Top 8: Raymay Fujii Kept Mini Acrylic Stand Case
Top 9: Hightide New Retro Zipper Bag S/L
Top 10: Nakabayashi See-Through Mini Backpack
Top 11: Raymay Fujii KUM Clear Pass Case
Top 12: Kutsuwa Lightweight Shoulder Pouch
Top 13: Kokuyo Cabaco Tool Pen Case (Half Pocket)

File Category Winner: Kokuyo Campus Quick-Open Binder Notebook

Loose-leaf binders are a category that already feels highly refined. Over the years, stationery brands have improved almost every detail imaginable, making major breakthroughs increasingly difficult. Yet the Campus Quick-Open Binder Notebook feels like a reminder that good design is often about continuous refinement in details.

Features such as rings that stay out of the way while writing are no longer particularly new. What makes this binder stand out is the smoothness of its operation. The one-touch ring mechanism allows the binder to be opened, closed, and refilled with one hand, making the entire process feel quick and effortless. It is a small improvement, but one that becomes immediately noticeable in everyday use.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Kokuyo Campus Quick-Open Binder Notebook
Top 2: King Jim HOSSO Clear File
Top 3: Kenkousya SlideNote A5 Landscape
Top 4: Kokuyo Campus Ring Binder Notebook (A6)
Top 5: Kokuyo Campus Ring Binder Notebook (A7 Variant)
Top 6: King Jim Kakiko Clear File (Refillable Version)
Top 7: Maruman Laminated Tab Index (Mild Colors)
Top 8: LIHIT LAB. Print Loose Binder
Top 9: King Jim King Mini Series 3-hole Binder Vol. 3

Sticky Notes Category Winner: Kokuyo Campus Roll Sticky Notes

At first glance, Kokuyo’s Campus Roll Sticky Notes look almost like an accessory from the popular Bobbin Washi Tape Mini Roll Maker. In reality, the two products are quite different. Despite its tape-like form, this is very much a sticky note designed for studying, note-taking, and office work, so it works well with a wide range of pens and pencils.

More importantly, it addresses several small limitations of traditional sticky notes. You can cut exactly the length you need, the full adhesive backing helps prevent corners from lifting or notes falling off, and the compact case makes it easy to carry in a pencil case or pocket.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Kokuyo Campus Roll Sticky Notes
Top 2: Sun-Star Mekurumeku Tsubo Sticky Notes
Top 3: Kanmido Coco Fusen TAS Tool Series
Top 4: Kokuyo Campus Loose-Leaf Sticky Notes
Top 5: Sun-Star Sukekakera Sticky Notes
Top 6: +teacher Grid Sticky Notes “basic”
Top 7: Sakura Stand-Up Communication Sticky Notes
Top 8: Beverly Cocosasu Sticky Notes Marumi Color
Top 9: Kokuyo Campus Foldable Sticky Notes
Top 10: Beverly Marumino Sticky Notes
Top 11: World Craft Moomin Film Index

Letter Category Winner: Midori Mogumogu Mini Letter Set

Midori took the top spot in the Letter category once again this year with its charming Mogumogu Mini Letter Sets. You can always count on Midori’s paper goods for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The highlight of this letter sets is the oversized sealing stickers. Once attached, they create a playful scene in which the animals appear to stretch right across the envelope as they reach for their favorite treats. The letter paper complements the design with illustrations inspired by each animal’s preferred snack. It is ideal for short messages. Whether tucked into a gift or attached to a souvenir, it is a simple but charming way to add a personal note.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Midori Mogumogu Mini Letter Set
Top 2: Furukawa Shiko Bouquet Letter Set
Top 3: NB Mattari Night Mini Letter Set
Top 4: Greeting Life Minimini Message Pad
Top 5: Greeting Life Die-Cut Mini Letter Set - Panda
Top 6: EL COMMUN MATOKA Joyeux Mini Letter Set
Top 7: Nippon Note Message Card with Incense Stick
Top 8: Daigo Hanakotoba Petit Letter Set (Design supervised by Hibiya-Kadan)
Top 9: Furukawa Shiko Sanrio Characters Foil-Stamped Mini Letter Set
Top 10: Maruai Dick Bruna Mini Letter Set
Top 11: Daigo Fleur de Papier Mini Letter Set (Design supervised by Hibiya-Kadan)
Top 12: Midori Kimagure Letter Set

