Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop

銀座「四宝堂」文房具店 #2

by Kenji Ueda

銀座の文房具店「四宝堂」は絵葉書や便せんなど、思わず誰かにプレゼントしたくなる文房具を豊富に取り揃える、知る人ぞ知る名店だ。

店主を務めるのは、どこかミステリアスな青年・宝田硯。硯のもとには、今日も様々な悩みを抱えたお客が訪れる――。

クラスメイトにいじられ浮いていると悩む少女に、定年を迎え一人寂しく退職していくサラリーマンなど。モヤモヤを抱えた人々の心が、あたたかな店主の言葉でじんわり解きほぐされていく。

いつまでも涙が止まらない、感動の物語第2弾。喫茶店『ほゝづゑ』の看板娘・幼馴染みの良子と硯の出会いのエピソードも収録!

Genres: Asian Literature, Fiction, Contemporary, Japanese Literature, Translated Fiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published September 6, 2023

About the author

Kenji Ueda is a Japanese novelist known for blending fantasy with the charm of everyday life. Born in Tokyo in 1969, he made his debut as a writer in 2021 with Teppan (The Iron Griddle), the revised version of a work he wrote in 2019 for the 1st Japan Delicious Fiction Award.

Reviews

[Aakanksha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best part about this series? It always takes me to the
Shihodo Stationery Shop nestled in the quiet backstreets of Tokyo’s Ginza district and it feels like a sanctuary; a sanctuary for those carrying those worn hearts. Managed by the charming and enigmatic Ken Takarada, this shop offers much more than just artisanal supplies; it provides a soulful space where deeply held emotions are finally put into words.

This heartwarming continuation of the beloved series, took me back to a world where every detail, from the specific choice of ink to the unique find of left-handed scissors feels vibrant and alive. Every stationery item holds something deep in themselves, they reflect the people and what they are going through, whether happiness, grief or the zeal to see beauty in little things, they feel heartfelt. Whenever I enter a stationery shop I get lost in the world of things that carry stories of different people and their journey, the art they'll make from them, the safe space they have created by collecting them. They take refuge in those arts they make from that stationery and I think it's one of the most beautiful thing in the world. Through a collection of interconnected, character-driven tales, Takarada guides his customers toward healing and connection, championing the enduring power of handwritten communication in an increasingly digital age.

While the prose remains beautifully simplistic and accessible, it tackles the small problems of the human condition with profound tenderness. Beyond the shop's counters, we delve deeper into the backstories of Ken and his friend Ryoko, discovering that even those who provide light for others have their own stories of growth. It feels like a Palate Cleanser for the Soul and a cozy exploration of emotional maturity, diverse perspectives, and the quiet joy found in life's smaller things and this book is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most complex healing begins with a simple pen and paper.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Books, Manilla Press for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

This is perfect for fans of books such as Before The Coffee Gets Cold. However, this does not have any fantastical elements and perhaps goes a bit deeper into the characters emotions and psyche.

I found the first and last tales to be particularly engaging and with strong messages - everything else was slightly lacking, which is why I am giving the book in its entirely 3 stars (the individual stories I liked most would be 4 stars).

[Girija (thesacredwhispers) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐

[Bookworm Denz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Notes From The Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop
Author : Kenji Ueda
Translator : Emily Balistrieri

We are back to the venerable Shihodo stationery shop with its enigmatic proprietor Ken Takarada. This second volume composed of five-chapter vignettes feature sundry customers who are not only in search of their respective needed stationery items, but also answers to their burdened hearts. This time around, readers also get a glimpse on how the friendship between Ken and Ryoko was built.

I loved how the information on different stationery sets were clearly lighter & toned down (not as heavy as the first book), that it was easier and definitely smoother to follow the flow of the story.

I was delighted, that the central point of the book was turned to the characters' background stories and experiences; letting the readers slowly "soak in" the slow, gentle and calming vibes - perfect for some good old quiet time and self-reflecting.

I also appreciated the little details that were included; just enough to recall information from the first book (like the backstory from the first sequel about the old press in the basement which now works again for printing business cards).

I did notice that there are some parts and conversations that seemed stilted and unnatural at times, but imo, they did not detract from the primary objective of the narrative. So I say, kudos to the English translation, simply well done! 👌

Overall, a heartwarming, comforting read; highlighting the importance and beauty in human interaction, relationship, and communication, as well as, how small acts of kindness lead to great impacts. Pleasantly sweet, but not saccharine. 🤌🫶

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

P.S. If anyone wants to follow my book reviews I am on Instagram & Goodreads (bookwormdenz), as well as Threads (denz.kaye). Let me know so we can connect! 📚

[The Contented · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely heartwarming stories centred around stationery. Not my usual genre at all, but I enjoyed this!

