Top 5+ brush pen Japan for calligraphy, art & everyday writing

Brush pen Japan has long been admired for its elegance, fluid ink flow, and versatility in both calligraphy and everyday writing. Each stroke carries the artistry and innovation of Japanese stationery, making it a trusted companion for beginners, artists, and professionals alike. In this article, Kiichin introduces you to the top 5+ Japanese brush pens, where tradition meets modern design, helping you find the perfect tool for expression, creativity and style.

1. Top 5+ Top-pick brush pen Japan for multipurposes

Japanese stationery brands are world leaders because they combine artistry with technology. Below are the pens you should consider if you want precision, quality, and style in one tool.

1. Kuretake No. 13 Fountain Brush Pen
2. Tombow Dual Brush Pens
3. Kuretake Zig Fudebiyori Brush Pen
4. Pentel Fude Touch Brush Sign Pen
5. Kuretake Bimoji Fude Pen

1.1 Kuretake No. 13 Fountain Brush Pen

The Kuretake No. 13 is one of the most iconic brush pens, blending the sophistication of a fountain pen with the flexibility of a calligraphy brush. It is ideal for professionals who want precise control and fluid ink flow without the mess of traditional brushes.

>>> Also explore Kuretake DP150-8B Tabletop Brush No. 8 - Japanese Fountain Pen at Kiichin

What makes it unique is its bristle tip that mimics authentic brush strokes. Compared to disposable brush pens, the Kuretake No. 13 is refillable, durable, and provides a consistent writing experience for shodo practice or professional artwork. For those who love smooth writing tools beyond brush pens, exploring Japanese gel pens is also a great idea to complement your collection.

• Tip type: Natural bristle brush
• Ink type: Water-based black ink
• Refillable: Yes
• Price range: Mid to high-end
• Best user type: Professionals, shodo learners, serious artists

1.2 Tombow Dual Brush Pens

The Tombow Dual Brush Pen is famous for its versatility. With a brush tip on one end and a fine bullet tip on the other, this pen allows you to switch between bold strokes and fine details in one tool.

>>> Buy Tombow Dual Brush Pen Set 108 Colors Pencil Brush Pen Style now for the best deal

Its water-based ink blends smoothly, making it popular among illustrators, journaling lovers, and designers. The wide color selection means you can achieve watercolor-like effects, making it a favorite for modern calligraphy and colorful Japanese brush pen art.

• Tip type: Flexible nylon brush + fine bullet tip
• Ink type: Water-based dye ink
• Refillable: No
• Price range: Budget to mid-range
• Best user type: Creative artists, hobbyists, lettering enthusiasts

1.3 Kuretake Zig Fudebiyori Brush Pen

The Zig Fudebiyori is all about vibrancy. With its strong felt tip and pigment-based ink, it creates bold, fade-resistant lines that are perfect for decorative projects.

>>> Discover Kuretake Zig Clean Color Dot Set Water-Based Pens TCSD-6100/6V at today’s best price

Unlike cheaper alternatives, this pen ensures smooth application without fraying quickly. It’s often used for scrapbooking, card-making, and lettering projects where longevity and color intensity matter. Many enthusiasts who use brush pens also enjoy trying different Japanese pens for journaling or note-taking, since they deliver the same balance of quality and style.

• Tip type: Firm felt brush tip
• Ink type: Pigment-based, fade-resistant
• Refillable: No
• Price range: Affordable
• Best user type: Beginners, crafters, journaling fans

1.4 Pentel Fude Touch Brush Sign Pen

The Pentel Fude Touch is a gateway pen for anyone who wants to try brush lettering without investing heavily. Despite its small size, it delivers expressive strokes and makes practicing line variation simple.

>>> Shop Pentel Brush Touch 30-Color Felt Pen Set SES15C-30STH today for best price

Its consistent ink flow and flexible tip make it particularly loved by students and hobbyists. Compared to larger brush pens, it offers more control, making it a smart starting choice for those new to brush lettering.

• Tip type: Flexible felt brush
• Ink type: Water-based ink
• Refillable: No
• Price range: Budget-friendly
• Best user type: Students, beginners, journaling lovers

1.5 Kuretake Bimoji Fude Pen

The Bimoji series is designed for writers who want to experience the essence of calligraphy with modern convenience. Its ergonomic grip and controlled ink flow help users create beautiful strokes without the steep learning curve of traditional brushes.

