Hanko Signature Seals

A Name or Message Translated into Japanese Characters and Engraved onto a Stone or Wooden Stamp

A hanko seal makes a special, memorable gift for your sensei, for someone starting a new dojo, or even yourself. Each is unique and cannot be duplicated.

More than just rubber stamps--hanko horn, wood or stone seals imprinted with the bearer's name--are indispensable tools for Japanese adults in authorizing a variety of transactions.

In Japan, they are used like a signature for a Westerner, from automobile registration, to banking activities to setting up home utilities. Nearly any occasion that would call for a Westerner's signature would call for an impression of a hanko in Japan.

Hanko were formally introduced to Japan in 701 AD, but were available only to those in positions of high authority. During the early to mid-seventeenth century, hanko were adopted by the general populace.