Card Category Winner: Seal-do Shinzi Katoh Miyazawa Kenji Gentokan Kirapika Postcard

It’s hard not to notice these cards, no matter where they appear. Designs from Shinzi Katoh’s Miyazawa Kenji Gentokan series always seem to catch the eye. This Kirapika Postcard collection is no exception. Vibrant colors paired with sparkling gold foil make each design instantly noticeable.

Inspired by the imaginative world of the beloved Japanese author Miyazawa Kenji, these postcards feel like small windows into his stories. Perhaps a single postcard is all it takes to begin exploring his world.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Seal-do Shinzi Katoh Miyazawa Kenji Gentokan Kirapika Postcard
Top 2: Gakken Sta:Ful Kurahashi Rei Premium Postcard
Top 3: Iroha Publishing My Award Pins
Top 4: Greeting Life BONSAI Pop-Up Card
Top 5: Diago Postcard (Design supervised by Hibiya-Kadan)
Top 6: NB Asoberu Birthday Card
Top 7: Gakken Sta:Ful Kurahashi Rei Birthday Message Book (Strawberry)
Top 8: Gakken Sta:Ful Kurahashi Rei Thank You Message Book (Heart)
Top 9: LABCLIP Mizuhiki Works Message Card

Memo Category Winner: Kumpel Kodomo Tetsudo Boxed Memo Cards

The Kodomo Tetsudo Boxed Memo Cards by Kumpel is the kind of product that railway enthusiasts in Japan may find hard to resist. Illustrated by Masukoeri, the cards feature simple black-and-white letterpress designs depicting children and cats dressed as railway staff. Even the back of each card is printed with a security-style background pattern inspired by real railway tickets. The business card-sized memo cards are packed in a delicate foil-stamped box, and every detail feels thoughtfully considered. The entire design carries a strong sense of nostalgia and the atmosphere of Japan’s Showa era.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Kumpel Kodomo Tetsudo Boxed Memo Cards
Top 2: Maruman Mini Loose Leaf Free Diary – Weekly / Monthly
Top 3: Epoch Chemical Hamutto Memo
Top 4: Furukawa Shiko Matchbox Memo
Top 5: Midori Nobinobi Stretch & Fold Memo Pad
Top 6: Ryu-Ryu Choppitto-sen Mini Ippitsusen Letter Pad
Top 7: Maruman Kurutto Ring Mini Binder Cover
Top 8: King Jim Boogie Board BB-19
Top 9: Kutsuwa Bath Word’s Cards

Notebook Category Winner: Diago Tea Time Cafe Notebook

Following last year’s award-winning Coffee Notebook for Tea Time, Daigo returns with another fellow in the cozy “Tea Time” series, a café visit record notebook. This product stands out for its structured sections and prompts that can help you document your café explorations, from planning your visit to recording detailed impressions, including store information, the purpose of your visit, and review chats. There is even a section for you to highlight your favorite menu items. Light and compact, the notebook provides space for 20 entries to capture your café moments.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Diago Tea Time Cafe Notebook
Top 2: Kokuyo Campus Study Planner (To Do)
Top 3: Gakken Sta:Ful SHIROita B6 Cover & Notebook
Top 4: Iroha Publishing SUNNY Notebook
Top 5: NOLTY Notebook
Top 6: Beverly Marumi Notebook
Top 7: LACONIC in Action Cassette Tape Notebook
Top 8: YAMAMOTO PAPER CANOPUS NOTE Notebook
Top 9: Bunundo DotPotch Notebook

Stamp Category Winner: Midori Yuru Log Color Stamp Set

Designed for journaling enthusiasts, Midori’s Yuru Log series introduced its first stamp products, and the Yuru Log Color Stamp Set quickly became an award winner. It features animals in different poses and colors. Stamped along notebook lines, frames, or page edges, the animals appear to peek out or hang from the page, adding a playful touch to planners and journals.

