TOBOKU
Chinese Ink with a Sense of History
Imported from China since ancient times, Chinese ink sticks, or Toboku, carry a deep sense of history.
Although Japanese ink (Waboku) is now more common domestically, Chinese ink still holds great value, especially as antique ink sticks (Koboku).
Among Chinese ink makers, the brand Cao Sugong is particularly well-known and highly regarded.
Differences Between Japanese and Chinese Ink Sticks
While both are made from soot and glue, Japanese and Chinese ink differ in their historical background, production methods, and the environments in which they developed.
Differences in Historical Background
After envoys to Tang China brought ink-making techniques to Japan, a unique Japanese culture developed, including kana scripts.
This led to the independent evolution of Japanese ink sticks (Waboku), distinct from Chinese ones.
Differences in Manufacturing
The main differences are found in:
- Ratio of soot to glue
- Type and viscosity of glue used
- Influence of natural environment such as water quality and climate
| Aspect |
Japanese Ink (Waboku) |
Chinese Ink (Toboku) |
| Ratio (soot : glue) |
10 : 6 |
10 : 12 |
| Viscosity of glue |
High |
Low |
| Characteristics |
Settles quickly, strong black, sticky |
Settles slowly, weaker black, less sticky |
Japan has soft water, while China has hard water. This environmental difference also affects the ink’s color and finish.
Evaluation of Japanese vs. Chinese Ink
It is not a matter of which is superior, but rather which is more suitable depending on use and environment.
Chinese ink tends to crack more easily in Japan’s humid climate.
Japanese ink is known for constant innovation, while Chinese ink remains more traditional.
| Aspect |
Japanese Ink (Waboku) |
Chinese Ink (Toboku) |
| Ink color |
Solid black, plain, less depth |
Slightly whitish black, refined with depth |
| Ink strength |
Less likely to crack |
Prone to cracking |
| Power of ink color |
Strong even when new |
Strength develops with age |
| Flow/Stretch |
Poor, requires dry paper |
Good |
| Bleeding |
Resists penetration |
Beautiful bleeding effect |
| Lifespan |
Shorter (about 10–50 years) |
Longer, aged ink has richer character |
Size Classification of Chinese Ink Sticks
Chinese ink is measured using the traditional “jin” unit.
1 jin = 500g, and ink sticks are divided into 1/4 (125g), 1/8 (62.5g), 1/16 (32g), etc.
Chinese Ink Brands
Among Chinese ink makers, the Cao Sugong brand is especially famous.
We carry a wide selection including Tessai-ō Shoga Hōboku, Tenpō Kyūjo, Kikyō Kinran, Pine Soot Ink, Huangshan Pine Soot, Dahao Landscape, Nanhai, Shoga Seiboku, and more.
