IWAKO Erasers: Fun, Unique Stationery That Brings Smiles

Discover the World of IWAKO Erasers

An indispensable writing tool known by all: the eraser.

While any old eraser can remove pencil marks—whether mechanical or traditional—the erasers from IWAKO offer much more. Writing becomes playtime! Let’s take a look.

The word “eraser” usually brings to mind a block of white rubber from school days gone by. However, at IWAKO Co. Ltd., the term conjures images of toys, as they produce one colorful and unusual creation after another. Many erasers feature parts that can be disassembled for added fun, but rest assured, they also perform their primary function—erasing!

A key aspect of these stationery marvels is that all materials are completely made in Japan. Safe and environmentally friendly, parents can comfortably give these eraser-toys to their children. Besides their adorable appearance, they also erase remarkably well.

Designs span a wide variety of themes, from sweets and vegetables to sushi and characters like animals and dinosaurs.

* The pricing for each is simple: 54 yen (tax included) for one, or a variety pack of several pieces for 378 yen (tax included).

Animal Erasers

Animal erasers are some of the most popular among IWAKO's products. There are also marine animals, insects, and even puppies, catering to every kind of animal lover.

For those eager to unleash their fierce side, these dinosaur erasers are perfect. They are of such high quality that you’d never guess they are stationery!

Here, we have sweets erasers, guaranteed to make your stomach rumble the moment you see them. They go beyond simple stationery—each one is a miniature work of art.

Next, let’s take a look at some items you’ll definitely want to pick up on your next trip to Japan!

Beckoning Cat Erasers

Send luck your way with beckoning cat erasers. As demonstrated by the photo, color variations include red, white and black as well as purple, light blue and yellow. Expressions vary from the wide-eyed kitty to the sweetly smiling, too.

Sushi Erasers

These delicious-looking sushi erasers will make you want to break out the soy sauce. The shari (*1) and neta (*2) can be pulled apart, so feel free to play around and create some sushi of your own! These are sold as part of a set atop a sushi geta (*3).

*1 Shari: the rice part of the sushi, generally called this by sushi restaurants.
*2 Neta: the filling or topping of the sushi.
*3 Sushi geta: a wooden platter on which sushi is served.

The Process of Making These Unusual Erasers

So, how are these fun and unique erasers made, anyway? Let’s take a look at the manufacturing process.

First of all, a sample model of the final image is created.

For the first step, a mold is formed using wax. It's said that the wax can cost as much as 200,000 yen! After that, each part is prepared using materials like silicon and plaster, and then separated.

Finally, a die of each part is cast from the sample model.

These funky erasers are crafted from tiny grains of actual rubber. Colors are mixed into the fine rubber grains, creating a hue that exactly matches the creator’s vision. From animals to food, each model features its own unique color. The process is said to be repeated multiple times until the perfect shade is achieved.

Next, the colored grains are heated to a high temperature until they can be poured into molds (dies). From there, each part takes shape.

This process allows for the production of many erasers at once!

Finally, the individual parts are carefully assembled by hand into fun, creative erasers. It’s surprisingly moving to see the finished product come to life.

In Conclusion

IWAKO invests a great deal of time and effort into creating their unique erasers, but unfortunately, imitation products made in foreign countries can also be found in stores.

However, as soon as you open the packaging, the difference becomes immediately clear. From the glossy finish to the undeniable erasing power of each disassembled part, IWAKO brand erasers demonstrate proven quality.

IWAKO proudly offers Made in Japan quality through these fun and innovative erasers. Why not pick up some as souvenirs when visiting Japan?

How to Buy IWAKO Erasers

IWAKO products can be found at various stationery stores around town. You can also purchase their items online at the IWAKO shop. Their website features a wide variety of products, including every type of eraser and more.

For those interested in touring their factory, please call to make a reservation at 048-998-5502. Tours are available by appointment only, and there is currently a two-month waiting list if you call now.

*Factory tours are free of charge.

IWAKO Co., Ltd.

Address: Saitama, Yashio, Oze 184
Hours: -
Fixed Holidays:-
Wi-Fi: -
Credit Cards: Most major
Other Languages: -
Information in Other Languages: English
Nearest Station: Yashio Station (Tsukuba Express Line)
Access: 15 minute walk from South exit of Yashio Station
Price Range: -
Phone Number: 048-995-4099
Website: IWAKO (Japanese), IWAKO shop