Why You Need an Eki Stamp Book for Your Japan Trip
Siva McAteer • June 26, 2025
My Honest Experience with the Eki Stamp Hunt
Hi friends! Siva McAteer here, and I’m so excited to share one of the cutest, most unexpected discoveries from my recent trip to Japan: the Eki Stamp Book! Whether you're a travel lover, a souvenir collector, or just looking for a unique way to document your journey, this little book is a must-have for your adventure.
So, what is an Eki Stamp Book? "Eki" means train station in Japanese, and across Japan, many stations have their own special rubber stamps you can collect. These aren’t your average stamps, either. They’re super detailed, themed to the location, and honestly—adorable. Think of it as a passport to your travels across the country.
Before my trip, I snagged my Eki Stamp Book on Amazon for just about $7.99 (you can grab one here). There are tons of designs available, so find one that fits your vibe. Mine was simple but cute, and compact enough to toss in my bag every day.
My Honest Experience with the Eki Stamp Hunt
Now, full transparency: I thought I’d be hopping on and off trains all over Japan collecting dozens of stamps. But when you're 50+, sometimes your travel plans get a little... adjusted. Let’s just say, my husband and I fell in love with the convenience of Ubers and cabs. 😂
So, I didn’t hit all the train stations I originally planned to, BUT I still managed to grab some amazing stamps! One of my favorite stamp stops was the Osaka Aquarium—they had so many cute designs! And I got three at Hiroshima that I absolutely adore. But the star of my stamp collection? A beautifully detailed one from the Reclining Buddha at Nanzo-in Temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka. This temple is part of the Shingon Buddhist tradition and it was such a peaceful, inspiring place to visit.
Pro Tips for Collecting Eki Stamps
- Start Early: Grab your Eki Stamp Book before your trip so you're ready the moment you see your first stamp station.
- Look Beyond Train Stations: While Eki stamps are commonly found at train stations, you can also find them at major tourist attractions, museums, and sometimes even on the street!
- Ask Locals or Station Staff: Not every stamp is in plain sight. Don’t be afraid to ask!
- Make It Personal: Each page in the book has space for notes. I wrote down where I got the stamp and a little memory from that stop.
Why You'll Love It
Eki Stamp Books are more than just a travel gimmick. They’re a meaningful, hands-on way to capture your experiences. Plus, it becomes a conversation starter. You might even meet fellow travelers hunting for the same stamps!
Mine has turned into one of my favorite keepsakes from Japan. Even though I didn’t fill it up as much as I planned, each stamp holds a memory, a laugh, a moment of awe.
Final Thoughts
If you're planning a trip to Japan, do yourself a favor and grab an Eki Stamp Book. It's budget-friendly, lightweight, and filled with potential. You’ll come home with something more than just photos—you’ll have a handmade, heartfelt collection of your journey.
Happy stamping, friends!
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Get your Eki Stamp Book here!
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