Platinum × Daimaru Fujii Central 2022 Limited Edition | Upashkuma Ainu Pattern Fountain Pen

Released in 2022 to commemorate the 130th anniversary of Daimaru Fujii Central, a historic stationery store in Sapporo, Hokkaido, this special edition fountain pen was created in collaboration with Platinum Pen.

Named Upashkuma, this remarkable writing instrument is the third release in the store's original Ainu Pattern series, celebrating the traditional art and cultural heritage of the Ainu people, the Indigenous people of Hokkaido.

The intricate decorative patterns were designed by Ainu artist ToyToy, bringing traditional Ainu aesthetics into the world of fine Japanese fountain pens.

In the Ainu language, Upashkuma refers to stories, teachings, and wisdom passed down through generations.

The design draws inspiration from traditional Ainu beliefs surrounding snow and prayer. Snow falling from the sky after a prayer was regarded as a meaningful response, symbolizing the connection between people, nature, and the spiritual world.

Through this beautiful concept, the fountain pen expresses the hope that words and stories will continue to be passed down, just as snowflakes gently descend from the sky.

Based on the iconic Platinum #3776 Century, this special edition combines Platinum's renowned writing performance with the distinctive artistic heritage of Hokkaido.

To celebrate the anniversary, Daimaru Fujii Central also commissioned Hokkaido leather workshop Kusaka Kaban to create a specially designed leather pen case, completing the commemorative set.

More than just a writing instrument, the Upashkuma represents a meaningful fusion of Japanese craftsmanship, Ainu cultural traditions, and Hokkaido's regional identity.

For collectors who appreciate rare Japanese stationery collaborations, regional limited editions, and culturally significant fountain pens, this is a particularly distinctive and fascinating creation.