I really enjoy the hosts banter, intuitive discussions, and knowledgeable insights. It’s really cool that a podcast can still paint a clear picture of the writing instruments discussed.

CY inserted himself into all of the BLM issues, from Japan, on Instagram and went so far as to publicly shame, in his Instagram Stories, members of the Instagram fountain pen community who had views differing from his regarding Covid. I do not respect that. Agree with him or not, his fountain pen Instagram should not have been the platform for these kinds of comments. CY is elitist. The podcast is always much better when guests are on.

I only recently found this podcast, but am quite enjoying catching up on the backlist with Fudefan and CY as they discuss the world of Fountain Pen enthusiasts in Japan. They are relaxed in delivery, but are very well informed on happenings in the business — from retail to manufacturing. They also share their own passions, whether it is inks or nibs or grinds. I also appreciate that they consider ethical aspects of the hobby. They also seem to have fun — networking and reporting on pen shows. Highly recommend this fresh podcast.

The podcasters discuss Japanese fountain (and dip) pens, inks, and paper, sometimes also discussing Korean ink and The occasional Chinese pen and ink. The podcasters know that many of their listeners are not in Asia, and often offer information about where to purchase some of the items they discuss—and they also often share information about which sellers and makers speak English. Shoutout too to Alsea’s YouTube channel, and Jacob’s blog for some beautiful and relaxing eye-candy to complement Tokyo Inklings audio content. It’s not all just about buying—it’s a great ‘stationery appreciation’ course with no exams or papers to write. It *has* made me want to study Japanese.

Started this podcast at the beginning of the year and haven’t missed any episodes since! Love hearing about what’s been going on in the fountain pen world, and especially in Japan. But CY and Jacob also tackle topics globally, so I always come away with new insights (and a growing wishlist!). Working backwards through this amazing library!

I am a relative novice and some of the technical details are over my head but I’m learning as I go along. Really interesting to hear about the Japanese pen scene- the motherland where a good deal of my favorite products are from. Always amazed by the people in the pen world they have access to and the lengths they’ll go to in order to satisfy their curious minds. I usually don’t like podcasts with multiple people on at once but I find the guests very entertaining and even in heated discussions everyone gets a chance to chime in. I have to laugh at fact there are controversies in the pen world but happy that in this community they are manageable ones. Great job!

This is the perfect podcast for an introduction/update to Japanese fountain pens, ink, stationery and Japanese related pen shows/fairs. Highly recommend prior to traveling to Japan or to learn more about the Japanese fountain pen community. Just love it. CY and Jacob do a fantastic job of keeping you up to date and entertained. They have an excellent balance to one another’s personalities. They put in the research time and effort to ensure they are giving you an informed outlook. Guests appearances by Akane, @inky.rocks and @miraikat really livens things up.each one has their own specialty and I can’t help but laugh out loud when the whole team gets going. This podcast is sure to entertain just as much as it informs.

This podcast is excellent! I need to take notes because the amount of information provided is immense. I am amazed at how knowledgeable these guys are about my newest obsession, fountain pens! One thing I would love to hear is where I should go when I travel to Japan next time. What stationary stores should I visit? Where can I find the best or most unique fountain pen and stationary experiences? I hear a lot of places mentioned, but a list of must sees or must dos would be perfect for future tourists! Thank you for all your hard work in sharing your knowledge!

Thank you and keep up the good work!

I have been listening to the Tokyo Inklings podcast since episode one and it has been a must-listen ever since. I look forward to it every two weeks. CY and Jacob are so informative and the perspective they provide into the stationery and fountain pen world in Japan and Asia is simply second to none. They are so well informed and well connected into the business and hobbyist community. I get so much out of each episode that I often listen through more than once to catch all the details. It’s really an insider’s insider perspective and yet accessible to any fountain pen enthusiast. Look no further for the best news, discussion and even business analysis on the Japanese fountain pens, ink and paper! You won’t find a podcast as good as this. Thank you CY and Jacob!

As much as I love fountain pens, I never thought I’d appreciate listening to a podcast about pens! CY and Jacob do a great job of presenting the current happenings in the fountain pen world in a way that captures how dynamic and exciting this community is. I thought I’d only be tempted to consume more and more but the information presented has allowed me to be an informed consumer. My fountain pen related purchases since listening have come with more intention, confidence, and appreciation for the stories and craftsmanship behind them. Thank you for sharing your time, knowledge, and passion for people around the world to enjoy for free.