Part of the charm comes from the different ink colors, which make the designs feel even more lively when used together. The cork handles are another lovely detail. Soft and comfortable to hold, they may even remind you of wine bottle corks.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Midori Yuru Log Color Stamp Set
Top 2: Sun-Star Wasanbon Stamp Series
Top 3: PLUS Deco Roll Stamp
Top 4: Kutsuwa Hancoco Slide Layer Stamp
Top 5: Sun-Star Pyokkori Stamp Vol. 2
Top 6: Sun-Star Coiro Ink Pad
Top 7: Sun-Star Nurin 2-Way Stamp Marker
Top 8: Midori Paintable Stamp Roller
Top 9: Shachihata Nototo Dater Stamp

Journal Planner Category Winner: Shinnippon Calendar Koyomi Seikatsu Planner

The Shinnippon Calendar Koyomi Seikatsu Planner is a planner built around the changing seasons. Open to almost any page, from monthly and weekly spreads to the reference sections, and you’ll find small seasonal details tucked into the corners that gently bring your attention back to the time of year.

The planner seems to offer a gentle reminder to look up at the sky, notice the flowers along the street, or simply see what fruits and vegetables are currently in season at the supermarket. If a busy schedule has made it easy to miss the passing of the seasons, this planner offers a small way to reconnect with them.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Shinnippon Calendar Koyomi Seikatsu Planner
Top 2: Sonic Zubora Study 100-Day Key-Point Checklist Memo Stand
Top 3: Iroha Publishing 3 Years Interview Diary
Top 4: Greeting Life Comic Journal
Top 5: Carl Office Products Refill Maker - Light
Top 6: LACONIC e-Friendly Notebook & Dairy Cover
Top 7: Pilot Funlog Undated Life Log Planner
Top 8: Midori Yuru Log Monthly Free Diary
Top 9: Kokuyo Jibun Techo DAYs 2026

Washi Tape Category Winner: mt Write & Draw Perforated Washi Tape - Thank You

Known for its dedication to developing all kinds of washi tape products, mt began introducing writable washi tapes last year. This year’s Masking Tape Award went to mt’s Writing and Drawing Tape.

What makes it especially appealing is the practical “Thank You” message design with a writable surface. The motif features different frame styles in soft tones, making each piece ideal for use as a small label. With perforated lines, the tape is easy to tear by hand. You can casually take off a piece, write a short message on it, and attach it to a gift or card.

Full Ranking
Top 1: mt Write & Draw Perforated Washi Tape - Thank You
Top 2: Kinokosya [Secret Society Memoma] Memo Masking Tape - Amida Lottery
Top 3: BGM Foil Washi Tape We Love ICE
Top 4: Mind Wave Ribbon Series Die Cut Washi Tape
Top 5: EL COMMUN MATOKA Petit et Grand Wide Masking Tape
Top 6: Seal-do Shinzi Katoh Kirapika Washi Tape - Walking Through Literature Series
Top 7: Kutsuwa Ribbonbon Ring Washi Tape Cutter
Top 8: Seal-do Shinzi Katoh Kirapika Washi Tape - Miyazawa Kenji Gentokan Series
Top 9: Ryu-Ryu Hosomasu Slim Washi Tape Set
Top 10: King Jim HITOTOKI KITTA Collection Vol. 15
Top 11: Seal-do Shinzi Katoh Kirapika Washi Tape - Hoshi Akira Series
Top 12: +teacher Align-and-Apply Masking Tape

Sticker Category Winner: Sakura Glow-in-the-dark Icon Sticker

This year’s Sticker Award went to a product that is designed not for decoration, but for everyday practicality: Sakura’s Glow-in-the-Dark Icon Stickers. Featuring simple icons for everyday items such as edges, handrails, and switches, the stickers glow for approximately three to four hours after about 30 minutes of exposure to indoor lighting. They help you locate things in the dark without turning on the light and disturbing sleeping babies or others.