[Hollie Mullins · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 stars)
Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is a quiet, reflective novel that captures the beauty of small moments and the emotional power of simple human connection. Set in a charming stationery shop in a cosy corner of Japan, the story unfolds through gentle encounters between the shop’s owner and the people who wander in, each carrying their own burdens, memories, and hopes.
The atmosphere is lovely - meticulous, nostalgic, and infused with the kind of calm you’d expect from a place lined with beautiful paper and fountain pens. The writing (and translation) often shines in these quiet details, offering small doses of wisdom about loss, creativity, and the meaning of everyday kindness.
That said, the pacing is quite slow, and at times the narrative can feel meandering. With the kindle format I sometimes struggled at first to keep track of a new story and new characters. Readers looking for a strong plot might find it lacking, but those who enjoy slice-of-life storytelling and introspective character studies will appreciate its understated charm.
Overall, Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is a tender read best savoured slowly, perhaps with a cup of tea and a favorite notebook nearby 🌸

[Jemma Crosland · Rating 3 out of 5]

Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is the sequel to a book I enjoyed in May of 2025, Letters from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop and I looked forward to more heart-warming Japanese fiction which centres stationery. I love the detail that this book goes into, about the pens, paper and other stationery tools as it feels like it is written with so much love.
I did enjoy book one more overall, however I am very glad to have picked up this sequel as it was very similar and more of the same cosy feeling. I don't feel as though these books have any lasting impact on me though, unlike some others within this genre of healing fiction. The writing is beautiful and some quotes definitely stuck out to me but it isn't as memorable as I would've hoped. I also feel like there needs to be development on the core storyline of the owner of the stationery shop, but this feels more surface-level as it only focuses on the individual vignettes.
I would definitely recommend this sweet duology, particularly to stationery lovers who will enjoy the appreciation Kenji Ueda has shared.
3.5 stars (rounded down to 3 on Goodreads)

Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnier Books UK and Kenji Ueda for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy.

[Maya Liang · Rating 4 out of 5]

本書是銀座四實堂文具店的第2冊（據說日本已經出到第4冊）。
這本一樣很精彩，每章有一個深刻感人的故事+一樣文具。文具的部分也是描寫到深度剛好（除了書籤那篇）。
也慢慢帶出店長令人好奇的身世。
因為是系列作，不免擔心公式化會讓閱讀感受愈來愈平緩（亂操心且口味愈來愈重）。

[Alistair · Rating 5 out of 5]

用牛奶盒做手抄紙。

[Alan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

'In one corner of Ginza, Tokyo - Shihodo Stationery. The drizzle seemed liable to continue, but the shop was enveloped in a peaceful, warm atmosphere.'

The second book in the series from Kenji Ueda, and this is as strong as the first - which I loved. I am unashamedly a big stationery buff, so this series is my perfect go-to for a comforting, healing kind of read. 5 more stories of customers who come to the store and are renewed by the items in the shop, and also by the warmth and generosity of its owner, Ken Takarada. Indeed, one of the stories gives an insight into Takarada himself and the enigmatic relationship that he has with Ryoko, a constant presence in both books so far.

Whether it be flash cards that recall happy family memories; special scissors to help in a new display by two misfit work experience students; a retiring salaryman and his business cards.... Anyone and everyone has an individual story to tell, and this wonderful little shop will open their hearts to a new start.

(My favourite realisation moment came towards the end with one customer looking to replace coloured pencils that had worn right down. Takarada then mentions the ceremony of 'fude kuyo', originally a memorial service for calligraphy brushes that have reached the end of their usefulness, but that can now include pencils and fountain pens, for example. I mean, yes! How many times have you hated to dispose of a favourite pen or piece of stationery like that? Only the Japanese could come up with ceremonies like this - and there are others for treasured possessions like needles, dolls, etc. It is precisely these sort of insights into another culture that makes reading translated fiction so rewarding.)

Perfect reading to escape the chaos of the modern world, I can't recommend these books enough. Joyful.

[hans · Rating 4 out of 5]

2nd book in the series and I really enjoyed it as much as the 1st book. The stories stuck with me and I love how each traversed me into its charming and enthralling exploration on one’s loneliness, grief, affection and longing; so comfortingly wise, neat and totally heartwarming. Divided into 5 tales each woven to one stationery item (same plot structure like the previous book) in the backdrop of Shihodo Stationery, I followed 5 narrators in their vignette of quietness and interactions with Ken Takarada; the thoughtful shop owner who goes in between recommending a stationery to listening deeply and sincerely to his customers’ concern and emotional needs.

