A traditional Japanese HANKO seal from Kamakura
makes the perfect, personalized keepsake
in the heart of Kamakura, traditional Japanese culture not only endures, it flourishes. Here you’ll find historic temples, shops and statues with origins that can be traced back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333), when samurai ruled the nation. As Japan’s capital during this time, Kamakura became an important center for thedissemination of hanko culture. What better souvenir from this great city than a custom hanko of your own?

The Kamakura Hanko Difference
While you can find hanko almost anywhere, Kamakura Hanko offers a truly unique service. All production processes are handled inhouse, including character entry, rough engraving, finishing, stamping and certificate creation. What’s more, all seal stocks are blessed at one of Kamakura's most important shrines to ensure its new owner is endowed with good fortune. For an extra good luck boost, your name can be stylized to create an auspicious design – said to improve your chances in love, business, and other areas in life. Regardless of whether you believe in gaining luck like this, a handcrafted hanko is an excellent way to give a good impression to others.
JAPANESE SEAL HANKO
What Is a Hanko, Anyway?
A hanko is, in short, a seal that is used in place of signatures on offcial documents and range from cheap, mass-produced plastic items to ornate, handcrafted works of art made with wood, bone, and
other materials. Hanko are used by companies, shrines and temples (those with goshuincho will recognize the distinctive red seals in their books), and by individuals.Hanko vs Inkan — Inkan is technically the word for the red mark created by the hanko, but the two terms are often used interchangeably.
Here is a breakdown of the most common uses for personal hanko:
A Souvenir That Lasts a Lifetime
there are also "YUIN" stamp that can be used for fun. It can be used for souvenirs and gifts.
How about trying to use traditional Japanese crafts as a fun memorial way to remember your trip to Japan?