Unwrap the Charm: ‘Expanded and Revised Edition: Sweets Wrapping Paper’ Celebrates Japan’s Adorable Confectionery Art
Dive into a treasure trove of over 220 exquisite designs, from traditional wagashi to modern yōgashi, showcasing the heart of Japanese gift-giving culture.
Tokyo, Japan – Graphic-sha is set to release “Expanded and Revised Edition: Sweets Wrapping Paper” in February 2026, a captivating book that invites readers on a visual journey through Japan’s diverse confectionery packaging. This enhanced edition, a much-anticipated return of a beloved classic, features 16 additional pages and a fresh new cover, expanding its collection to over 220 items including wrapping papers, boxes, cans, and paper bags from more than 200 stores across Japan.
Authored by the celebrated writer Minori Kai, who marks her 20th anniversary in 2025, the book is a testament to her passion for discovering and preserving the beauty of regional confectionery. Kai’s meticulous collection, gathered from her travels and personal experiences, offers a unique window into the aesthetic sensibilities that define Japanese sweets culture. The designs are thoughtfully categorized, exploring both Western (yōgashi) and Japanese (wagashi) sweets, as well as collections by specific stores and artists. Each page promises to reveal the subtle elegance and playful charm that has adorned Japan’s culinary delights through the ages.
The newly designed cover itself is a piece of art, featuring wrapping paper from “Edo-ya,” a venerable confectionery store in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture—Kai’s hometown. The distinctive illustrations by Shintaro Suzuki beautifully encapsulate the book’s gentle and nostalgic world. It truly feels like holding a piece of history, imbued with the warmth of shared memories.
A Visual Feast: Exploring Japan’s Sweetest Designs
Within the pages, readers will discover an array of designs that tell stories of local traditions and evolving eras. From intricate patterns reflecting seasonal motifs to whimsical illustrations that spark joy, these wrappings are more than just packaging; they are miniature canvases of cultural expression.
The book’s table of contents highlights the breadth of its coverage:
-
Western Sweets Collection
-
Store-Specific Collection
-
Japanese Sweets Collection
-
Artist-Specific Collection
-
Special Feature: Various Leaf Species Collection
-
Handbag & Paper Bag Collection
Minori Kai, born in Shizuoka in 1976 and now based in Tokyo, is a prolific writer known for her works on travel, sweets, souvenirs, and architecture. Her ability to unearth the “kawaii” (cute) and aspirational in everyday life has garnered her a dedicated following. This book is another testament to her unique perspective, inviting readers to appreciate the often-overlooked beauty in confectionery packaging.
Book Details and Where to Find It
Title: 増補改訂版 お菓子の包み紙 (Expanded and Revised Edition: Sweets Wrapping Paper)
Author: Minori Kai
Release Date: February 2026
Specifications: A5, 160 pages
Price: 1,870 yen (10% tax included)
ISBN: 978-4-7661-4122-1
The book will be available for purchase at major online retailers:
For those interested in more of Minori Kai’s work, her related book “New Edition: Hello Folk Toys” (新装版 はじめましての郷土玩具) released in December 2025, also offers a charming exploration of Japanese cultural items.
Connecting with Graphic-sha
For further information about this release and other publications, Graphic-sha can be reached via their official channels:
-
Homepage: https://www.graphicsha.co.jp/
-
X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/Gsha_design/
-
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graphic_sha/
-
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graphicsha/
This “Expanded and Revised Edition: Sweets Wrapping Paper” does more than just showcase pretty designs; it celebrates the deep-rooted Japanese culture of thoughtful gift-giving and the artistry embedded in everyday objects. As interest in Japanese aesthetics continues to grow globally, this book will surely serve as a delightful inspiration, revealing how even the simplest wrapper can carry profound beauty and a touch of “kawaii” charm, enriching the future of Kawaii culture abroad by highlighting its intricate and often subtle expressions.