I fairly love all of the stories esp the Scissors chapter which highlighted on a school bullying theme and a new found friendship in between Haruna and Mihashi after both went to Shihodo for a job-shadow assignment. The tale has a thrilling discussion on stationery items that are easy to use by everyone that I could relate to Haruna’s concern in using the ‘normal’ scissors which not easily usable by a left-handed person.

Both Flash Card Deck and Business Cards having a gripping familial and career related plots with uplifting endings that touched me and I love how Colored Pencils observed on racism while exploring a heartfelt connection in between a grandson and his grandfather. Getting a peek to Ryoko’s POV in Bookmark with her walking down on memory lane premise of her relationship with Ken and how their friendship started; sentimental and quite lovely but I wish I could dig more on Ken’s soul about Ryoko!

A cozy plot, bit slowburn and reflective overall. Totally love the idea of how an object could hold such memorable meaning and becomes like a tool to connect people in between their past and present.

**Thank you Pansing Distribution for the gifted copy!

[Hasliza Rajab · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I look at all the stationary that I have on my table, I will be looking at those as a normal scene. And now the scene is no longer the same when every single piece of it has its own specialty. That's what I learnt from Ginza Shihodo Stationary Shop.

Consist of 5 beautiful stories, the customers who came to this shop brought their own experiences and memories that they had with this shop. The shop does more than selling the items, it reminds us that even the simplest objects like scissors, pens, color pencils, flash card, journals and etc carry its own stories and human emotions with it. For example, each chapter introduces a different customer who visits the shop with an emotional burden, they grieved over a loved one, unresolved regret, unspoken gratitude, or longing for connection. Through thoughtful conversations between the owner and the customers, the shop becomes a safe space where emotions are acknowledged and gently guided into written form.

Which chapter that I loved the most?
The moment when Kotomi sent a letter to the shop owner, Takarada-san, thanking him for helping her father in giving a speech at her wedding ceremony. The story that Kotomi brings to the readers is beautiful, and I loved the way she communicate with her parents through simple notes. This small act becomes powerful moments of mindfulness and I realize that communication doesn’t have to be instant to be sincere.

The stories are simple, but they linger, even from the simplest objects like stationary.

[Bloss ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was grand to return to Ginza and the shop; but this stories were inconsistent for this reader. 3.5-ish

The final story, imo, was the strongest. I liked the theme and the exploration of pencil crayons. My second favourite was the one with the job shadowing students because it was sweet. The story with the retiree was alright too. I didn't like the characters in the first story and found the quasi-estranged family dynamic kinda uncomfortable. And, while it was kinda interesting to hear about Ken's background, I didn't gel with the Ken/Ryoko story.

Flash Cards: 2/5
Scissors: 4/5
Business Cards: 3.5/5
Bookmark: 2/5
Coloured Pencils: 4.5/5

I mentioned in my review of the first instalment that I don't like the telegraphed Ken/Ryoko 'romance' and I stand by that. I just can't bring myself to like Ryoko, she's pushy and abrasive. Ken, on the other hand is presented as kind and gentle but just kinda comes across as naive. I don't want to watch Ryoko bully Ken (who is clearly not interested in her) into some sort of uncomfortable romantic relationship.

The translation was okay though I found the dialogue distractingly unnatural at times. I appreciate this series for its strong sense of place, setting-as-character in the stationery shop, non-formulaic stories, and how there's no communing with the dead.

My request to review this was approved by Bonnier Books, Manilla Press on NetGalley.

[Varma Shagun · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
"Once I got out into the world, I realised how amazing you are, Dad, Mum. Working is so hard. I am sure you've both been through lots of hard times I know nothing about..."

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬?
I really wanted to read some Japanese Literature. That's when I picked up a few highly recommended and globally loved books, including this one.

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The book cover is so pretty! The sakura, the cat and the calligraphy pens, everything perfectly complements the vibe of the book. The title is in sync with the first book in the series.

𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧:
✓ This is book two in the The Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop Series, but it can be read as standalone. However, I recommend reading the first book too.
✓ The story is set around a stationary shop, owned by Ken Takarada. It's not very popular but, is considered a gem by those who know about it. The shop is loved for its beautiful collection and the owner's charm.
✓ The story follows certain characters, burdened by life, who visit the stationary shop and find solace by expressing their feelings to the owner.
✓ These characters and their stories feel candid and realistic. I could relate to certain aspects of the story.
✓ The book overall focuses on healing and gentle untangling of thoughts.
✓ This book is absolutely perfect for a rainy afternoon or an evening followed by a tiring day. I'm in love with the ambience, the characters, and the overall warmth of the story.

