What’s a kamon ?
I’ll keep it brief here, but a kamon (家紋) is a Japanese family crest, a tradition that dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), and was especially used by samurai clans.
They often feature animals, plants, tools, Japanese characters (kanji), and geometric shapes.
Kamon Used as Logos
In Japan, kamon are often used as logos for businesses, shops, restaurants, and brands.
Note: People who contact me for a kamon logo often have very specific ideas in mind, but a kamon doesn’t necessarily have to be framed in a circle. It can take the shape of a hexagon, a bamboo or rope pattern, or even have no frame at all.
Japanese brands using kamon as logos
Kamon Logos I’ve Designed for Clients
Kisuke, Izakaya Restaurant in Hiroshima
Kamon logo with a rope-style frame and a kanji made up of three number 7s. See the full visual identity of Kisuke restaurant.
Autour du Japon, Concept Store Specializing in Japanese Handcrafted Goods
Kamon logo featuring a crane and a plum blossom. See the full visual identity of the Autour du Japon shop.
Daishinkan, Kendo and Iaido Dojo in Lithuania
Kamon logo featuring a cosmos flower with a tsuba (sword guard) at the center.
Other concepts proposed but not selected:
Okinawa Ryu Kempo Karate, Karate School in Australia
Kamon logo featuring indigo leaves.
Other concepts not selected:
Rama, Fine Asian Antiques in France
Kamon logo featuring a crane and a peony flower.
Kizoku Matcha, Matcha Brand
Kamon logo featuring a tea flower.
Other Japan-Inspired Logos designed for Clients
Tabinikki, Japan Travel Planner
Logo featuring a crane flying in front of the sun, with vertically written kanji characters.
Check out Tabinikki’s Instagram account.
Oni no Kobo, Online Store Offering Japan-Inspired Goods in Los Angeles
Logo featuring a Nō Namanari mask in a modern, urban style. See the full branding for the Oni no Kobo brand.
Doki Doki Lab., Natural Dyeing and French Brand of Japanese-Inspired Children’s Clothing
Logo combining a shell, sewing elements, and traditional Japanese wave and pine motifs in a hanko (Japanese seal) style. See the full visual identity project for the Doki Doki Lab. brand.
Kaiso Coaching, Career Coach in Switzerland
Logo with a subtle Japanese inspiration: ginkgo leaves.
Check out my blog post explaining my process for creating Japan-inspired logos.
