Japanese ‘Rakugaki’ Culture Takes Paris by Storm: Kitpas Celebrates 20 Years, Transforms Windows into Canvases

Japanese ‘Rakugaki’ Culture Captivates Paris at Maison & Objet

Paris, France – The vibrant spirit of Japanese ‘Rakugaki’ – a culture of free, spontaneous drawing – recently took center stage at MAISON & OBJET, the world’s largest interior and design trade show held in Paris from January 15 to 19, 2026. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the innovative Japanese art crayon, Kitpas, captivated international visitors with live window painting demonstrations and its unique, magical drawing experience.

Supported by JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), Japan Rikagaku Kogyo Co., Ltd. showcased Kitpas, aiming to share the joy of expression that transcends borders and generations. The booth buzzed with activity, drawing in buyers, designers, and children alike, all eager to witness the transformation of transparent acrylic panels into vivid works of art.

Windows as Canvases: The Experiential Value of Kitpas

The highlight of the Kitpas exhibit was undoubtedly the live window painting, a core feature of the product. Artists skillfully brought to life colorful designs directly onto large acrylic surfaces, mirroring the smooth, erasable quality that allows Kitpas to be used on windows and other non-porous surfaces. This dynamic display not only fascinated Parisian onlookers but also garnered significant interest from international buyers and delighted children.

Visitors expressed their astonishment and appreciation for this innovative art form. Comments such as, “The ability to draw on home windows is so appealing,” and “It’s wonderful that you can draw without fear of making mistakes because it’s erasable,” echoed through the venue. Kitpas was recognized not merely as a writing tool, but as an “experiential art” medium that enhances spaces and liberates people’s creative potential, a value highly esteemed in the artistic hub of Paris.

Sustainable Creativity: Kitpas’s Rice Wax Evolution

For two decades, Kitpas has continuously evolved, driven by a commitment to being gentle on both people and the environment. This dedication is most evident in its primary ingredient: rice wax, extracted from discarded rice bran. This sustainable aspect resonated deeply with the environmentally conscious European market.

The exhibition underscored Kitpas’s borderless appeal and environmental consideration:

• Borderless Enjoyment: From children’s spontaneous scribbles to professional window art displays and recreational activities in elderly care facilities, Kitpas demonstrated its capacity to foster connection across ages, nationalities, and language barriers.

• Environmental Responsibility: The use of wax extracted from discarded rice bran garnered significant empathy and positive attention, aligning with the growing global demand for eco-friendly products.

A Philosophy of Inclusivity Meets Global Artistry

Since its founding in 1937, Japan Rikagaku Kogyo Co., Ltd. has championed the realization of a “Kaido Shakai” (inclusive society), centered on employing individuals with disabilities. Kitpas, a symbolic product of this philosophy, offers the magical ability to draw vividly on smooth surfaces like windows and effortlessly erase with a wet cloth. This unique combination of functionality and social mission propelled its presence at Maison & Objet.

The company’s participation aimed to convey the “experiential value” of Kitpas on its 20th anniversary. Through the renewal to sustainable rice wax materials, the brand simultaneously communicated the joy of drawing and its philosophy of an inclusive society to the discerning European market.

The Unforgettable Impact of Live Painting

To fully immerse visitors in the world of Kitpas, live painting sessions were held at the exhibition booth. The sight of large acrylic panels, representing glass windows, being filled with the vibrant colors unique to Kitpas, drew numerous attendees who stopped, watched, and expressed their admiration.

Visitor reactions highlighted both the product’s functionality and its educational value: “It’s unbelievable how smoothly it draws and how easily it erases,” and “This is a wonderful educational tool that fosters children’s creativity.” These sentiments confirmed the global appeal of Japan’s “Rakugaki bunka.”

Overseas Business Manager Satoko Oyama shared her reflections on the exhibition: “It was an opportunity to talk with shop owners who already knew Kitpas, and I truly felt that Kitpas has become established. Children’s eyes lit up the moment they picked up Kitpas, reminding me that drawing is universal.” Her words capture the profound connection forged through the simple act of drawing.

The Future of Kawaii Culture: Spreading Inclusive Creativity Worldwide

Kitpas’s successful showcase at Maison & Objet reaffirms that the joy of expression, rooted in Japan’s unique ‘Rakugaki bunka,’ is a universal language. The engagement with multinational buyers from Europe, Asia, and North America indicates a strong potential for global expansion, not just for a product, but for a philosophy that embraces creativity, sustainability, and an inclusive society.

This initiative by Japan Rikagaku Kogyo, with its long-standing commitment to social responsibility and innovative product development, is poised to bring the simple, yet profound, pleasure of drawing to more windows and hearts around the world. As Kitpas continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly contribute to a global ‘Kawaii’ culture that values both artistic expression and a compassionate outlook.

Learn more about JETRO’s initiatives: https://www.jetro.go.jp/events/odc/77c68b15e12b0d08.html
Visit Japan Rikagaku Kogyo’s official website: https://www.rikagaku.co.jp