MOVIE
The Art of Hanko
— Watch a Master Engraver at Work

For this special episode, Mazda Discovers comes home, to Japan, the birthplace of Takumi craftsmanship. We travel to Kamakura to meet Tsukino, one of Japan’s most awarded and nationally certified hanko artisans. In Japan, the hanko is far more than a signature. Registered with the government, recognised by the state, it carries identity, family and legacy in a single pressed mark, the continuation of a craft stretching back five thousand years. Tsukino works with engraving blades inherited from his grandfather and father, dividing the four stages of the craft with his wife: he designs and carves, she finishes and presses. His philosophy is simple and demanding, total focus on the present moment, and harmony with the nature of every material that passes through his hands. It’s a philosophy Mazda recognises. The same patience, the same precision, the same belief that genuine things captivate the human heart. #MazdaDiscovers #Takumi #Hanko #Kamakura #MX5 #SoulRedCrystal Official video of Mazda Motor Europe. Model availability varies per country. Find your local Mazda website here: https://www.mazda.eu/en/ Follow us on Instagram and X: @mazdaeurope / @mazda_europe

Immerse yourself in the profound artistry of the Hanko, the traditional Japanese personal seal, and discover a world where masterful craftsmanship meets timeless beauty. Through an exclusive video, we invite you to explore the intricate process of Hanko creation and witness the dedication and skill of Japan's revered artisans. This video offers a rare insight into the workshops where Hanko are meticulously brought to life. You will witness the unparalleled precision and profound expertise of our master craftsmen, whose hands are guided by generations of inherited knowledge as they transform raw materials into exquisite works of art. Every stroke and carve is a testament to their unwavering commitment to perfection, reflecting the deep-rooted spirit of Japanese monozukuri, or craftsmanship. A Hanko is more than just a tool for official documentation; it is a cherished symbol of identity, a personal signature imbued with cultural significance. It is an enduring legacy that embodies the beauty of Japanese aesthetics and the rich tapestry of its traditions. Through this visual journey, we aim to convey the technical brilliance and profound artistic value that elevate each Hanko to the status of a true objet d'art. We encourage you to experience this captivating presentation and gain a deeper appreciation for the unparalleled artistry and enduring legacy of the hanko, which is a cornerstone of Japanese culture and a testament to its vibrant heritage. Kamakura Hanko offers a truly unique service. All production processes are handled in-house, including character entry, rough engraving, finishing, stamping and certificate creation. All Japanese Hanko seals are blessed at one of Kamakura’s most important shrines to ensure new owners are endowed with good fortune. Your name can also be stylized to create an auspicious design – said to improve your chances in love, business, and other areas in life.