Japanese paper sizes are a unique system of paper formats that is distinct from other paper size standards used in different parts of the world.
Unlike the standard A series paper sizes used in most countries, Japanese paper sizes are based on traditional Japanese paper making techniques and the sizes of traditional Japanese books. The Japanese paper size standard, known as JIS P 0138, defines a range of paper sizes that are widely used in Japan for printing, publishing, and other applications.
The Most Common Japanese Paper Sizes
The most common paper size in the Japanese system is the B5 size, which measures 182 mm by 257 mm.
This size is similar in dimensions to the ISO B5 size used in other countries, but the Japanese version has slightly different proportions.
Other common Japanese paper sizes include the A4 size (210 mm by 297 mm), which is also used in many other countries, and the B4 size (257 mm by 364 mm), which is slightly larger than the ISO B4 size used in other countries.
History of Japanese Paper Sizes
The Japanese paper size system has its roots in the traditional Japanese bookbinding techniques that were developed in the Edo period (1603-1867).
Books were made by folding sheets of paper in half to create double-page spreads, and then binding these spreads together to form a book. The standard size of a traditional Japanese book was known as the hanshi size, which measured 240 mm by 360 mm. This size was used as a basis for the development of the B series paper sizes in the Japanese paper size system.
The adoption of the JIS P 0138 standard in 1978 brought standardization to the Japanese paper size system. This standard defines a range of sizes that are used for different applications, including printing, envelopes, and business cards. The standard also includes guidelines for the margins and layout of printed materials, to ensure that they are readable and visually appealing.
Pros And Cons
The Japanese paper size system has some advantages over other paper size systems.
One advantage is that it is well-suited for printing traditional Japanese texts and artwork, which often have non-standard sizes and proportions.
Another advantage is that the system includes a wide range of sizes that can be used for different applications, from small business cards to large posters.
However, the use of non-standard sizes can also be a disadvantage, as it can make it difficult to find compatible envelopes, folders, and other stationery items. In addition, the use of non-standard sizes can make it difficult to integrate Japanese printing and publishing with international standards, which can limit the reach of Japanese books and artwork outside of Japan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Japanese paper sizes are a unique system of paper formats that are based on traditional Japanese bookbinding techniques and the sizes of traditional Japanese books.
The use of non-standard sizes can make this system well-suited for printing traditional Japanese texts and artwork, but it can also make it difficult to integrate with international standards. The adoption of the JIS P 0138 standard in 1978 brought standardization to the Japanese paper size system, but it remains a distinct and important part of Japanese culture today.