Kobe INK - Chaska Chayamachi

Kobe INK Chaska Chayamachi - Ink drop

Nagasawa’s Osaka (Umeda) branch has a special ink only available in the store. Named for the Tadao Ando-designed building where Nagasawa is located, Chaska Chayamachi is more than just a great souvenir of a visit. If this were part of the regular line, I think it would be quite popular. The color is attractive and interesting, but it would be perfectly appropriate in a work setting, too.

Ink Swatches on Cosmo Air Light and Tomoe River

As you start to write, Chaska Chayamachi is the blue of a morning sky hinting at rain ahead. It’s a light-to-medium blue with gathering influences of grey as the ink dries. The forecast for what is to come depends on the paper you’ve paired the ink with (and of course, the width of the nib). As you can see, the final results can range from lighter to darker medium grey-blues. On office copy, the balance shifts giving a slightly bluish, light grey when dry. From well-worn old jeans to Tsuki-yo blue, I find this a very easy ink to like.

Ink Swatches on Iroful and Takasago Bank papers

The writing experience is exactly what we expect from Kobe Ink. I found consistent and comfortable performance, flow slightly on the wet side, and drying times average or a touch faster. I’ve had the ink for seven or eight weeks, and I’ve been reaching for it again and again.

Writing sample on Cosmo Air Snow paper

The only real problem is availability. Chaska Chayamachi isn’t sold online, so you need to physically visit Nagasawa’s Osaka-Umeda location. If it’s convenient for you then the problem becomes a plus, but I know that won’t be the case for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, don’t miss the opportunity to drop by. It will definitely be one of the highlights!

Kobe INK Chaska Chayamachi ink writing samples

Kobe INK Chaska Chayamachi - Swatch Card

Kobe INK Chaska Chayamachi - Comparisons

Kobe INK Chaska Chayamachi - 50 ml bottle