Beyond their usefulness in daily life, these stickers can also be especially helpful during emergencies, such as power outages caused by disasters. In many ways, they reflect a distinctly Japanese approach to design: simple, thoughtful, and created to solve real-life problems.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Sakura Glow-in-the-dark Icon Sticker
Top 2: Kamio Japan Otonano Zukan Series Premium
Top 3: Mind Wave Hitokoto Reaction Sticker (see Vol. 2)
Top 4: Sun-Star WAKUMO Roll Sticker
Top 5: Kamio Japan Capsule Pop Seal Sticker
Top 6: Midori Planner Sticker Travel Story Series
Top 7: NB WANOWA Mizuhiki Sticker
Top 8: Sun-Star Bonbon Drop Crystal Sticker
Top 9: BGM Diorama 2.5D Stickers

Clip Category Winner: Kokuyo Campus Portable Book Clip

Book clips have become a surprisingly competitive category in recent years. As brands continue to come up with increasingly creative solutions, Kokuyo always seems to refine the idea one step further. The Campus Portable Book Clip brings together a number of thoughtful features that solve real problems readers often encounter.

The clip folds down into a slim, pen-like shape, making it easy to carry in a pencil case alongside your everyday stationery. Once opened, it holds pages securely and frees both hands for reading, studying, or working. One particularly clever detail is that the left and right sides function as separate clips rather than a single fixed piece. This allows the clip to accommodate books with different page thicknesses on each side, providing a more stable hold and neatly addressing a problem many book clips tend to overlook.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Kokuyo Campus Portable Book Clip
Top 2: Raymay Fujii Kept Half-Split Clip
Top 3: FUEKI Fueki-kun Rubber Clip
Top 4: Nakabayashi Shifte Multi-Directional Clipboard
Top 5: Nakabayashi Stand Clipboard (Vertical/Horizontal)
Top 6: Hightide Penco Clampy Clip
Top 7: Kamio Japan Nafuda Clip
Top 8: Midori Chiratto Index Clip (S)
Top 9: Sugai World Clip Family – Sea Creatures Series
Top 10: LABCLIP Trio Aquarium Acrylic Clip
Top 11: Sun-Star Ukanmuri Clip Clear Colors
Top 12: Sonic Kadono Clip Corner Clip Set
Top 13: Sonic Omo Clip Paletta

Scissors Category Winner: Raymay ZACCC Multi-Function Scissors

The Raymay ZACCC scissors feel like a tool that was designed with real-world use in mind. In addition to functioning as scissors, it can also be used as a box opener and features a saw-style blade for cutting cardboard and thicker paper.

Imagine the process of opening a parcel: cutting through packing tape, opening bubble wrap and product packaging, then breaking down a large cardboard box so it fits neatly into the recycling bin. With the ZACCC, all of those tasks can be handled with a single tool. It even includes measurement markings, which can come in handy when you need to cut a box evenly along its edges to reduce its size or adapt it to fit something inside.
If you appreciate all-in-one tools, the ZACCC can really save a surprising amount of space in your toolbox.

