TOBOKU
Chinese Ink Sticks with a Deep Historical Legacy
Chinese ink sticks, known as Toboku in Japan, have been imported since ancient times and carry a profound sense of history and tradition.
While Japanese ink sticks (Waboku) are now more common domestically, Chinese ink continues to hold great value—especially antique ink sticks (Koboku), which are highly treasured by collectors and calligraphers.
Among Chinese ink makers, the world-renowned brand Cao Sugong is particularly respected for its craftsmanship and heritage.
Differences Between Japanese and Chinese Ink Sticks
Although both types of ink are made from soot and glue, their historical development, production techniques, and natural environments led to distinct differences in character and performance.
Differences in Historical Background
Ink-making techniques were brought to Japan by envoys to Tang China.
As Japanese culture developed—especially with the creation of kana scripts—Japanese ink sticks evolved independently, resulting in a unique tradition distinct from Chinese ink.
Differences in Manufacturing
Key differences include:
- Ratio of soot to glue
- Type and viscosity of glue
- 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 |
Quick to settle, deep black, slightly sticky |
Slow to settle, softer black, smooth texture |
Japan’s soft water and China’s hard water also influence how the ink’s color develops and how the finished strokes appear.
Evaluation of Japanese vs. Chinese Ink
Neither type is inherently superior—each has strengths depending on the artist’s purpose and the environment.
Chinese ink tends to crack more easily in Japan’s humid climate, while Japanese ink is known for continuous innovation.
Chinese ink, on the other hand, preserves long-standing traditional methods and often develops deeper character as it ages.
| Aspect |
Japanese Ink (Waboku) |
Chinese Ink (Toboku) |
| Ink color |
Solid black, matte, less depth |
Slightly bluish or whitish black with refined depth |
| Ink strength |
Less prone to cracking |
More prone to cracking |
| Power of ink color |
Strong even when new |
Becomes stronger with age |
| Flow / Stretch |
Less fluid, requires drier paper |
Excellent flow and stretch |
| Bleeding |
Minimal penetration |
Beautiful natural bleeding |
| Lifespan |
Shorter (approx. 10–50 years) |
Longer, aged ink develops richer character |
Size Classification of Chinese Ink Sticks
Chinese ink is measured using the traditional unit “jin.”
1 jin = 500g, and ink sticks are typically divided into fractional weights such as 1/4 (125g), 1/8 (62.5g), and 1/16 (32g).
Famous Chinese Ink Brands
Among Chinese ink makers, Cao Sugong is especially famous and highly esteemed.
We offer a wide variety of Chinese ink sticks, including:
Tessai-ō Shoga Hōboku, Tenpō Kyūjo, Kikyō Kinran, Pine Soot Ink, Huangshan Pine Soot, Dahao Landscape, Nanhai, Shoga Seiboku, and many more.
