MD Paper paper

Some of Japan's finest paper, this is up there alongside Life in terms of objective quality and subjective utility.

This slim, minimalist notebook looks good for all sorts of reasons. Light cream hues are part of the recipe, as is the distinctive but subtle thicker middle line. But it's even prettier with some ink on, because this paper doesn't feather, and it doesn't bleed.

It feels useful because it's smooth enough to write on without pen-pushing becoming hard work, and because - unlike a certain other brand from thereabouts - it doesn't take an age for the ink to dry. Arguably, a notebook one might actually use offers the best value of all.

 Of course it plays well with posh graphite from the same archipelago, as well. Tempted? You really should be!