Japanese Stationery Awards 2025: What's worth buying this year?

For stationery lovers around the world, the Japanese stationery awards have become more than just an annual event, they’re a celebration of creativity, innovation, and impeccable craftsmanship. Each year, this highly anticipated competition brings together Japan’s top stationery retailers, designers, and enthusiasts to honor products that stand out in functionality, design, and originality.

 From sleek high-performance pens to charmingly designed tapes and stamps, the awards not only set trends in Japan but also influence global stationery culture, making them a must-follow event for anyone passionate about beautiful and practical writing tools. Discover the full list of winners and expert insights right here on Kiichin.

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1. Why did the Japanese stationery awards gain popularity among stationery geeks?

The Japanese stationery awards are an annual event organized by Japan’s leading stationery retailers and industry experts to recognize outstanding products in both design and functionality. First launched to celebrate innovation in everyday tools, these awards have grown into one of the most respected recognitions in the stationery world.

How products are evaluated:

Entries are judged by a panel that includes stationery store staff, product designers, journalists, and dedicated stationery enthusiasts. Judges focus on three key criteria:

1. Functionality – How well the product performs its intended task.
2. Design – Aesthetic appeal, ergonomics, and creativity.
3. Innovation – Unique features or materials that set it apart from existing products.

Feedback from customers and real-world usage tests also influence the final decision, making the results highly relevant to everyday users.

Common award categories:
While the event always includes headline honors such as the Grand Prize, Design Award, Functionality Award, and Innovation Award, it also features popular product-specific categories:

• Best ballpoint pen
• Best mechanical pencil
• Best multi-function pen
• Best color pen
• Best fountain pen
• Best dticker
• Best dtamp
• Best masking tape
• Best scissors
• Best cutter knife

Why they’re so popular:
These awards have gained worldwide attention because they act as a trustworthy guide for finding truly exceptional stationery. A winning product often becomes a trendsetter in Japan and abroad, influencing what consumers buy and even what international brands create next. For stationery lovers, the Japanese stationery awards are a yearly highlight, a mix of practical recommendations and exciting new discoveries.

2. Main award winners of 2025: The Best in Japanese Stationery Awards

In 2025, the Japanese stationery awards spotlighted four exceptional products that stood out above hundreds of contenders. From vibrant highlighters to innovative stamps, these top 4 winners represent the perfect blend of Japanese design, functionality, and creativity. 

1. The Grand Prize - Kire-Na Highlighter
2. The Design Award - The Post Sustainable Leather Bendy Pen Case
3. The Functionality Award - Jetstream Lite Touch Ink Pen
4. The Innovation Award - Kori Jirushi stamp series

2.1 The Grand Prize - Kire-Na Highlighter

The Grand Prize of the Japanese stationery awards 2025 goes to the Pilot Kire-Na Highlighter, a clever innovation in highlighting tools. Its standout feature is a "Kitchen Guide", a small plastic plate that gently glides along the page to help you draw straight, neat lines. 

Additionally, the tip has a smart sponge function to absorb excess ink, preventing pooling and bleeding. The dual-tip design (highlighter and fine-liner) and quick-drying ink make it the perfect blend of precision and practicality.

• Built-in guide ensures straight, consistent highlighting
• Sponge tip prevents ink pooling and smudging
• Dual-tip functionality: highlighter + fine liner
• Fast-drying, smudge-resistant ink, perfect for note-taking and planning

2.2 The Design Award - The Post Sustainable Leather Bendy Pen Case

Winning the Design Award, the Luddite THE POST Sustainable Leather Bendy Pen Case (also known as “The Post Bendy Pen Case”) combines thoughtful design with eco-conscious materials. Made from bonded recycled leather, it opens flat like a sheet for full visibility and organization. Compact yet roomy, it includes pen slots and a zipper pocket, ideal for carrying many tools without clutter. 

• Eco-friendly leather construction
• Converts between slim profile and open organizer
• Customizable, with slots and pockets for different tools
• Stylish, affordable design under 3,000 yen

2.3 The Functionality Award - Jetstream Lite Touch Ink Pen

The Functionality Award is claimed by the Uni Jetstream Lite Touch Ink Pen. Building on the beloved Jetstream line, this version features a refined "Lite Touch Ink" that retains the smoothness of traditional oil-based ink while significantly reducing writing resistance. Combined with a soft matte barrel and excellent balance, it delivers a lighter, more comfortable writing experience. 

