Edomoji

Edomoji (江戸文字 : えどもじ?) are Japanese lettering styles, which were invented for advertising in the Edo period.

The main styles of Edomoji include Kanteiryū, Yosemoji, Kagomoji, Higemoji, Chōchinmoji and Kakuji .

Kanteiryū (勘亭流)

Kanteiryu sample.png

This style is used for publicity and programmes for arts like kabuki and rakugo. Invented by Okazakiya Kanroku (岡崎屋 勘六?), the name derives from Okazaki's nickname, kantei (勘亭?).

↑Jump back a section

Yosemoji (寄席文字)

Yosemoji sample.png

The name yosemoji literally means "letters for yose (Japanese theater)". A combination of kanteiryū and chōchinmoji, it was used for posters and flyers.

↑Jump back a section

Kagomoji (篭文字)

Kagomoji sample.png

This name literally means "cage letters". The characters are thick and square in shape. It is usually used in inverted form or sometimes as an outline.

↑Jump back a section

Higemoji (髭文字)

Higemoji sample.png

These characters have little "whiskers" on them. This style is used for kakigōri and ramune signs as well as being a common style for sake labels.

↑Jump back a section

Sumōmoji (相撲文字)

Sumomoji sample.png

Style of lettering used for sumo wrestling advertisements and programmes.

↑Jump back a section

Chōchinmoji (提灯文字)

Chochinmoji sample.png

These characters are the ones used on chōchin (hanging paper lanterns), such as the ones commonly seen outside a yakitori stand in Japan.

↑Jump back a section

Kakuji (角字)

Kakuji sample.png

This very heavy, rectangular style is used for making seals.

↑Jump back a section

External links

↑Jump back a section

Read in another language

This page is available in 5 languages

Last modified on 27 February 2013, at 11:51