Frixion (フリクション)
Stationery shopping in Japan is an adventure with countless
options. One of my favorite stationery items is Frixion pens. I gave them to my
friends when I went to the US over 10 years ago, and they all loved them.
Although they might be available in your countries now, they are often cheaper
in Japan.
Unlike usual pens, Frixion pens are erasable. You can erase
the ink using the hard rubber on the tip of a pen. Mistakes or misspellings don’t have to be crossed out. They can simply be erased. The pens
use thermosensitive ink, which disappears when heated by rubbing with the tip.
You will find them useful for studying, note-taking, journaling, drafting, and
so on. I also use my Frixion pens for sewing to mark fabric because the lines
will disappear after ironing. Please note that the pens are not good for legal
documents, official/important documents, exams, or any information that should
not be erased.
The Frixion series also offers refills, multi-color pens,
highlighter pens, colorful markers, and even stamps. They often have designs
that are available only for a limited time, so if you find your favorite
design, you should get it.
How much do they cost?
A pen in the above photo costs less than 300
yen. Prices vary depending on the type of pen, but in my opinion, the
Frixion series is generally affordable.
Where can you find them?
You can easily find them wherever stationery is sold, such
as Itoya, Loft, Hands, big bookstores (Maruzen, Junkudo, Yurindo, etc.), Daiso
(100 yen store), and some convenience stores. A wide variety of the Frixion
pens, including limited design ones, are usually available at Itoya, Loft,
Hands, big bookstores, etc. You will find basic Frixion pens at Daiso and
convenience stores.
Frixion pens can be nice, practical gifts regardless of age. Both kids and adults would like these pens. If you are struggling to choose a souvenir, try Frixion pens!