The hanko (判子) is a traditional seal used in Japan as a substitute for a signature on official documents, contracts, and other paperwork. Typically made from materials such as boxwood, a hanko is a cylindrical piece measuring 10–20 mm in diameter, or occasionally square, with the owner’s name intricately engraved on one end. Interestingly, Japanese banknotes also feature a red hanko imprint as part of their design.
History of the Hanko
The use of hanko has ancient origins and remains deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Its history can be traced back to Mesopotamia around 5000 B.C., where seals were first used. This practice later spread to China by the end of the Warring States period (around 300 B.C.). During the Han Dynasty, seals became official tools for government officials, a tradition that continued through the Song Dynasty. Hanko were introduced to Japan during the Kamakura period and soon became essential among Japan’s feudal lords, especially the shogun, as a mark of authority. By the Edo period, stamping a hanko alongside a signature became a widespread custom, evolving into the practice we know today.
Types of Hanko
There are several types of hanko, each serving a distinct purpose:
Jitsuin (実印): The most important type, registered with the local government, used for significant transactions such as purchasing property or getting married.
Ginkōin (銀行印): Specifically for banking purposes, this seal is required to open a bank account or conduct financial transactions.
Mitomein (認印): The most common type, used for everyday tasks like acknowledging receipt of a package or signing informal documents.
Cultural Significance
The hanko holds more than just practical value—it symbolizes personal identity and serves as a mark of authenticity and proof of agreement. Each hanko is unique, often handcrafted, and features intricate designs and kanji characters that represent the owner’s name.
Modern Usage
Although electronic signatures and digital verification methods are becoming increasingly common, the hanko remains an integral part of Japanese administrative practices. Many businesses and government offices still require hanko stamps for official documents and procedures.
As a souvenir of Japanese culture
The hanko is a fascinating aspect of Japanese culture, blending history, artistry, and practicality. Nowadays, travelers make hanko as a special memento. You can choose to have your name written in one of three types of Japanese characters: Kanji (Chinese characters), Hiragana, and Katakana. Kanji has both sound and meaning. Hiragana are simplified Kanji, while Katakana is primarily used to represent foreign words in Japanese.
Sano Inbou Stamp Shop in Asakusa
This shop is located at the corner of Kasuga Street and Kiyosubashi Street, just an 8-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Station or a 1-minute walk from the A3 exit of the Subway Oedo Line at Shin-Okachimachi Station. Here, Takahiro crafts special, one-of-a-kind hanko (personal seals) made just for you.
Address: 1-5-5 Motoasakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo Opening Hour: Fri 9am to 6pm Sat. 10:30am-3pm Closed: Sunday, Publish Holiday, Some Saturday, Exhibition Day Tel/ Fax: 03 3841 7262/ 03 3845 5913 In English: https://tokyohanko.jp/e-sni.html In Japanese: https://sano-inbou.com/ec/ What else to do around the area? After ordering Hanko, you can explore Ameyoko street to grab some street food and little souvenirs. At the end of the street is Ueno area. You can visit lotus pond, Ueno zoo, The National Museum of Western Art, or Tokyo national Museum etc. #thingstodoinTokyo #thingstodoaroundUeno #japanesetutor #learnajapaneseinbrisbane #bjlcschool
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