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The Day a Vision Took Shape, 1956
In 1956, the year Japan emerged from postwar recovery and began its stride toward a brighter future, Honjo & Co., Ltd. selected its emblem—its corporate mark—through a nationwide public competition.
At that time, Japan’s Economic White Paper declared that the country was “no longer in the postwar era,” as society as a whole shifted decisively from reconstruction to growth.
In the midst of this transformation, Honjo & Co., too, sought a new “face” that would embody its mission and vision for the future.
At that time, Japan’s Economic White Paper declared that the country was “no longer in the postwar era,” as society as a whole shifted decisively from reconstruction to growth.
In the midst of this transformation, Honjo & Co., too, sought a new “face” that would embody its mission and vision for the future.
Public Call and Selection
A prize competition was announced through national newspapers, and entries were accepted by postcard.
On the back of the card, applicants would draw their design, and on the front, in the designated space, they would describe the concept—an application process unique to an era of craftsmanship and care.
In total, 758 entries were received, reflecting the remarkable enthusiasm and creativity gathered from across the country.
Judge Ikuzawa praised the chosen design, describing it as “dignified, powerful, and full of a sense of leap.”
Rō Ikuzawa, Painter, Shunya Toji, Chairman of Sumitomo Corporation
From among all the submissions, the design that was selected is the current company emblem—an abstract rendering of the Japanese syllable “ほ” (ho), which is the first character of Honjo.
This emblem embodies strength, integrity, and the image of flight.
This emblem embodies strength, integrity, and the image of flight.
The Spirit of Aspiration and Integrity in the “ほ”
As a symbol, “ほ” represents the intersection of the horizontal and the vertical, reflecting an unwavering core conviction and a leap upward toward greater heights.
This mark carries within it a quietly burning spirit—a steadfast aspiration that has guided the company through its history.
This mark carries within it a quietly burning spirit—a steadfast aspiration that has guided the company through its history.
Award
Winner
Winner
Tsutomu Mitsui (34 at the time)
A graduate of Kumamoto Technical High School, Mitsui was working at the Kumamoto branch of the Nishinippon Newspaper Advertising Company.
Well-versed in commercial art and logo design, he was a member of the Japan Mark Designers Club.
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