Lost in Paper, Found in Inspiration — Kamihaku in Asakusa

Have you ever heard of “Kamihaku” (Paper Expo), a popular annual event in Japan?

It’s organized by Tegamisha, the same team behind events like “Tokyo Nominoichi” and “Nunohaku.” As the name suggests, the venue is filled with all kinds of paper goods—wrapping paper, postcards, message cards—along with masking tapes, stamps, stickers, and more. The scale is impressive: four full floors packed with inspiring items.

Exhibitors are not selected through open applications, so every booth is carefully curated. Wherever you look, everything is beautifully presented—it’s honestly a bit overwhelming in the best way.

I look forward to this event every year, and this time I quickly grabbed an advance ticket as soon as they were released. The advance tickets even come with special gifts. This year’s designs were illustrated by Hikari Shimamura, and the gift changes each day:

• March 13: Clear plastic sheet

• March 14: Passport-sized notebook

• March 15: 0.5 mm ballpoint pen

All of them were adorable.

I chose to go on the first day, thinking it might be easier to explore on a weekday.

The venue was the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center in Asakusa. It’s actually within walking distance from our shop in Ryogoku—about a 30-minute walk across the Sumida River. It’s a pleasant route, with grid-like streets on the Sumida side that make it easy to walk. Once you cross into Taito City, you’ll find Sukeroku-themed decorations here and there, adding a touch of traditional charm.

As expected, Asakusa was packed with international visitors, and the venue was already crowded like a rush-hour train shortly after opening. Visitors from Taiwan and Hong Kong were everywhere. I can’t speak Cantonese, but I can recognize it—and I’m also somewhat familiar with Taiwanese Mandarin, thanks to the many workshop participants we’ve had from those regions.

One thing that stood out this year was the popularity of 3D stickers. I couldn’t even get close enough to see them properly because of the crowd surrounding those booths, but it was clear how popular they were. I had seen them online before, but seeing the excitement in person was something else. As always, there were also plenty of charming stamps.

My main goal was to find paper to use as props for photography—ideally something large, stylish, and preferably traditional Japanese paper (washi). I was also hoping to find letterpress cards.

With four floors to explore, I had to navigate through the crowds efficiently. At the entrance, visitors receive a paper wristband that allows re-entry, so I put it on and quickly made my way around.

My first stop every year is KNOOP WORKS. They offer beautifully designed stationery like receipts, forms, to-do lists, and scheduling tools—so attractive that you almost forget they’re for work. This time, I found prefecture-themed cards I had missed last year and picked up ones representing Tokyo, Yamanashi, and Kumamoto, where our artisans are based.

Seitosha, a brand I’ve been connected with since their time in Sumida, had a large booth as well. It was so crowded that I didn’t get a chance to say hello, but I silently cheered them on from afar. Their “fill-a-bag” paper corner had a long line—understandably so, since all of their designs are lovely.

I was determined to find beautiful paper. I had already researched that WACCA, known for their elegant patterned washi, would be exhibiting. I found their booth after making my way through the crowd. Their washi is truly stunning, but unfortunately, they didn’t have large sheets this time. Instead, I bought some printed paper featuring the designer’s lettering and another with a flowing, delicate pattern.

At OEDA LETTERPRESS, I picked up a black card box.

At PAPYRUS Stationery, I spent a long time trying to choose a pen but couldn’t decide in the end. I think I’ll visit their shop in Yamanashi someday.

What I Found at Kamihaku

The dog and cat patterned paper is from fredelig.
I already used it for my latest photoshoot—it worked beautifully.

The venue was also full of fun activities like workshops and stamp rallies.
Next time, I think I’ll visit on a day off and take my time exploring.

It looks like Kamihaku will be held in Sendai this April.

Tegamisha also hosts other events throughout the year.
The Typography Festival 2026 in July is a must for me—I’ll definitely be going.
And in May, there’s the Tokyo Nominoichi, as well as the Hobby Show.

Some of my friends from Taiwan and Hong Kong are even planning to visit Japan for these events.

From spring to summer, it’s shaping up to be a very exciting season.