SHIRUSHI ART STORE

▶︎Walking Alongside Life's Moments

The story of Kobayashi Daishindo begins in the quiet town of Awatabe (福井県越前市粟田部), nestled in the heart of Fukui prefecture, Japan. It was here, in our family home, that Kobayashi Inbo, the town’s very first seal shop, came to life. As the sole engraver, our founder, Kosaburo Kobayashi, became intimately acquainted with the rhythms of his community.

Every seal request, whether for a new marriage, a newborn child, or a fledgling business, offered a glimpse into the unfolding stories of Awatabe's residents. Over time, we became more than just seal engravers; we became keepers of stories, trusted confidants, and quiet witnesses to the milestones that marked the passage of time in our town. Even today, many seek our guidance, sharing their hopes and dreams alongside their seal requests.

**From left: Third-generation Katsuzo Kobayashi, Fourth-generation Teruaki Kobayashi, and Fifth-generation Toshiaki Kobayashi.

▶︎A Heritage of Craftsmanship, Passed Down Through Generations

For 132 years and five generations, Kobayashi Daishindo has remained deeply rooted in the heart of Fukui. From our humble beginnings in the mid-Meiji period in Awatabe, we've grown alongside our community, earning the trust and respect of the people we serve. In 1987, we moved our headquarters to Sabae City, embracing new opportunities while remaining steadfast in our commitment to traditional techniques and the spirit of our craft.

▶︎The Kakecho: A Century of Stories, Preserved in Ink

Within our workshop lies a treasure trove of memories – our collection of “kakecho” (account books). These meticulously kept ledgers record every seal we've ever created, preserving the names and impressions entrusted to us for over a century. It’s said that in our founder, Kozaburo Kobayashi's time, these records were so reliable that even the police would consult our kakecho to trace seals used in criminal activity.

While those days are long gone, the kakecho remains a poignant reminder of the deep connections we’ve forged with our customers. One such memory involves a company that has been with us since my grandfather's time. When they requested a replica of their very first rubber stamp, we were able to trace its origin back through decades-old entries within the kakecho. The moment we unearthed that original impression was truly special – a testament to the enduring legacy held within these treasured books.

Our kakecho are more than just financial records; they are a testament to lives lived, milestones celebrated, and the enduring power of human connection.

▶︎The Thoughts Carved by Hand

In the 1960s and '70s, when printing technology was not widespread, we hand-carved everything – names for shop signs, logos for wrapping paper, and company addresses for the products displayed in our store.

Awatabe（越前市粟田部) was a town brimming with artisans, home to workshops specializing in washi paper, textiles, and lacquerware. We made a diverse range of seals to meet their needs – from delicate designs to bold statements. Some even featured intricate motifs of flowers, animals, and local landmarks.

To this day, we continue to create seals for Okafuto Shrine(岡太神社), a testament to our enduring commitment to our community.

▶︎Honoring Our Roots, Embracing the Future

While times change, our core values remain steadfast. We believe in the power of listening, in understanding the unspoken desires of our customers, and in helping them shape a brighter future. This dedication to thoughtful craftsmanship and unwavering support lies at the heart of everything we do.

Thank you for taking the time to journey with us through the heart of Kobayashi Daishindo. May the stories shared here inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty of tradition, the power of human connection, and the quiet strength found in embracing your own unique path.

Teruaki Kobayashi,
the fourth-generation craftsman at Kobayashi Daishindo