It’s especially suited for learners and hobbyists exploring Japanese brush pen art. The pen’s tip flexibility allows smooth transitions from thin to bold strokes, helping beginners understand brush dynamics naturally.

• Tip type: Felt or nylon brush (varies)
• Ink type: Water-based black ink
• Refillable: Some models
• Price range: Mid-range
• Best user type: Calligraphy learners, hobbyists, casual writers

2. Why should you choose Japanese ink brush pen over other regular pens?

Choosing a Japanese ink brush pen over a regular pen comes with clear advantages:

• Superior craftsmanship: Every pen is a result of Japan’s long history of stationery excellence.
• Advanced ink technology: Smooth, fast-drying inks reduce smudging and maintain clarity.
• Versatility: One tool for calligraphy, manga, sketches, and everyday notes.
• Ergonomic design: Lightweight bodies and balanced grips minimize fatigue, even with long writing sessions.

Unlike generic pens, Japanese brush pens are not just writing tools - they are creative instruments designed to inspire. And if you want flexibility, Japanese erasable pens can be a handy option, letting you correct mistakes while still enjoying smooth Japanese ink technology.

3. How to choose the best brush pen Japan for your needs?

When searching for your ideal pen, keep these factors in mind:

• Tip type: Bristle tips offer traditional feel, while felt tips provide easy control.
• Ink type: Pigment-based for permanence, dye-based for flexibility and blending.
• Refillable vs. disposable: Refillable options are more eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
• Purpose: Calligraphy, art, journaling, or professional brush pen Japan projects.
• Budget & brand reputation: Reliable brands like Kuretake, Pentel, and Tombow ensure consistent quality.

By considering these aspects, you’ll find a pen that matches your creative style and long-term goals.

4. How to use and maintain your Japanese brush pen for long-term use?

To ensure your Japanese brush pen remains a reliable tool for both writing and artwork, it’s important to know the right way to use and care for it. Below are some practical tips to maximize its performance and longevity.

To get the most from your brush pen:

Start with a relaxed grip, keeping your hand steady but not tense. Hold the pen at about 45° for balanced ink flow, and practice both light and heavy pressure to control line variation.

To maintain your pen:

• Always recap it after use.
• Store horizontally to prevent leaks.
• Avoid pressing too hard to preserve the tip.
• Clean the tip gently if clogged.
• Use only compatible refills for refillable models.

With proper care, even budget-friendly pens can last long and deliver consistent performance.

5. FAQs - People also ask about facts related to brush pen Japan

Curious about brush pen Japan and how it connects tradition with modern creativity? Here are some of the most common questions answered in a clear and friendly way.

5.1 What is a Japanese brush pen?

A Japanese brush pen is a modern writing tool designed to mimic the elegant strokes of traditional calligraphy brushes, making shodo more accessible in daily life.

5.2 Why is shodo important in Japan?

Shodo goes beyond handwriting, it embodies mindfulness, discipline, and aesthetic beauty, reflecting centuries of cultural tradition in Japan.

5.3 How to hold a Japanese brush pen?

Hold the pen at a slight angle, applying gentle pressure for thin strokes and increasing pressure for bold, expressive lines.

5.4 What is the difference between brush pen and calligraphy?

Calligraphy is the art form, while brush pens are modern instruments that allow both beginners and professionals to practice calligraphy with ease.

5.5 What age is the brush pen for?

Brush pens are suitable for all ages. Children can enjoy playful writing or doodling, while adults can explore serious Japanese brush pen art and calligraphy practice.

Exploring a brush pen Japan means discovering a tool that blends tradition with modern creativity. Whether for calligraphy, Japanese brush pen art, or daily writing, each pen is designed to bring elegance, precision, and inspiration to your work. With the right choice, writing becomes more than routine, it turns into an enjoyable experience.

At Kiichin, we curate the best Japanese brush pens for beginners, hobbyists, and professionals alike. From versatile everyday picks to professional brush pen Japan models, our collection is made to help you write, draw, and express yourself with confidence. Explore our range today and find the perfect brush pen to elevate your creativity.