The Sailor Kirikane Koufu fountain pen combines Japanese craftsmanship, 21K gold nib, and a red maple motif created with kirikane and maki-e techniques. Includes converter and complimentary ink.
Based on Sailor’s 110th anniversary commemorative edition, this fountain pen is crafted from ebonite and then finished with the traditional Japanese kirikane technique combined with maki-e, achieving an exceptionally beautiful and refined result. The artist Kasen Otsuka meticulously cuts gold leaf into ultra-fine strips to create an intricate relief of red maple leaves, evoking the warm, vibrant colors of the Japanese autumn.
A final layer of translucent urushi lacquer is then applied, giving a subtle reddish hue while allowing the shimmering gold details to show through with incredible depth. The cap, designed without a clip, includes a discreet roll-stop tab so your pen won’t roll off the desk, blending practicality with elegant lines.
What is Kirikane?
Kirikane was introduced to Japan in the 6th century through Buddhism. It is a traditional Japanese decorative technique using gold, silver, or platinum leaf, which is cut into thin strips and applied as patterns with a brush and special glue (nikawa). Originally developed for decorating Buddhist statues and paintings, kirikane is still practiced today, mainly in Kyoto, for high-end art and craft decoration.
Koufu (Red Maple)
Koufu, or “red maple leaf,” represents change, as its leaves transform color with the seasons. It also carries the meaning of success in life, since the leaf’s shape resembles a rooster’s crest, a symbol of good fortune in Japan.
The gift box is made from Japanese chestnut, a material historically valued in Japan for its hardness, moisture resistance, and durability. The Kirikane fountain pen is carefully protected in this strong, beautiful wooden case, giving you a truly premium experience from the first moment.
Material: PMMA resin grip section, ebonite cap and barrel
Metal parts: Gold-plated finish (some parts Gold IP finish)
Dimensions: φ19.6 × 164mm (including roll stop)
Weight: 42.6g
Box: Japanese chestnut wood with nagurime texture
Functionality and writing feel
This pen is designed to balance perfectly in the hand, ideal for extended writing sessions. The 21K gold nib delivers a smooth, flexible line with generous ink flow, and works with both Sailor cartridges and the included converter.
Package contents
Sailor Kirikane Koufu fountain pen
Converter
A complimentary ink bottle courtesy of inktraveler
Chestnut wood presentation box
Certificate of authenticity
Key information and discounts
At inktraveler, you can get this exclusive edition with real stock ready to ship from Spain, including Sailor’s official warranty. You can also take advantage of a special discount code by clicking here.
You can see the making-of process in this video:
"Every stroke with this masterpiece carries the calm of a Japanese autumn and the perfection of timeless art."
The Sailor Kirikane Koufu fountain pen combines Japanese craftsmanship, 21K gold nib, and a red maple motif created with kirikane and maki-e techniques. Includes converter and complimentary ink.
