Hanko (Seal) Day

What Is Hanko Day?

August 5th is "Hanko Day." Established by Motegi Co., Ltd., a seal trading company based in Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture, and registered with the Japan Anniversary Association, this day comes from a wordplay (goroawase) where 8 and 5 read as "ha-n-ko", sounding like the Japanese word for seal/stamp ("hanko"). The day aims to spread awareness of the importance of hanko (seals).

Why Is August 5th "Hanko Day"?

The hanko (personal seal/stamp), deeply rooted in Japanese daily life, was given an easy-to-remember date through wordplay—8 and 5 sounding like "ha-n-ko." The day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the role and culture surrounding these seals.

• Wordplay: 8 ("ha") + 5 ("n-ko") sounds like "hanko."
• Purpose: To spread awareness of the importance of hanko (seals).
• Part of daily life: Essential for contracts, official filings, and identity verification.

Types of Hanko

In Japan, different types of seals are used depending on the purpose.

• Jitsuin (registered seal): The most important seal, registered with the local municipal office.
• Bank seal: Used for opening bank accounts and conducting transactions.
• Mitomein (everyday seal): Used for receiving deliveries and simple administrative procedures.
• Shachihata: A self-inking stamp type, not recognized as an official seal.

Trivia About Hanko Day

• Japan's oldest seal: The gold seal inscribed "King of Na of Wa, vassal of Han," found on Shikanoshima Island in Fukuoka Prefecture, is regarded as Japan's oldest seal and is thought to have been given by China's Later Han dynasty in 57 AD.
• October 1 is "Seal Day": This separate day marks October 1, 1873, when a Grand Council of State decree required registered seals on official documents.
• A uniquely Japanese culture: Few countries have a seal culture as deeply woven into daily life as Japan's.
• The beauty of seal impressions: Like calligraphy, seal engraving is valued as a traditional craft.
• Coexisting with digitalization: Even as electronic signatures spread, hanko culture remains resilient.
• A range of materials: Seals come in black buffalo horn, boxwood, titanium and more, each with different durability and feel.

Ways to Enjoy Hanko Day

• Review your seals and organize the ones you actually need.
• Consider getting a new registered seal or bank seal made.
• Visit a seal shop to see craftsmen at work.
• Look into the history of seal culture.

The Tradition and Trust Carried in a Small Seal Impression

August 5th's "Hanko Day" is an opportunity to reconsider the value of the seals we use every day without much thought. Learning about the craftsmanship and cultural background behind them can make hanko feel more meaningful and special.