I recently finished binging all the episodes in this podcast and am left feeling sad that I have nothing to listen to and excited for new episodes around the corner. What makes this podcast so good, in my opinion, is the mix of technical analysis, personal experience, and opinionated thoughts into an area of the stationery world that not a lot of us in the West have a view into. Thank you for making this podcast and keep up the great work!

It's always a treat to catch up with CY and Jacob on all things fountain pen related in Japan. They and their fellow friends and enthusiasts all come with different backgrounds, focuses, and opinions that make for a great discussion. Hands down my favorite podcast, keep up the great work!

I love listening to this podcast, informative and entertaining (my favorite commute podcast). If you are into fountain pens, or just getting into the hobby this podcast is a must! It is well researched and dynamic. As a fountain pen/stationary enthusiast, I enjoy learning about the Japanese stationary scene and everything from paper to glass pens and Chinese brands. I encourage everyone to subscribe and review this show, they are awesome!

The hosts are entertaining and very knowledgeable about Japanese pens and inks. They cover the pens themselves as well as the goings on at Japanese pen companies and smaller artisan makers. They also talk about aspects of Japanese life that offer a glimpse into a different world. If you like to keep up to date about the latest Japanese, Chinese, and Taiwanese pens, from high-end and custom makers to inexpensive pens, this podcast is a great listen. They also talk about exotic nibs such as cross point grinds, and somewhat enigmatic characters such as Wagner pen club leader Mori-san and nib master Nagahara.

All jokes aside, I kept forgetting to review this wonderful podcast. In terms of fountain pen related stuff you can’t get any better than this. It’s funny and it’s juicy (as in informational and opinionated). I particularly appreciate, like many other reviews already mentioned, how the hosts delve into the facts behind opinions. Granted, it takes a lot of time/dedication (like looking at official reports) to say more than “I like this, it feels different, pretty pen but expensive etc..” but the end result is that listeners can go home feeling like they learned some facts from which they can form their own educated opinions which may or may not coincide with the hosts’. It also helps that both hosts try a lot of unorthodox stuff like nib transplant/ modification etc, so you get some useful infos you can’t easily get elsewhere. All in all, can’t say enough good things about it, and hope you guys can keep it going in the foreseeable future.

First heard about Tokyo Inkings from The Pen Addict. CY and Jacob have a calm and soothing chemistry that work really well together. They are well researched and well knowledge about the Japanese Fountain Pen scene. One of the few podcasts that I feel safe having my sons listen to and try to also join me on this hobby. Always a pleasure to catch up on the latest episode. A couple of jolly good fellows…

This was the first fountain pen podcast I listened to and will always be a favorite. CY and Jacob are an amazing amalgam of friends I’d like to go pen and paper shopping with, investigative reporters who take the time to track down and verify information direct from the source instead of passing on heresy or speculation, and news reporters keeping me informed about new pen and paper products and trends. Additionally they seem to have little concern about not offending people which is refreshing. LOL. They simply tell it like it is. I find their authenticity and friendly banter (even when disagreeing) makes for a charming podcast I’m able to learn a lot from. They cover everything from events, to places to shop, places not to shop, historical aspects of pen and paper companies, the people who have molded the industry into what it has become, and more. Every episode is fun and interesting. Thank you so much to both of you for putting in the time and effort to create such a high quality podcast.

Just started listening and really enjoying the deeper discussions and the great perspectives offered by the hosts—especially their insight into the details of Japanese stationery businesses.

There’s much to admire in this podcast. It is interesting to see the world of Japanese pens and stationery through the eyes of two genial experts. What is especially impressive is the balance between information, news, and new products: very hard to manage. A podcast not just driven by new products. Very welcome and consistently interesting. I always look forward. Thank you.

Alice followed a rabbit into wonderland. I followed CY down the fountain pen rabbit hole. My pockets are now considerably lighter but I have some sparkly fountain pens that bring me joy. But as with all hobbies, the joy is exponential when shared with a fellow enthusiast. CY and Jacob have a way of putting you at ease as they give you a tour through Japan’s fountain pen scene. Their playful banter makes you feel as though you’re in the company of good friends, and their knowledge and expertise is invaluable to the fountain pen devotee. I cannot recommend their podcast enough!

