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.
Japanese Calligraphy Logo Design Case Study: “Fugentei” Niboshi Tsukemen Restaurant
In this article, we would like to introduce a Japanese calligraphy logo design created for the tsukemen specialty restaurant “Fugentei.” The concept behind this logo focuses on simplicity and authenticity, reflecting the essence of niboshi (dried sardine) broth—known for its depth, clarity, and natural umami. We hope this case [...]
Mendo Ibuki | Japanese Calligraphy Logo Design for a Ramen Restaurant
A logo is one of the most important elements in shaping the identity of a ramen restaurant. It visually communicates not only the brand name, but also the atmosphere, philosophy, and experience behind each bowl. Japanese calligraphy logos, in particular, are highly effective for food businesses. They can express [...]
Yakitori Restaurant “TORISHO” Logo Design Case Study | A Traditional Calligraphy & Crest-Inspired Approach
In this article, we would like to introduce a logo design case study for the yakitori restaurant “TORISHO.” Based on the meaning of the name and the overall impression of the brand, we carefully considered a direction that reflects a sense of craftsmanship and consistency, without being overly decorative. [...]
Japanese Calligraphy Logo Design for “SHINOBI”|A Luxury & Avant-Garde Identity for a Premium Wagyu Restaurant
For a high-end Japanese restaurant—especially in the niku kappo (meat-focused kaiseki) category— a logo must communicate: A sense of luxury and refinement Trust and authenticity A distinctive, memorable identity The logo for “SHINOBI” was designed to express all three— with a strong emphasis on a modern, avant-garde aesthetic built [...]
Yakitori Restaurant Logo Design Case Study | “Yakitori KURA” – A Fusion of Modern Japanese Style and Tradition
In this article, we present a logo design case study for the yakitori restaurant “Yakitori KURA.” When designing a logo for a yakitori restaurant, it is essential to strike a balance between approachability and authentic craftsmanship. In this project, we aimed to create a design that feels modern and [...]
Ramen Restaurant Logo Design Case Study: “Katsuyama” | Traditional Japanese Calligraphy Logo
A logo plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of a restaurant. Especially for ramen shops, it serves as a visual expression of the flavor, atmosphere, and philosophy behind the brand. In this article, we introduce a logo design case study for the ramen restaurant “Chuka Soba Katsuyama.” [...]

