There’s a Notebook Like This in Japan – And It Just Changed Because of “Creepy Bugs”
In Japan, there’s a famous notebook called Japonica Gakushucho (“Japonica Study Notebook”). First released in 1970, it’s been used by generations of elementary school children as their daily learning tool.
What made it special was its cover — featuring realistic, beautiful photos of insects and plants. It wasn’t just a notebook; it was a gentle window into the world of nature.
https://karapaia.com/archives/52190826.html
The Photos Were Removed After Complaints
But around 2012, some people began saying, “These bug photos are gross” or “My child is afraid of insects.” As a result, the insect photos disappeared. The covers switched to plants, and although bug photos returned in 2020 for some notebooks, a major change is now happening again in 2025:
All covers will be replaced with illustrations.
In Japan, Even Small Complaints Can Lead to Big Changes
This is very “Japanese,” in my opinion. In Japan, even a minor complaint from a few people can influence company policies or product design significantly.
Especially in schools or educational products, the idea that something should be “safe for everyone” carries a lot of weight.
Is This Too Much “Consideration”?
Of course, being thoughtful and inclusive is important. But sometimes, in trying to avoid conflict, something unique and meaningful is lost.
The bug photos, taken by renowned photographer Susumu Yamaguchi, inspired many kids to become interested in nature. Even kids who didn’t like insects got used to the photos by seeing them every day — maybe even learning to find them beautiful.
A New Beginning, or the End of an Era?
The new illustrations are colorful and themed around “coexistence.” They’re cute, creative, and educational in their own way. Still, they can’t quite replace the realism and impact of actual photography.
In a market full of character goods and flashy notebooks, will Japonica’s new design stand out? Or will it blend in and lose its identity?
🇯🇵 Is This a Uniquely Japanese Trend?
I see this as part of a broader Japanese mindset:
- If someone is bothered, let’s change it.
- If there’s a risk, let’s avoid it entirely.
- Let’s choose what is safe and neutral over what is bold and unique.
What About in Your Country?
If a school notebook featured realistic photos of insects, and some people said it was “gross” or “disturbing,” how would your country react?
Would the company change the design to avoid complaints? Or would people say, “This is a learning opportunity — let’s keep it”?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share what you think — it’s fascinating to compare how different cultures approach these things!