Have you ever seen scenes in Japanese films or manga where a small cylinder is pressed against a piece of paper?

It is used as a tool to express vows.

For example, when getting married, taking on a big debt or inheriting an estate!

That cylinder is a stamp with your name engraved on the bottom, it is used in the same way as a signature.

In Japan it is called “Hanko” *.

It is used to identify individuals in government or business.

*Correctly, the cylinder is called "In-sho" and the stamped shape is called "In-ei". The one used to determine whether the "In-ei" is correct is called the "In-kan".

Hanko originated in the Mesopotamia. It was then introduced to Japan around 57 AD.

Hanko were used in many different countries, but now Japan is the only country that still uses them.

Hanko are small and light and can be easily printed with Kanji (Chinese character), Hiragana and Katakana (both Japanese character).
So Hanko is probably one of the most recommended Japanese souvenirs.

Like other tools, Hanko have long been made by craftsmen. Today, they are also made by machines.

There are four types of Hanko sold.

1. mass-produced. made by machine, sold in shops .

2. custom-made. made by machine.

3. custom-made. made by machine and craftsmen's handiwork.

4. custom-made. handcrafted by craftsmen.

In Japan, Hanko have the same legal force as signature.

So, using of mass-produced Hanko to make contracts or to manage property is discouraged.

It is better to use a handcrafts Hanko to prevent your Hanko from being forged.

If you will have own Hanko in Japan, it is better to make by 3 or 4, after consultation with the craftsman.

If you want to own a Hanko as a Japanese craft, I recommend 4.

If you want just a stamp with Japanese writing on it just as a souvenir, the 1 is also good.

Hanko has been used when people make decisions for own future.

The craftsman will engrave your name on its small face, hoping that your decision will lead you to happiness.