It was in a pen & stationery store in Portland where I first heard the word "Hobonichi". My daughter said she wanted one and I looked around the store wondering what it could be. Was it a pen? A brand of ink? I didn't let on right away that I had no idea what a Hobonichi was but as she walked toward a table of notebooks, well, that was my first clue, it's a notebook! I said, "I'll buy that for you" since her birthday was right around the corner. She looked hesitated but then said sure! She picks up a notebook and a cover, I take them both to the register and it rings up for $125! I was shocked. I hid my sticker shock surprise but sure did wonder what the heck is so special about this notebook!
Fast forward, I now have my own Hobonichi, which my daughter gifted to me (I didn't get a 'fancy' cover, though, but I'm sure that will change!). Everything I'm about to write about this notebook is from someone who doesn't know the history, the trendiness aspect nor what's really special about it.
Days 1-30: I didn't use it!
I had to get over the hurdle of where I seem to cherish a thing and think I'll just keep it new - like I want to freeze frame the thing. Anyway, I finally got over myself and opened it up and started to use it.
There's a section of all the months of the year, followed by the weeks of the month and each day of the month. So you can write in ALL of the places! At first, I just used the month at a Glance, then I realized I liked the Days section the most! I have it open on my table and I write down the most random things, what I did that day, a quick note on how I'm feeling, whatever needs doing. Now that I own and use my 2026 Hobonichi daily, I've come a long way in understanding the appeal…they are made in Japan, so after you factor in fun things like the tariffs and shipping costs, it helps to explain the cost a bit more.
I write with my Kakuno fountain pen and LOVE it. The paper is "fountain pen" friendly which I wasn't 100% sure what that meant, but I understand now, the ink won't bleed through and the paper has an almost silky feel to it. I get it! I get the vibe now. Will I buy another one? You betcha!
Sharon