It’s not a lipstick, it’s not a pen… it’s a “hanko”! 

Everyone who knows me will know that I love all things Japanese. From their beautiful manners (almost perfect!), their tea (so delicious!), their skincare (my favourite @shiseido!) I just love the culture, the people and everything about the country! 

So I’m sharing the hanko tradition with you today. Throughout the world, we use our handwritten signatures for signing legal documents - when we write a letter or a thank you note (a rare thing nowadays unfortunately) or even an email, we sign it in one way or another, digitally or not. For business emails many people have a personalized signature which may also state their job title after their name.  In Japan however, most businesses and individuals hold on to the traditional method of using hanko instead of a hand written signature. This centuries old tradition is considered the equivalent to a personal signature and is just as legally binding when used in any official document. 

So what is “hanko”? It’s a small engraved seal / stamp which is dipped in ink and then stamped on a document or letter and replaces the need for a signature. The stamp is engraved with the name of the person or company using it. Typically, a hanko is a small round or square shape and the ink pad which is called ‘shuniku’ is red, especially for official stamps. Everything from personal letters, delivery slips, bank documents, legal contracts, marriage licenses will have the hanko seal of approval! It is an essential part of Japanese official and personal transactions.  

There are three types of hanko:

Jitsuin is the official hanko which is legally registered and certified. It allows people to use the stamp for legal documents, contracts and purchases such as mortgages. It is certified by the authorities and comes with an official certificate. 

Ginkoin is the official hanko for financial transactions such as transferring money or opening a bank account. This hanko is registered with the bank and is a requirement when opening a business account. 

Mitomein is for personal use and will usually be used for signing personal documents, signing for a delivery at home or whenever a signature is required. This is the everyday stamp that is not registered officially and has no legal meaning. 

A hanko is more than a simple stamp on paper. Hanko are used throughout people’s lives and are unique to each person and business. They are often given as gifts on important occasions because they are considered important and necessary.

The etiquette of Hanko? The only rule is that it has to be engraved with at least part of the person’s name. Simple!! That’s why I love it!

 Julia Esteve

The Etiquette Consultant