Tokyo Inklings is a must-listen podcast for anyone interested in Japanese fountain pens and stationery. It used to be that US pen shows consisted of lots of old men and their smelly old Parker 51s. Now there seems to be a younger and more-diverse generation of pen geeks interested in more colorful pens -- this podcast is for them. Two things I love about this podcast: 1. That Jacob and CY take the time to seek out other fountain pen artisans and purveyors and ask them smart questions on the behalf of their listeners. Their questions show deep respect for others in the community, and the insights are not something I could get anywhere else. 2. That Tokyo Inklings podcast breaks down the business side of fountain pens and stationery, making phone calls for business intelligence, or finding interpreting corporate reports for us. Again, nowhere else can we get this level of detail.

I’m really enjoying listening to these podcast episodes on my way to work or even while I journal. I don’t have many people close to me that are fountain pen enthusiasts so this is a great way to interact with other people who love the hobby.

A very fun and entertaining insight into the world of fountain pens. Demystifying the topics of nib grinding, Japanese pens, inks, and more! The episodes regarding Nagaharan-san’s insights and thoughts on writing and philosophy of names were fascinating. I hope to see more! As a side note, I find the extreme silence when no one is talking to be almost “too quiet.” So much so that I often don’t know if my phone accidentally disconnected or the podcast is still playing.. This may just be personal, though! :D

Gents, Please Keep at it. I listen to your podcast every time. I’d like to hear more of your opinions on papers and your thoughts on differences in quality right out of the box among pilot platinum and sailor. Also, if either of you or your guests have any experience with Hakase. Dan

I was going to give this a 4-star review so that Jacob could feel like it was more realistic but I didn’t want to mess with the overall podcast rating, as I do believe it’s a 5-star podcast 😂 I always enjoy listening in on the Japanese pen scene and hearing CY’s, Jacob’s, and their guest stars’ takes on new pens, old pens, and inks! I like how everyone has their distinct tastes, but with some overlap. It’s representative of the larger pen world and their agreements and disagreements make for much more interesting listening. Also, I’m here for the politics! Nothing is apolitical and it’s important to use your platform for what you believe in. Keep on being opinionated, awesome, and creative!

I am fascinated by the way they approach the fountain pen hobby. While there are the usual updates on what brands came up with what, the two have excellent knowledge of the culture driving these releases, which can be challenging for some to understand. This podcast unfolds the culture behind different groups of collectors/enthusiasts/makers across the spectrum and delivers their honest opinion on these subjects. CY is a very hands-on person who does many inspiring tinkerings, and he will sometimes provide us with fascinating insights. I believe this level of personalization is really at the core of the fountain pen experience, and I am glad that there are people who are willing to share their experiences on a podcast. Last but not least, I think I have a lot in common with Jacob in terms of style preference and approach to collection. His Instagram and blog are filled with stunning photographs that can sometimes put the manufacturers to shame. Super thankful for the show, Keep it up! thom

Too much corona talk

The hosts take us to a part of the fountain pen hobby that most of us can only gaze at from afar. One day I dream of shopping for pens in Japan, but until then CY and Jacob keep my interest piqued, and do a great job of describing the pens and stores, from a Japanese perspective.

This is a unique and delightful foray into the universe of Japanese pens, inks, paper and culture. Thanks to you CY , Jacob and wonderful guests for your unique content , extensive knowledge and excellent podcast.

CY and Jacob, bravo for such an amazing podcast! I learn so much from you two and your guests every episode. As a fountain pen podcaster myself, I know how much work goes into what you do, so I really commend you for the research and effort you put in to make Tokyo Inklings accessible and fun! Can’t wait to make it to Japan one day soon to go to these stores and shows with you.

I’m new to fountain pens and I’ve learned a lot listening to Tokyo Inklings. Really appreciate the first-hand accounts of their experiences visiting various pen and ink shows, as well as their experiences writing with various fountain pen brands. The episode on Sailor LE, and the most-recent episode on Pilot LE, as well as the up-to-date news on pen releases are a great guide for fountain pen enthusiasts.

