About

Unsodo was founded in Kyoto in 1891 as an art book publisher.The only publisher in Japan to publish handrail woodblock books,
We make various art books and crafts by utilizing the technology.
The name “Unsodo” comes from the name of Tomioka Tessai. “Unso” is a perennial plant of the Rutaceae family, and is cultivated for medicinal and ornamental purposes under the name “Wijnruit” in Southern Europe. It has long been used as a herb to protect books from pests.

History

1891
The founder, Naosaburo Yamada, became independent from the long-established bookstore Tanaka Bunkyudo, and started publishing design books in Nijo, Teramachi under the name of “Yamada Geishodo”.
1906
Established “General Partnership Unsodo” by merging with “Honda Unsodo” run by Naosaburo’s brothers.
1918
Opened Tokyo store in Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo.
1991
Celebrate the 100th anniversary
1991
Celebrate the 100th anniversary

Carving

Woodblock prints are made in the same way as Ukiyo-e printmaking techniques of the Edo period. First, carve a black line on the board, and then carve a colored board. Skilled craftsmen carve one by one.

Printing

It is the skill of the sushi master to rub 100 sheets in the same tone while balancing the overall color tone.

Woodblock print work

We have produced a number of works based on reprints of woodblocks in our collection, including ukiyoe loved around the world by artists such as Hokusai and Hiroshige, as well as works by Kasamatsu Shiro, Ito Jakuchu, and Kamisaka Sekka.
※Click on the image to open the product page.

Original stationery

Produces and sells high-quality stationery suitable for modern use from the archive of Unsodo
※Click the image to open the Unsodo’s blog. (Japanese only)

Book publishing

Published a wide range of books such as Japanese art, crafts, and photographs, including a collection of woodblock print designs from the Meiji era.
※Click on the image to open the product page.