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.
Ramen Restaurant Logo Design Case: “HOMARE” — A Minimalist Japanese Calligraphy Logo Expressing Pride and Craftsmanship
This article presents a logo design case for a ramen restaurant named “HOMARE” (誉). With a single-character name, the design must carry meaning, identity, and presence within a highly limited visual structure. In this project, the logo was developed around the concept of “pride”, aiming to express the value [...]
Japanese Restaurant Logo Design Inspired by the Moon Over the Sea｜Shiki Shunsou Kaigetsu
In Japanese restaurant branding, consistency in visual storytelling plays a crucial role. This case study introduces the brush-style logo design created for Shiki Shunsou Kaigetsu, a creative Japanese dining concept. The design is built around the theme of “Moon × Sea × Seasons”, expressing a refined atmosphere with a [...]
Japanese Izakaya Logo Design Case Study: “Uoshin” – A Quiet, Refined Seafood Izakaya Identity
When designing a logo for an izakaya, it’s not just about making it “Japanese.” It’s about capturing the atmosphere, pace, and type of customer the space attracts. In this case study, we introduce the logo design for Seafood Izakaya “Uoshin.” The goal was to express a place that is [...]
Yakitori Restaurant Logo Design｜Japanese Calligraphy Logo for a Traditional Charcoal Grill Brand
In this article, we present a logo design case study for the yakitori restaurant “Sumibi Yakitori Keiei.” When designing a logo for a yakitori restaurant, it is important to visually communicate elements such as authenticity, craftsmanship, and the strength of charcoal grilling. In this project, we aimed to express [...]
Elegant Japanese Restaurant Logo Design with Ensō and Calligraphy | Kagetsuan Case Study
In this article, we introduce a logo design case study for the Japanese restaurant “Azabu Kagetsuan.” The design focuses on expressing a sense of refinement and quiet sophistication, combining traditional Japanese calligraphy with symbolic visual elements. We hope this example will serve as a useful reference for those considering [...]
Ramen Logo Design Case Study: DAIFUKU | Japanese Calligraphy Logo
In this article, we introduce a brush calligraphy logo design created for the ramen shop “DAIFUKU.” The overall direction is based on a Japanese-modern (wa-modern) aesthetic, while maintaining a strong sense of tradition and authenticity. Rather than leaning toward overly decorative elements, the design emphasizes a refined and timeless [...]
