Eboya Houju Nichibo Sunset Small Fountain Pen
Eboya, the last factory dedicated to ebonite production in Japan. Each piece reflects a commitment to traditional craftsmanship and continuous innovation. The use of ebonite—one of the first polymers ever discovered—gives this pen a unique aesthetic: ebonite is produced by vulcanizing pure rubber with sulfur (between 25% and 50%), and its name derives from ebony, which it began to replace in certain applications due to its durability and natural shine. Engraved on its body, as in all pieces by the brand, is Eboya Made in Tokyo, a testament to its origin and excellence.
Concept and design
The Houju model takes its name from the “宝珠” (Hōju), considered the property of dragons and, according to tradition, capable of granting gold, silver, treasures, and anything one desires, as well as helping to live life as one wishes, making dreams come true. This symbol, often represented as a sphere or teardrop with a pointed top, appears on the roofs of Inari Shinto shrines or in the mouth or under the paw of its messenger, the fox, and is associated with the ability to grant wishes, purify, and protect. Its design is delicate and rounded, with a standard shape that facilitates cap closure, complemented by a Japanese gold-plated clip that conveys the wish for this special piece to be appreciated and preserved for many years. This Small version features an officially named Nichibo color, a marbled warm orange tone over black ebonite.
Functionality and filling system
Equipped with a carefully tuned 14K gold nib, the Houju Nichibo Sunset Small offers a smooth, precise, and balanced writing experience. It uses an international cartridge or converter filling system, compatible with brands such as Pelikan or Rotring (not compatible with Montblanc, Waterman, or Caran d’Ache). Each body is hand-turned and polished in Tokyo, continuing the tradition of the artisanal workshops of Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing. The perfect assembly of all its parts results, along with the color of its ebonite, in a piece of great beauty and quality.
Package contents
• Eboya Houju Nichibo Sunset Small fountain pen
• Standard international converter
• Ink cartridge (1 piece)
• Paulownia wood box (Inktraveler replaces the brand’s standard cardboard box with this exclusive case used by the Japanese company for premium orders)
• Warranty
(Photos are for reference only and may differ slightly from the final product. Image credit for Houju monument: By じぶろ - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, link).
Technical specifications
- Body material: ebonite
- Color: Nichibo SUNSET orange
- Closed length: 132 mm
- Body diameter: 12.4 mm
- Cap diameter: 13.5 mm
- Nib: 14K gold
- Filling system: international cartridge/converter
- Made in Tokyo, Japan
Care and maintenance
Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or humidity and store in a dark place. Occasional cleaning with a soft cloth is enough to maintain its beauty.
Photos are for reference only and may differ slightly from the final product.
Brand history and philosophy
Eboya is the flagship brand of Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing, founded in 1952 and recognized as Japan’s last manufacturer specializing in ebonite. For decades it has supplied this material to major writing instrument houses such as Sailor or Pilot. In 2009 it launched its own line of fountain pens, combining technical expertise and Japanese aesthetic sensitivity. Until 2016, production was led by master turner Noritoshi Kanesaki, a disciple of the legendary nibmeister Kubo Kohei, bringing a unique artisanal legacy. Today, Eboya continues to create durable, comfortable writing instruments with an unmistakable finish.
"A jewel that unites Japanese spiritual tradition with excellence in writing."
