8 Best Japanese Pens for 2025
Japanese pens have a special kind of magic. With thoughtful design, smooth ink flow, and details that quietly delight, they bring joy to even the smallest moments—like jotting a to-do list or doodling on a quiet afternoon.
Whether you’re just discovering the world of Japanese stationery or looking to add something new to your collection, here’s a lovingly curated list of the 8 best Japanese pens for 2025.
- Uni JETSTREAM Standard
- Sailor Hard Maple Fountain Pen
- Uni-ball One F Forest Series
- Pentel EnerGel Infree
- Zebra Sarasa Clip Vintage Color
- KOKUYO ME Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen
- Tombow Mono Graph Lite
- OHTO GS01 Ball Pen
- What is the best pen
Uni JETSTREAM Standard
A staple in many pencil cases, the Uni JETSTREAM continues to be one of the most beloved pens in Japan—and for good reason. Known for its ultra-smooth ink flow, quick drying time, and effortless glide, it offers the best of both ballpoint and gel worlds. Whether you're jotting down notes or journaling your thoughts, this pen brings a silky, skip-free writing experience you’ll keep coming back to.
Sailor Hard Maple Fountain Pen
A beautiful blend of nature and innovation, this fountain pen features a maple wood body enhanced with WPC technology for added strength and a smooth matte texture. Available in Natural, Indigo, and Vermilion, it pairs classic Japanese aesthetics with Sailor’s signature 21k gold nib—offering a graceful, tactile writing experience. Released as a limited edition on May 31, 2025, its timeless design makes it a meaningful addition to any stationery lover’s collection.
Uni-ball One F Forest Series
Inspired by Japan’s peaceful forests, this gel pen collection blends earthy hues with a satisfyingly weighty feel. Uni’s pigment-based ink delivers bold, fade-resistant lines—ideal for journaling or letter-writing with a touch of nature in your hand.
Pentel EnerGel Infree
Loved for its smooth ink flow and clean, modern design, the EnerGel Infree is a clear-barreled gel pen that lets you see the ink inside—simple, functional, and satisfying. It glides across the page with minimal pressure and dries quickly, making it perfect for note-taking, journaling, or your everyday writing moments. A quiet favorite among students and professionals alike.
Zebra Sarasa Clip Vintage Color
Like a cozy café in pen form, this series serves warm tones like Matcha Green and Espresso Brown. Sarasa’s quick-drying gel ink and soft rubber grip make it a favorite for daily use, whether you're sipping coffee or scribbling in your sketchbook.
KOKUYO ME Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen
Simple, stylish, and surprisingly smooth—the KOKUYO ME gel pen brings together soft matte colors and a satisfying writing feel. Its quick-drying ink is perfect for everyday use, while the slightly textured grip and clean design make it a favorite for those who value both form and function. A lovely companion for planners, notes, or quiet creative sessions.
Tombow Mono Graph Lite
The Tombow Mono Graph Lite is a sleek ballpoint pen designed for those who appreciate precision and comfort. Featuring a high-precision 5.2mm needle tip and ultra-low-viscosity oil-based ink, it delivers an exceptionally smooth writing experience. The pen's textured grip reduces slippage, ensuring a secure hold even during extended writing sessions. Available in 0.38mm and 0.5mm tip sizes, and a variety of colors including smoky hues, the Mono Graph Lite combines functionality with minimalist design, making it a reliable companion for daily writing tasks.
OHTO GS01 Ball Pen
For those who love a fine line, the OHTO Horizon Needle Point offers precision that feels almost surgical—but in the best way. The 0.3mm tip is perfect for writing small notes, filling tight planner spaces, or drawing clean lines in a sketch. It's slim, sleek, and feels just right in the hand—not flashy, but dependable. If you're the type who likes every detail to land just so, this pen might just become your daily companion.
What Is the Best Pen?
That really depends—on how you write, what you write, and what brings you joy when you do it.
Some people love a bold ink that flows fast. Others prefer a fine tip that keeps things neat. You might be drawn to the look of natural wood, or the way a pen feels balanced in your hand. Design, ink quality, grip comfort—these are all important. But in the end, the best pen is the one you reach for again and again.
So whether you choose a classic Jetstream for everyday notes, a fountain pen for mindful journaling, or a gel pen that matches your planner—trust your own rhythm. Let your pen fit your pace, your thoughts, your style.
Because stationery is personal—and that’s what makes it special.
These pens aren't just writing tools—they're companions for your thoughts, creativity, and little daily rituals. Whether you gravitate toward shimmering skies, quiet forests, or café-inspired charm, there's something in this list to match your mood and bring more joy to your stationery routine.
At ZenPop, we celebrate the magic of Japanese stationery and believe every pen has a story to tell. We hope this list helps you find your next favorite.
Explore More Japanese Pens
Curious to try one of these for yourself? Browse our store to discover beautifully curated pens, notebooks, and more—all shipped straight from Japan.
Let your pen be a little moment of delight in your day.