[Apoorva Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop felt like returning to a quiet little place that instantly makes you feel calm. Set in a small stationery shop in Japan, the story follows the shop owner, Ken Takarada, and the different people who come in looking for pens, paper, and sometimes something more than just stationery.

What I liked most about this book was how it focused more on the people and their stories rather than only on the stationery. The descriptions of the writing tools are still there, but they feel lighter and easier to follow this time, which made the reading experience smoother. The shop really feels like a peaceful space where people slow down, reflect, and deal with whatever they’re carrying in their hearts.

I also enjoyed the little connections to the first book, like mentions of the old press in the basement now working again. These small details made the story feel warm and familiar without being confusing or heavy.

The overall vibe of the book is slow, gentle, and comforting and therefore perfect if you’re in the mood for something calm and cosy. There were a few moments where the conversations felt a bit stiff, but honestly, it didn’t bother me much or take away from the story.

This isn’t a book with big drama or fast-paced action, but that’s kind of the point.

[Annette Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is a quiet but comforting read composed of a series of vignettes featuring a selection of customers of the titular shop. I did not know when I picked up this book that is actually the second in a series, but not having read the previous book did not in any way hamper my enjoyment of this gentle read. As with many books in this genre Notes celebrates the small moments of human connection in a charmingly described setting designed to appeal. This is definitely a book for readers who value vibes over plot, and the gently meandering pace while soothing may be too slow for some. I am not sure if it was because the nuance of dialogue in translation can be difficult to capture but I did find that some of the conversations felt a little stilted, though I suppose that could also be a deliberate choice. I did appreciate the story that focussed on disability and accommodation and found the character of the retiree in another tale to be very charming.
Overall a gentle cozy read that fans of this genre will enjoy.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own

[Milly Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second in this series and once again it is a book about ‘small moments’ and how human connection can be so special. The book is about simple encounters between the polite and unassuming stationery shop owner, Ken Takarada, and those who visit the shop. Each person has a special reason for visiting and Ken listens and guides and offers wisdom. There is a slow pace to this novel which is perfect for it. It is gentle, there is no lively action-packed plot, there is no high drama, just moments. The shop is one I would love to visit as it is full of beautiful stationery and pens. The stories themselves - my favourite is the last one - each has its own charm, especially also the one about the retiree. Thse stories are about memories and hopes. What I also liked about this novel was that there was more about Ken and his good friend Ryoko from the coffee shop. We met her in the first book but this time we learn more about how she and Ken first met and why they remain such good friends. I really enjoy this genre of Japanese writing as what is so clear is that it is full of tradition and full of respect.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Notes from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is a collection of short stories centred around those visiting the stationery shop. I missed in the description that this is a second volume and I have not read the first volume, so my opinions are based off of reading this as a stand-alone.

That being said, I do think it works well on its own if you haven't read the first novel. Though one story goes more in-depth about Ken and Ryoko, which would have better context if I had read the first novel. My favourite story was the last one "Coloured Pencils", but I did enjoy "Business Cards", too.

As always with translated fiction, there are some conversations that don't come across as natural as if it were written in its original language, but I don't think this detracted from the stories too much.

Overall I think this was a solid 4 star, cosy read - especially if you're a fan of feel-good Japanese short stories. Thank you Bonnier Books UK, Manilla Press and NetGalley for this advanced copy!

[Aga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Bonnier Books UK | Manilla Press and NetGalley for this ARC.

I absolutely loved this book. It’s the second one in the series, and just like the first, each chapter reads like its own self-contained story. But honestly? I enjoyed this book even more than book one.

I loved learning the backstory of Ken and Ryoko, and once again I’m reminded why I adore Japanese literature - it’s poetic, quietly emotional, and rooted in tradition. The way Japanese customs and rituals are woven through the narrative is beautifully done, and the reverence for stationery - as something deeply personal, symbolic, and even life-changing — is just perfection.

Ken’s knowledge, patience, and kindness anchor the book; the idea that a small act of thoughtfulness can shift someone’s entire life never gets old, and this novel proves it again and again.

Heartwarming, reflective, and full of charm. I already want book three.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Donna Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a wonderfully cozy translated lit book, filled with helping those with worn hearts. It was gret to return to the Shihodo Stationery Shop, filled with plentiful supplies for those seeking different stationery supplies and warm welcomes. All the tales told in this book were heartwarming, especially in learning everyone's small problems that they open up and receive help with. The details are wonderfully unique, like the specific pens and ink used, to the opening finds of left-handed scissors. Ken Takarada, our overarching connective character, is so charming and warm, plus it was great to see a tale focused on him. Overall, I really enjoyed this cozy Japanese novel filled with a welcoming presence.

