Kawaii vs. Kakkoi: Cute vs. Cool in Japanese Branding and When to Use Each
In Japan, two distinct aesthetics—kawaii (cute) and kakkoii (cool)—form the heart of many branding strategies. While “kawaii” might evoke images of adorable mascots, pastel color schemes, and gentle, welcoming vibes,
Otaku Culture and Design – What Marketers Can Learn from Fan Communities
Otaku culture has been steadily gaining global recognition over the past few decades. Originating in Japan, it now captivates enthusiasts worldwide, fueled by an ever-growing appreciation for anime, manga, video
Kanji as Art – Designing Logos that Double as Visual Poetry
When we talk about typography in design, most people instinctively think of alphabet-based scripts like Latin or perhaps the gracefully flowing curves of Arabic calligraphy. But one of the most
Kanji or Kana? How to Choose the Right Japanese Script for Your Logo
Logos tell stories. They represent your brand’s identity at a glance, making them a critical element of any business strategy. When you decide to incorporate Japanese characters into your logo,
Announcement of Holiday Closure (Golden Week) 2025
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Please be informed that AMIX will be closed for Japan’s national holiday period known as "Golden Week" during the following dates: Closure Period Sunday,
Japanese Brand Storytelling: Using Culture to Connect with Customers
In today’s saturated marketplace, standing out as a brand can be challenging. Consumers are constantly inundated with advertising, social media posts, and endless forms of digital content. Yet in Japan,
Color vs Monochrome: When to Go Bold or Stay Subtle with Your Logo
I often see brands grappling with foundational decisions that shape their entire identity. One of the most visually impactful, and often debated, choices is the color palette – or lack
Japanese Design for Small Businesses: Standing Out on a Budget
In today’s highly competitive market, small businesses face the daunting challenge of standing out without breaking the bank. One approach that has gained popularity worldwide is the incorporation of Japanese
From Samurai Crests to Logos: How Traditional Emblems Inspire Modern Branding
Samurai crests, known as kamon in Japanese, have a long and storied history dating back centuries. These distinctive emblems were once used to represent families, clans, or individual warriors, often
Avoiding Font Faux Pas: Common Mistakes with Japanese Text in Design
When designing with Japanese text, there’s far more to consider than just selecting a font that “looks cool.” From spacing issues to unexpected character alignment, Japanese typography has its own