Japanese Colored Pencils

 I recently bought a set of Japanese colored pencils at Seria, a 100-yen shop. The pencils are small and adorable, and the colors are rich and vivid — I fell in love with them right away.



Now I’ve started using them in my journal to create what I call my mind weather map. Each color represents a different mood or level of satisfaction for the day. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to reflect on how I felt.






① Kincha (Golden Brown):

Warmth, abundance, nostalgia. Suggests human connection and comforting memories.


② Anzu-iro (Apricot):

Youthfulness of spring, vitality, lightness. A color of energy and hope.


③ Beni-iro (Crimson):

Strength, passion, symbol of life. Suited for important matters and emotionally stirring events.


④ Botan-iro (Peony Pink):

Glamour, femininity, elegance. Perfect for things you love and take delight in.


⑤ Ayame-iro (Iris Purple):

Intelligence, dignity, quiet strength. Reflects learning and respectful admiration.


⑥ Ruri-iro (Lapis Lazuli):

Truth, deep wisdom, serenity. Brings clarity in moments of organization and tidying.


⑦ Tsuyukusa-iro (Dayflower Blue):

Transience, coolness, impermanence. Ideal for activities that involve motion and a sense of breeze.


⑧ Seiji-iro (Celadon Green):

Calm, healing, stillness. Suits restful time, self-reflection, and inner balance.


⑨ Rokushō-iro (Verdigris Green):

Nature, healing, life’s renewal. A perfect match for restorative activities like bathing.


⑩ Kuri-iro (Chestnut Brown):

Composure, rooted strength. Resonates with contact with nature and working with the earth.


⑪ Tobi-iro (Kite Brown):

Subtlety, reserve, a touch of gloom. For times of fatigue or emotional heaviness.


⑫ Sumi-iro (Ink Black):

Closure, transition, composure. Suited for moments of emotional detachment or endings.




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