• Smooth oil-based ink with reduced pressure needed
• Ergonomic design for less hand fatigue
• Matte finish and minimalistic aesthetics
• Reliable performance suitable for long writing sessions

>>> Buy Mitsubishi Pencil Uni-Ball Jetstream Roller Ball Pens Extra Fine 0.7mm Blue Ink Set of 5 now

2.4 The Innovation Award - Kori Jirushi stamp series

The Innovation (Idea) Award celebrates the King Jim HITOTOKI Kori Jirushi Ice Stamp series, a modern twist on traditional stamps. Made entirely of transparent resin, these stamps allow you to see exactly where the impression will land, making alignment precise and combining multiple layers easier. The transparent design also lets you gauge ink coverage and clean the stamp effortlessly.

• Transparent acrylic design allows perfect alignment
• Easy to monitor ink application and re-ink as needed
• Variety of styles and resilient resin construction
• Functional, playful, and perfect for creative journaling

3. Top category Japanese Stationery Awards 2025 winners list

Beyond the main prize winners, the Japanese stationery awards 2025 also celebrate outstanding products in individual categories. This Top 10 list showcases the very best pens, tapes, scissors, and more:

1. Best Ballpoint Pen - Zebra Blen U
2. Best Mechanical Pencil - Uni Kuru Toga Metal Mechanical Pencils
3. Best Multi-function Pen - Jetstream 4&1 (Light Touch Ink)
4. Best color pen - Sun-Star Decot Overwriting Markers
5. Best fountain pen - Sailor Compass TUZU Adjust Fountain Pens
6. Best Sticker - Palette-Tone Paint Palette Stickers
7. Best Stamp - Pokkori Pop-Up Stamp
8. Best Masking Tape - mt Upcycle Tape
9. Best Scissors - One-Piece Cap Kids’ Scissors 
10. Best Cutter Knife - 2-Way Opener “Akeru Key”

3.1 Best Ballpoint Pen - Zebra Blen U

The Zebra Blen U takes ballpoint writing to a new level with its upgraded “S” oil-based ink for darker, smoother lines and an anti-vibration core that keeps writing steady. The ergonomic body and sturdy clip make it a reliable everyday pen for work, study, or journaling.

• Smooth, dark ink with minimal pressure
• Anti-vibration stabilizer reduces hand fatigue
• Comfortable grip and balanced weight
• Durable clip for easy carrying

3.2 Best Mechanical Pencil - Uni Kuru Toga Metal Mechanical Pencils

The Uni Kuru Toga Metal keeps your lines sharp with its signature rotating-lead mechanism while offering the premium feel of a solid metal body. A built-in damper minimizes vibrations, making it a pleasure for long writing or drawing sessions.

• Auto-rotating mechanism for consistent line thickness
• Durable metal construction
• Balanced weight for control and comfort
• Vibration-dampening for smoother writing

>>> Shop Mitsubishi Pencil Uni Kuru Toga 0.5mm 2B Mechanical Pencil Lead Blue Case before they sells out

3.3 Best Multi-function Pen - Jetstream 4&1 (Light Touch Ink)

Combining four Jetstream ballpoint inks with a mechanical pencil, the Jetstream 4&1 Light Touch Ink delivers ultimate versatility. The upgraded ink requires less pressure, making multi-task writing smoother and more comfortable.

• 4 ink colors + 1 mechanical pencil in one
• Lite Touch Ink for reduced writing effort
• Comfortable grip with balanced feel
• Perfect for planners, notes, and on-the-go work

>>> Browse authentic Mitsubishi Pencil Jetstream 4-in-1 Pen at Kiichin

3.4 Best color pen - Sun-Star Decot Overwriting Markers

The Sun-Star Decot 3 is a dual-ended marker that lets you overlap colors for playful, layered effects. Ideal for decorating planners, notes, or art projects, it offers both chisel and fine tips for creative versatility.

• Dual tips: chisel for coverage, fine for detail
• Overlapping colors for unique effects
• Vibrant, blendable ink
• Fun and functional for creative projects

3.5 Best fountain pen - Sailor Compass TUZU Adjust Fountain Pens

The Sailor TUZU Adjust revolutionizes fountain pen comfort with a grip section that rotates in 10° increments to match your hand position. Available in multiple nib sizes, it’s a personalized luxury for everyday writing.