Full Ranking
Top 1: Raymay ZACCC Multi-Function Scissors
Top 2: Midori XS Compact Scissors (Serrated Blade)
Top 3: Sun-Star Stickyle TSUMAMUNO Scissors
Top 4: Kokuyo SAXA Scissors (Slim, Glueless Blade)
Top 5: Plus Fitcut Curve Twiggy Scissors with Box Opener
Top 6: Sakura Good Fit!! School Scissors
Top 7: Kutsuwa Slide Edge Scissors with with Integrated Cap

Cutter Category Winner: PLUS PICO FRIENDS Box Cutter

The PLUS PICO FRIENDS Box Cutter is so charming that guests visiting your home might mistake it for a desk ornament or a small night light. The cutter comes in three animal designs: seal, penguin and polar bear. As you slide it smoothly across the surface of a box, it looks as if the tiny animal is gliding on ice.
Beneath the rounded body is a ceramic blade with a modest cutting depth, which can protect both your hand and items inside the package.

When you’re finished, simply slide it back into its ice-like base. While it sits securely in its base, don’t let its cute appearance fool the children into treating it like a toy. The bigger danger, perhaps, is not the blade at all, it is that it makes opening parcels so much fun that you start finding excuses to place another order.

Full Ranking
Top 1: PLUS PICO FRIENDS Box Cutter
Top 2: Midori XS Ceramic Cutter
Top 3: Hightide attaché MOP Letter Opener
Top 4: NIKKEN CUTLERY Seiryu Engetsuto Letter Opener
Top 5: NT Cutter Rolling Cutter for Creating Perforations
Top 6: Sun-Star Cassette Tape Cutter
Top 7: Midori OPP Tape Cutter

Judges’ Special Award

石丸文行堂賞
Sun-Star Cassette Tape Measure

The cassette tape might seem like something from another era, but Sun-Star Stationery brings this nostalgic design back in a surprisingly practical way. Disguised as a cassette, it is actually a compact portable tape measure that comes in retro colors. With its key holder design, the cassette tape measure is easy to carry around and ready to use whenever you need it.

オフィスベンダー賞
Kutsuwa Punyu Spiral Pen Grip

Sometimes improving the writing experience does not require a new pen at all. The Kutsuwa Punyu Spiral Pen Grip takes a simple idea and makes it surprisingly versatile. Simply wind it around the grip section and it is ready to use. The elastic material conforms to your fingers, helping improve grip and reduce hand fatigue during longer writing sessions.

くまざわ書店賞
Futaba ROKKAKU Cat Art Collection Book Cover - Fish

“NO CAT NO LIFE!” Does this theme strike a chord with you? This award-winning Rokkauku book cover is a collaboration product with the art project “365Cat.Art” by illustrator Orie Kawamura. Combining the charming cat illustrations with delicate foil-stamping craft, this design turns the book cover into a small art piece that easily captures the hearts of cat lovers.

Another highlight lies in the material. This cloth-like cover is made from a Nordic-developed paper material that gradually develops a richer texture over time, giving the book cover an even more distinctive character.

コーチャンフォー賞
Q-Lia Transparent Sticker Binder

Originally designed for Q-Lia’s highly popular Bonbon Drop Stickers, this binder is also suitable for storing other epoxy stickers, resin stickers, and paper stickers. Its most distinctive feature is the refill design. Instead of release paper, it uses transparent PVC sheets, giving your collection a wonderful display effect while providing better protection for stickers with a bit of thickness. There is something relaxing and satisfying about choosing your favorite stickers and arranging them on the clear sheets, turning sticker storage into a small ritual.

精文館書店賞
UHOLABO Best Ruler × Makeine Collaboration

The UHOLABO Best Ruler looks like an ordinary ruler at first glance, but it actually combines many practical functions into a single tool. In addition to drawing straight lines, it can help you measure and draw angles like a triangle ruler, work as a compass to create circles of different sizes, and even measure curved surfaces thanks to its flexible material. Now, the version that received the stationery store recommendation has been released in collaboration with the hugely popular anime series Makeine, giving fans one more reason to pick one up!