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ken Takarada runs a very unusual stationery shop in the Ginza district of Tokyo. His job is not only to find his customers the perfect pen or paper product - perhaps even one that they did not know that they needed - but to patch the hole in their soul that they may not even be aware of carrying around within themselves...

In the style of other similar Japanese stories, this book gives us insights into the lives of individuals and the burdens that they carry, as well as how they find ways of lightening those burdens.

Often sweet, sometimes touching, and frequently relatable, this gets 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Georgia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shihodo is a little store tucked away in Tokyo’s Ginza district, offering a wide selection of fine stationery. The shop owner Ken Takarada not only helps his customers with their stationery needs, but longs to build meaningful connections with each person who visits his shop. Notes from the Ginza Shihodo stationery shop is a collection of stories of each customer, from a couple who are coming to terms with their daughter growing up and finding her own way in life, to an older man as he moves on to the next chapter of his life following retirement. This book is filled with heartwarming tales focusing on human connection.

[Grace · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 10%

Now, normally I try to push through a bit further before DNFing a book, but I simply could not do it. Why? Because the translation was so poor.
In terms of story, this was a very typical Japanese healing fiction, which is something I enjoy. However, the English translation was very stilted, very literal, and it simply did not flow smoothly at all. As someone who does speak Japanese, and works in translation, I could tell exactly what the original author had written... Which isn't something I want to be constantly thinking about when reading a novel in English.

I'd give the author another try in the future, but there are plenty of better translated books than this one.

[Jelco · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since there seem to be a lot of these Japanese "slice of live" books out, I was interested in trying one of them. To see if there was anything interesting there. After finishing this one, I don't really get the popularity. It has the problem that every anthology book/movie has; Some of the stories resonate, others don't and you never get a consistent quality throughout.

That is not to say this book is bad. I enjoyed some of the stories. Specifically the second and fourth story. But overall this is just too feel good. None of it feels real. Maybe this is what a lot of people need these days, but it's a no for me. Would rate it 2.5, but since that isn't possible on GR, 3 stars will do.

[Nida · Rating 4 out of 5]

just as cosy and heartwarming as the previous book! the second book in the ginza shihodo stationery series certainly does not disappoint. i loved the familiar warmth of the setting and seeing the development of the characters, and i almost preferred a lot of the plot lines to the first book!

that said, i think this was a slightly slower read and i really missed the letters aspect of the first novel that made it so enticing for me and for that reason i’d have to give it 4 stars.

would still read anything by this author and i hope he writes more in the series and does another series focusing on the hotel that Ken and Ryoko visited together perhaps!!

[Mazikeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tucked away in the glittering district of Ginza is Shihodo, a stationery shop that functions less like a retail store and more like a pharmacy for the heart. The staff doesn't just sell it's customers a notebook they find the exact paper weight and ink viscosity needed to help them say the things they are too afraid to speak aloud.
This is peak "Healing Fiction." It’s quiet, contemplative and deeply moving without being overly sentimental. It reminds us that in our digital "delete-key" world there is something brave and permanent about putting ink to paper.

[Mitsy_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good-quality healing book. I loved the first book, and this sequel didn’t disappoint, bringing in everything I enjoyed about the original. I especially liked the stories that give us the backstory of the store owner and the history of the store itself. And as usual, as a stationery lover, I loved all the trivia about the stationery goods and the craftsmanship involved in making them. Heartwarming and comforting all around. I loved reading this at bedtime before sleep!

4.5 🌟

[Sarahlovesbooks76 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gentle, heartwarming read, made up of 5 shorter tales about human connection. I love stationery, so the shop was a perfect location for me, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the items! My favourite talent was about the work experiences students who had to learn to be a team, and made discoveries about each other - what you see isn't always what you get. I didn't realise it was a second book, so I will definitely look out for the first!

[Linda Amos · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely gentle book with nice people. It is short stories but they have connections to the earlier book - Letters from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop - as there are the same people or connections to them. All have a connection to the Stationery Shop and it's owner who is kind and seems to know what each person needs. Space. A pen. Notepaper. A coffee. Just a sit down on the landing. A conversation.
Never been there but I miss it!

[Imogen Brand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Notes From The Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop is such a cute and wholesome short read. Two of my favourite stories is Business Cards and Coloured Pencils they both stand out the most personally amongst all of the short stories.

Hopefully the third book in the series gets published into English soon I enjoy reading this series the most on bus journeys it always makes may day a little brighter.