Yamamoto Notebook Ro-Biki See-through Series - Duke Creta

The Ro-Biki notebook by Yamamoto Paper is a slim portrait-format booklet that derives its character from the wax-coated cover design and carefully selected interior paper. The "See-through Series" features the motif title "Duke Creta" on the cover – an image that gives the notebook its distinctive visual appearance. Yamamoto Paper, manufacturer of the Ro-Biki line, is a paper distributor and stationery label founded in 1972 in Osaka, Japan. The Ro-Biki notebooks are especially known for their wax paper covers, which develop a patina over time – the more the notebook is used, the more creases and scratches accumulate.

Special Features

• Wax paper cover with patina effect: The cover is made of wax-coated kraft paper with a smooth texture that shows creasing and scratches as it is used – each notebook thus develops a unique, personal imprint. The See-through Series implements this effect with a printed motif cover featuring the artwork "Duke Creta".
• New Chiffon Cream paper, fountain pen friendly: The interior features New Chiffon Cream paper – selected for its extraordinary writing quality and compatibility with a wide range of writing instruments, including pencil, ballpoint pen, gel roller, and fountain pen. The cream-colored, slightly warm tone of the paper makes long writing sessions pleasant for the eyes.
• 80 g/m² made from 100% recycled paper: The paper weighs 80 g/m² and is made from 100% recycled paper with an ivory tone. Despite its recycled content, the surface is smooth enough for fine writing nibs and shows only minimal show-through.
• Thread binding for 360° opening: Yamamoto Paper uses thread binding that increases bookbinding strength and allows the notebook to open completely flat. This makes it easier to write on both sides, even in the gutter area.
• Slim portrait format: The notebook measures 91 × 210 mm, offering portability and generous writing space for different use cases. The format fits in a jacket pocket and can be used in many systems for slim inserts.

Application & Tips

• Fountain pens and gel rollers: The New Chiffon Cream paper absorbs ink evenly and produces clean, clearly defined writing with fine to medium-width nibs. Particularly with water-based inks – whether from bottle or converter – ink colors show their full brilliance on the warm cream tone. Quick-drying formulas from the oil or gel-based range also work well.
• Everyday carry and bullet journaling: The notebook is the same size as a Japanese passport, is easy to carry, and works as a travel companion or for daily note-taking. The slim format forces selection – ideal for compact lists, short diary entries, or sketches on the go.
• System compatibility: The notebook is designed for Ro-Biki canvas covers but also fits many other slim systems for refill notebooks in similar dimensions. Those using multiple notebooks can stack them or combine them in a shared cover.
• Deliberately age the cover: Yamamoto uses wax paper for the cover – in keeping with the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy, these covers gather traces and scratches over time, so each notebook becomes a unique piece. If you want to keep the "Duke Creta" motif visible for a long time, you can pair the cover with a transparent cover protector.

For Paper Enthusiasts

The interior paper is alternately referred to by Yamamoto as "New Chiffon Cream" or "Soliste" – in practice, it writes with a soft texture that fountain pens respond to particularly well. Feathering or bleeding do not occur; slight show-through is present on the back of the pages, but this does not limit the usability of the reverse side. The paper weight of 80 g/m² offers more reserves than many other slim notebook inserts – a clear advantage for broad writing nibs or inks with strong shading and sheening. As a paper distributor since 1972, Yamamoto Paper brings decades of experience to the development of stationery that prioritizes the feel and function of fine paper.

Technical Data