Funny, cute, informative podcast about the japanese fountain pen scene that is often inaccessible due to language barrier for western audience. CY and Jacob are extremely well informed on not only the news but also the fun dramas of the world of fps and inks in Japan. Great balance between the two hosts makes it enjoyable and fun to listen to. If you love fountain pens, it’s definitely worth a try. If you love japanese fountain pens you MUST give it a try. My only sadness is that it’s only updated once every two weeks — 😂 I jest, it takes a lot of effort to make content like this. There is no shortage of quality here!

I love these two guys. One is charming and laid back and one is brashly funny and very opinionated. Really great podcast around Japanese pens and stationary 🖤

Tokyo Inklings is not just my favorite pen or stationery podcast, it is actually simply my favorite podcast. It is equally informative and easy to listen to. The insight into the Japanese pen world is fantastic, and so is the rapport between CY & Jacob and the rest of the Tokyo Pen Gang. Listening is like hanging out with your friends who just happen to be super up to date on all of Japan’s latest pen news. A fortnightly bright spot.

I started listening to other popular pen podcasts and when I stumbled upon Tokyo Inklings I became hooked. I am learning quite a lot about Japanese pens and fountain pens in general from CY and Jacob. After listening to all episodes so far I have started moving nibs around on some pens and have a Moonman T1 on order. Now, if I can find some Sailor nibs to move around some pens. Thanks and wish the best of luck to you both!

Very thoughtful and thorough overview of the Japanese scene that’s especially helpful for westerners new to this area of writing instruments and ephemera. Thanks so much for opening the door, well done!

It’s nice to get updates on the Japanese FP scene from folks who live there! Always fun to listen!

As an American I enjoy the international perspective on this hobby, and learning more about Japan and Asia in general in the context of pens and stationary. Nicely done!

This podcast brings the latest news about developments in the fountain pen world in Japan to English speakers, including insights into the economics of the business and the culture of Japan. A must-listen for any collector of modern fountain pens or inks. Two great guys with lots of knowledge abs love for the hobby.

Light hearted podcast focused on Japanese stationary. Offers a rare glimpse in English to all the wonders often hidden to the rest of the world. CY and Jacob offer unique views of how they navigate through the stationary Mecca known as Japan. Special guests offer even more ways to experience the stationary bliss. It’s a joy to listen to but a word of warning you wallet could experience some significant weight loss.

Always look forward to it every other week

Obviously, depending on where you are in the world, Cy and Jacob may actually be much closer to you, but sitting here on the East coast of the US, the goings on in the Japanese and other Asian stationery markets can feel very distant, even though they can have a big impact on the US market. I love listening to the Tokyo Inklings share information about the Japanese market, both in terms of big corporate moves as well as just hearing what the average Japanese stationery aficionado is using these days.

This podcast is a delight and gets so much right. Easy, relaxed chemistry between the two hosts and a flowing, knowledgeable discussion on the pens and inks of Japan. The hosts can debate trends and attitudes; they supply fascinating nuggets of information and background; they can discuss the details and intricacies of both pens and inks. A new pen or acquisition is not just enjoyed, it is appreciated for its details and the commentary frequently adds to the understanding of the culture and art of the Japanese pen world. Tokyo Inklings is a magnificent contribution - please keep it up!

Pens not politics. 👎🏻

It was great to hear about this podcast as I have always been into Japanese stationary but never knew how to gain the specifics and information on what to look out for and where to find it. Tokyo Inklings provides that knowledge. Not only do they hit on stationary though, they open up the Japanese culture and provide insight to a land I otherwise may have missed out looking into. Can’t recommend enough.

But such a joy to listen to!

CY and Jacob do a stellar job of bringing you everything new/old/interesting about the fountain pen community in Japan and beyond. Easily one of my favorite podcasts about the fountain pen community. Worth a listen and worth starting from the beginning. They just started out so it’s not hard to breeze through them to catch up.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in stationery! CY and Jacob provide informative takes on nearly every type of stationery you can think of as well as what the Japanese stationery scene and market is like. My favorite parts are when they talk in detail about the people (vendors, makers, influencers) behind the products that we love, and how their stories have helped shape the things we consume.

Tokyo Inklings provides a great insight to the Japanese pen users/collectors community, which is hard to learn about due the language barrier. CY and Jacob provide interesting viewpoints into the developments in Japan that can reach out the US pen user/collector community. I learned a lot!