TSUTAYA賞
King Jim PouZoo Pen Grip

Don’t be fooled by its plush toy-like appearance. Yes, it really is a pen grip. Once you slide your pen inside, the fluffy texture gives it a more comfortable grip and helps prevent slipping. Its eye-catching appearance also adds a bit more fun when you use it, as every click on the pen feels like a gentle pat on the animal’s head. The grip comes with a strap, allowing you to attach it to your bag and carry it around like a tiny companion. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from every Pouzoo goes to the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums to work such as support, protection and breeding of rare animals.

ナガサワ文具センター賞
Kokuyo Otona no Yaruki Pen

For many adults, studying often means learning on their own, and a thoughtful little tool like the Kokuyo Otona no Yaruki Pen can make the process feel a bit more encouraging. It is designed for adults preparing for exams or working through a long-term study project. Attached to your pen, it connects with an app that helps quantify your study progress in various ways, turning your efforts into something visible. It can help strengthen your sense of focus and purpose, while providing a little extra motivation to keep going.

ノベルティ研究所賞
Midori Miniature Magnet (1 piece)

If you’re a fan of Japanese food, this Midori magnet collection may be hard to resist. The designs are realistic, capturing the textures and details of popular Japanese foods and snacks such as dango, ramen, sushi, and taiyaki. Placed on a refrigerator, they look almost appetizing enough to eat. They also make charming souvenirs and keepsakes, bringing home a small reminder of a trip to Japan. (See all Midori Miniature Magnets)

ハンズ賞
Sun-Star UFO Bookmark

UFO and cow, this classic combo is presented by Sun-Star again this year. This time, the UFO has transformed from a pen case or mini pouch into a bookmark, hovering above your page while its tractor beam illuminates certain text below. Perhaps the interaction feels stronger with vertically set Japanese or Chinese books. But who knows? In a horizontally printed book, it may just be illuminating some kind of cosmic secret code.

丸善ジュンク堂書店賞
Midori Delicious Diary

This Midori guide journal is designed for keeping food-related memories. Each page is divided into three sections, making it easy to fill in without pressure. The dot grid layout also helps keep your notes neat while remaining flexible for casual doodles. Each entry even includes a five-star rating area where you can record your satisfaction. The diary can be used to capture moments such as dining with someone special, reactions from family or friends after tasting the cuisine you made, daily meals or even shop cards from cafés or restaurants.

有隣堂賞
Nakabayashi Digio2 Slide Mouse

This rechargeable mouse is well suited for people who often work or study in cafés, travel for business, or regularly carry a laptop between different places. Its most distinctive feature is the sliding cover design. When closed, the mouse folds into a slim, rounded shape that helps prevent accidental clicks while being carried around. The buttons are also designed to operate quietly, making it comfortable to use in libraries, meeting rooms, or late at night in a shared room without worrying about disturbing the people around you.

ロフト賞
Sun-Star Fukimaru Desk Cleaner

The Fukimaru Desk Cleaner looks like a cat standing on its front paws, as if it is wiping the desk for you. It is essentially a miniature “mop” designed for your desk. Simply attach a piece of tissue paper underneath, grab the cat by its tail, and clean your desk just as you would mop a floor. The bottom of the cleaner even features raised paw-print patterns, leaving tiny paw marks on the tissue as it picks up dust or ink stains (an almost unreasonable level of attention to detail).

No, you don’t need a cat-shaped mini mop to clean your desk. But it is hard not to smile when one is standing there, ready to help with the next bit of dust.

ヨドバシカメラ賞
Kokuyo Campus Study Filter Ruler

Using specially colored highlighters together with tinted overlays to hide and reveal information is one of Kokuyo’s more clever study ideas. The company has already applied it to several popular products, including refill sheets. This time, the concept has found its way into a small ruler. The result is a tool that feels much easier to carry and use in everyday situations. It can be clipped inside a book as a bookmark, ready whenever you want to review your notes, while also helping you draw neat, straight highlighter lines.

— Ame, Paper Whisper

Ame@PaperWhisper

Paper Whisper Stationery

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