At SANTEN Design, our work combines traditional brush calligraphy with modern digital design.
Here we introduce logo design concepts, case studies, and ideas behind Japanese-style branding.
Whether you are opening a restaurant or launching a new brand, these articles offer useful insights into creating a distinctive logo.
Brush-Style Brand Logo Design Case Study: HOKUTO KICKBOXING MMA ACADEMY
If you're managing a martial arts or fitness brand, you may have asked yourself: “How can I create a logo that really stands out?” “Is there a way to express our values and fighting spirit visually?” In this article, we’d like to introduce the brush-style logo created for HOKUTO [...]
Understanding Logo File Formats: Why AI, PDF, and PNG Matter
To help our clients better understand the different file formats for logo delivery, we will explain the characteristics and appropriate uses of each format. We will focus especially on AI (Adobe Illustrator) files, detailing the significance of vector data and why delivery in AI format is so important. [...]
Traditional Karate Dojo Logo | Seishikai Japanese Brush Lettering Design
In this article, we introduce the logo design created for the karate dojo “Seishikai” (正志會). Rather than focusing on visual impact alone, this design was developed with a strong emphasis on expressing the true spirit of martial arts—discipline, mindset, and continuous self-improvement. By combining a traditional Japanese calligraphy logotype [...]
Omakase Style Logo Design Ideas
In Japan's fine dining industry, the 'omakase' style is gaining increasing attention. This unique approach allows chefs to surprise and delight guests by making the most of the day's ingredients and seasonal flavors. The essence of 'omakase' lies in the unpredictable culinary journey based on the trust between [...]
Gyoza Restaurant Logo Design: Japanese Calligraphy Logo for “GYOZA AKATSUKI”
This is a logo design created for the gyoza specialty restaurant “GYOZA AKATSUKI.” The word Akatsuki traditionally refers to “dawn,” but in this design, it is not treated as a literal time of day. Instead, it is reinterpreted as a moment of transition — when the atmosphere subtly shifts. [...]
Umeshu Logo Design: Elegant Japanese Plum Wine Brand “Ume Yuuka”
Umeshu is not only appreciated for its taste, but also for its aroma and the lingering aftertaste it leaves behind. In this article, we introduce the calligraphy logo design for the umeshu brand “Ume Yuuka.” Rather than focusing on bold visual impact, this logo is designed to express a [...]
