KOKUYO Singapore – stationery store in Maxwell
Stationery is not something most would pay a premium for. A simple notebook from POPULAR and a pen costing less than $2 usually do the trick, making pricier stationery feel more like an unnecessary indulgence.
But Japanese stationery has earned a reputation for being more than just pretty desk accessories. From clever features that make everyday tasks easier to thoughtful designs, these products are often made with both function and longevity in mind.
And if you’re looking to upgrade your stationery stash, popular Japanese stationery brand KOKUYO has just opened its first store in Singapore – we visited the shop to give you a peek into the best items to get.
What is KOKUYO Singapore?
Located at 31 & 33 Ann Siang Road, this is the experiential hub of renowned Japanese workspace design and stationery giant KOKUYO. The space brings together its Singapore corporate office, furniture division, showrooms, and cafe under one roof.
It’s also home to the brand’s 1st stationery retail store in Singapore, where customers can browse its range of products. Beyond the craftsmanship and clever designs commonly associated with Japanese stationery, KOKUYO’s collection also features unique and innovative items designed to solve everyday problems you didn’t even realise you had.
What can I find at KOKUYO Singapore?
The shop may be small, but don’t let its size fool you – there’s still a wide selection of products to browse. Some of its most popular items tend to fly off the shelves, with the latest restock arriving as recently as the 1st week of October 2026, so don’t wait too long to head down.
Here’s a look at the items worth getting, from premium stationery to affordable everyday picks:
Different high-quality pen choices
One of their most sought-after items is the Roller Ball and Finewriter pens, priced at $60 each and available in black and silver.
For those wondering which to pick, the main difference comes down to how each one feels on paper. The Roller Ball uses a tiny rotating metal ball that glides smoothly across the page with minimal resistance, making it a good pick if you like your writing to feel effortless.
The Finewriter, on the other hand, has a firm plastic or felt-like tip that offers more resistance. It takes a bit more pressure to write with, but gives you a more deliberate and controlled feel.
And because it’s only natural to want to test a pen before spending $60, there are samples and notepads available for you to try both out before deciding which one to take home.
If those pens fall outside your budget, fret not. The store also offers more affordable options, including the ultra-fine PERPANEP SARASA ($3.50) and the PERPANEP Finewriter ($4.50). There’s also the GOODTOOLS Ballpoint Pen ($3.90), available in a variety of colours.
Innovative products such as multi-use scissors
One interesting find is the Hakoake 2-Way Scissors ($20.50), a nifty tool that doubles as both a cutter and a pair of scissors. Its sliding mechanism lets you switch between the 2 modes with a simple one-handed squeeze and slide of the handle.
In Cutter mode, the 3mm blade can be used to open cardboard boxes while keeping the main blades safely closed. Switch to Scissors mode, and the main blades can snip through things like fabric and clothing tags.
The GLOO Stick Glue ($4.90) is another clever product designed to solve stationery woes. Unlike most round glue sticks, its square shape makes it easier to apply glue precisely to corners and other hard-to-reach areas, while also keeping it from rolling off your desk.
The glue stick is paired with a round, airtight cap that helps prevent the glue from drying out, while its 360° opening makes it easy to remove from any angle. These may seem like small details, but they make the whole process of using a glue stick a lot less frustrating.
Other practical products like organisers for everyday use
The store’s selection also extends beyond stationery, with practical accessories designed to keep you organised. This includes the Pan Case ($21.50), a notebook-style organiser that unfolds to reveal 6 pockets for keeping your pens, stationery, and other small essentials neatly in place. It can hold up to 18 pens and also comes with a strap and key ring.
Another crowd favourite is the iconic Campus Notebook ($2.90). Made with smooth, bleed-resistant paper, the notebook works well with fountain pens, gel ink, and pencils. Its signature dotted ruling keeps notes neat, while the flat-lay binding lets the pages stay open as you write.
For something more compact, the YACHO Sketch Book ($4.50) serves as a handy pocket organiser. Its slim design fits neatly into the chest pocket of a work uniform, keeping it within easy reach whenever you need to jot something down. Best of all, it’s easy to carry around at just 0.3mm thick.
How do I get to KOKUYO Singapore?
Image credit: KOKUYO Workplace Singapore via Google Maps
KOKUYO Singapore is just a 4-minute walk from Exit 2 of Maxwell MRT Station. Alternatively, it is a 10-minute walk from Exit A of Chinatown MRT Station, taking you through the bustling streets of the Chinatown enclave.
Visit KOKUYO Singapore for your stationery fix
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your everyday stationery or discover innovative products that solve everyday problems, KOKUYO Singapore is worth a visit.
Make a trip down early if you have your eye on something, as many of their popular products tend to sell out quickly, but do note that the store is only open on weekdays. Alternatively, keep an eye on KOKUYO Singapore’s Instagram page for updates on upcoming restocks.
Sign Up with TSL Connect
For more guides to help with your shopping:
- 10 best buys from Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2026
- Best deals in SG this week
- JisuLife Global Experience Store pop-up in Orchard
Photography by Ernest Cheng.