What’s New for 2026: Hobonichi Techo
The release of a new Hobonichi Techo lineup is always something we look forward to, and the 2026 edition brings a few updates worth noting. From changes in how covers will be sold to adjustments in the paper, Hobonichi has once again taken practical considerations and customer feedback to heart. Here’s what’s new for 2026 and what it means for Techo users.
Covers Will Only Be Sold With Books
For 2026, Hobonichi Techo covers sold in the U.S. will only be available paired with a Techo book. They won’t be offered separately from any U.S.-based retailer. This change—made after careful consideration and in response to recent tariff changes—helps ensure Hobonichi can continue offering a wide variety of their products with reliable delivery.
This applies only to 2026 covers. Past-season covers may still be sold on their own, and you’ll find a selection in the Hobonichi Collection on our website. If you’re reusing a cover or buying one from a previous season, Techo books (Original A6, Cousin A5, Planner, and 5-Year) will still be available to purchase separately.
Will the 2026 Techo planners have new paper?
For Hobonichi Techo users, paper plays an important role in their planner experience. A well-made planner should handle a range of writing styles and tools, allowing its user to express themselves in a variety of mediums. Tomoe River Paper has long been a quintessential part of the Hobonichi experience, known for being incredibly thin, smooth to the touch, and surprisingly durable. It's one of the things that sets the Techo apart.
When the 2025 planners launched, some users noticed a bit more ink bleedthrough than they were used to with certain pens. True to their reputation for craftsmanship and attention to detail, Hobonichi took this feedback seriously and looked into it right away. The paper did meet the standards set with Tomoe River, but because it's made from natural fibers, some variation between batches is to be expected. Hobonichi found that slight differences in the paper’s composition may have played a role in the bleedthrough some users experienced.
Still, Hobonichi and Tomoe River decided to make adjustments to the paper for 2026, aiming to reduce ink penetration and make the writing experience feel a little more consistent. The qualities we all love—its thinness, strength, and smooth surface—are still here, but with a touch more ink-handling reliability.
We received samples of an A6 HON and a Weeks with the updated paper and ran them through a variety of pens and inks. The results were very promising. Bleedthrough was minimal in our tests, and we’re optimistic that users will notice the improvement. Of course, pens, inks, and paper batches can all behave a little differently—but we’re feeling good about what’s ahead for 2026.
The Hobonichi Techo 2026 Theme: You Love You
Each year, Hobonichi presents a different theme for the Techo Life Book. This year’s theme, You Love You, is a reminder of the value in taking time each day to use your Techo to slow down, reflect, and record what matters most—from everyday moments and passing thoughts to big occasions.
Continuing the Journey
Hobonichi continues to balance tradition with meaningful evolution. We’re excited to share these updates with our customers and look forward to seeing how the 2026 planners find their way into your daily routines. As always, we’ll be keeping our Hobonichi Collection stocked with the tools and accessories you need to make your Techo your own.