• Adjustable grip for custom writing angle
• Available in fine, medium, and bold nibs
• Reduces hand strain during long use
• Smooth, consistent ink flow

>>> Shop Sailor Fountain Pen Tuzu Navy Medium Nib Limited Edition with confidence at Kiichin

3.6 Best Sticker - Palette-Tone Paint Palette Stickers

Inspired by watercolor palettes, the Palette-Tone Paint Palette Stickers bring soft, artistic charm to journals, planners, and scrapbooks. They’re perfect for layering or adding pops of color.

• Soft, painterly colors
• Ideal for decoration and layering
• Works on planners, scrapbooks, and cards
• Lightweight and easy to store

3.7 Best Stamp - Pokkori Pop-Up Stamp

The Pokkori Pop-Up Stamp adds instant personality to your pages. With a fun pop-up design, it’s easy to use and perfect for quick embellishments.

• Playful 3D pop-up design
• Quick and clean stamping
• Ideal for journals and crafts
• Compact and portable

3.8 Best Masking Tape - mt Upcycle Tape

Made from repurposed materials, mt Upcycle Tape combines eco-friendliness with the creativity it is known for. Perfect for decorating, labeling, or gift wrapping.

• Made from recycled materials
• Strong adhesion but easy removal
• Variety of colors and patterns
• Great for decoration and organization

3.9 Best Scissors - One-Piece Cap Kids’ Scissors 

Designed for safety and ease of use, the One-Piece Cap Kids’ Scissors are perfect for young learners. The integrated cap keeps blades safe when not in use.

• Safe one-piece molded design
• Built-in blade cap
• Lightweight for small hands
• Durable construction for long use

3.10 Best Cutter Knife - 2-Way Opener “Akeru Key”

Shaped like a key, the Akeru Key is a 2-way opener that’s both practical and portable. It’s ideal for opening packages or letters on the go.

• Compact key-shaped design
• 2-way cutting function
• Safe and easy to carry
• Perfect for everyday use

4. FAQs - People also ask about the Japanese stationery awards related facts

These are some of the most common questions people have about the Japanese stationery awards and related stationery culture in Japan. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering this fascinating world, the answers below will help you understand the awards, their impact, and Japan’s stationery scene.

4.1 What are the Japanese stationery awards?

The Japanese stationery awards are annual recognitions given by leading stationery retailers, experts, and enthusiasts in Japan. They honor products that excel in design, functionality, and innovation. Categories range from Grand Prize winners to specific items like pens, tapes, and stamps, guiding buyers toward the best stationery each year.

4.2 What is the best Japanese stationery brand?

“Best” depends on personal needs, but frequent Japanese stationery awards winners include Uni Mitsubishi Pencil, Zebra, Pilot, Sailor, and King Jim. These brands are celebrated for blending Japanese craftsmanship, creative design, and reliable performance, making them favorites among students, professionals, and stationery collectors worldwide.

4.3 Why is Japanese stationery so cute?

Japanese stationery is “cute” because it combines playful aesthetics, pastel colors, charming characters, fun shapes with practical usability. Brands design products that are both visually delightful and functional, creating items like character-themed pens, decorative masking tapes, and compact organizers that bring joy to everyday tasks.

4.4 Why is Japan famous for stationery?

Japan’s stationery reputation comes from a long tradition of precision manufacturing and innovation. From smooth quick-dry inks to rotating mechanical pencils, Japanese brands prioritize usability, aesthetics, and durability. This commitment to detail makes Japanese stationery beloved not only at home but also by enthusiasts around the world.

4.5 What is the largest stationery event in Japan?

The International Stationery & Office Products Fair Tokyo (ISOT) is Japan’s biggest stationery trade show. Held annually, it brings together manufacturers, retailers, and fans to explore the latest innovations, trends, and award-winning products, including many recognized in the Japanese stationery awards.

The Japanese stationery awards 2025 once again prove why Japan remains a global leader in blending creativity with everyday practicality. From eco-friendly pen cases to precision-engineered writing tools, each winning product reflects the dedication of Japanese makers to elevating even the simplest stationery into something inspiring. Whether you’re a collector, a student, or someone who simply enjoys the pleasure of well-crafted tools, these awards offer a trusted guide to your next favorite find.