Notebook Critic Tatsuhiko Tatekami Releases 'Content Notebook Guide' (Kindle Edition), Launches Notebook Circulation Service

Notebook critic Tatsuhiko Tatekami will release the 'Content Notebook Guide' (Kindle edition, ¥1,250) on July 10, 2026.

The 'Content Notebook Guide' is a collective term for the new generation of notebooks in the Reiwa era, a name coined by Daishi Ishizu, known as the 'Stationery King' (pictured on the book's obi). Its defining features include not only standard scheduling sections but also abundant space for journaling, vision-setting, and personal reflection. Many are date-specific formats. The guide introduces these next-gen notebooks through the creators' own words, featuring numerous actual layout samples to assist users in selecting the right notebook.

Simultaneously, an optional 'Notebook Circulation Service' will be offered (additional fees apply). This service allows users to borrow six notebooks featured in the guide, one at a time, for seven days each. Users can experience the actual size, color, texture, and how well the notebook fits in a bag. Limited pages allow trial writing with your own pens. Round-trip delivery will use Letter Pack Plus, enabling users to inspect details impossible to verify at retail stores or events.

Purpose and Background

One of the earliest initiatives by notebook critic Tatsuhiko Tatekami was 'Notebook Off'—a gathering that transcended the boundaries of existing notebook communities, which had previously been segmented by specific notebook brands (e.g., '○○ Notebook,' '△△ Notebook').

One particularly surprising session was on handmade notebooks. About ten years ago, participants brought notebooks of such high quality that even manufacturers might have been impressed. However, at that time, these notebooks lacked market awareness. Some were one-offs, while others produced hundreds of copies just for personal use.

Over time, 'content notebooks' emerged—a term coined by Daishi Ishizu. These are personal notebooks created by individuals, as described above. The key difference from what I saw ten years ago is the presence of a market. Creating a personal notebook is feasible with DTP technology and funds to commission a print shop.

Content notebooks, however, are structured as legitimate businesses with defined markets. This is their fundamental distinction from earlier handmade notebooks. This point is thoroughly explained in Chapter 1 of the book, which also serves as a supplementary extension of my previous work, 'Notebooks and the Japanese' (NHK Shuppan Shinsho).

Moreover, content notebooks are still in their early stages. It may take considerable time before they become commonly available in local stationery or lifestyle stores. To ensure nationwide access to information, we are releasing the guide as an e-book. Additionally, the 'Notebook Circulation Service' (separate service) allows users to experience the actual notebooks firsthand.

Service Details

The 'Content Notebook Guide' will be available on Amazon.co.jp as an e-book, ensuring accessibility from anywhere in Japan. Additionally, the 'Notebook Circulation Service,' allowing users to experience physical notebooks for seven days, will be launched simultaneously (initially for the first 20 applicants).

Pricing

The 'Content Notebook Guide' (Kindle edition) is priced at ¥1,250. It will be available on Amazon.co.jp at the following URL:

https://amzn.to/4v6ZEcv

Release date: July 10, 2026. The Notebook Circulation Service will be offered at an additional cost.

Future Outlook

With the publication of the 'Content Notebook Guide,' Tatsuhiko Tatekami aims to provide broader, multifaceted insights into the future of Japanese notebook culture and the evolution of notebooks.

Comment from the Representative

Tatsuhiko Tatekami, Notebook Critic

The 'Content Notebook Guide' is my latest work, building on my previous books 'Notebook Encyclopedia' (published by Ei Shuppan) and 'Notebooks and the Japanese' (NHK Shuppan Shinsho), where I focused on the history and culture of notebooks. Chapter 1 analyzes and introduces the historical positioning of content notebooks within Japan's notebook tradition and how they function as commercial products.

Chapter 2 features direct commentary from each notebook creator in their own words, accompanied by numerous actual writing samples.

Furthermore, the optional 'Notebook Circulation Service' allows users to experience the actual notebooks for seven days—likely the first service of its kind in Japan.