TRAVELER'S COMPANY is a Japanese brand born in 2006 with an object that has become iconic: the TRAVELER'S notebook, a leather travel notebook that you customize yourself and that develops a patina over the years. Behind this notebook lies a beautiful story, that of a simple idea that became a true global phenomenon.
À découvrir
An idea born in 2006
The TRAVELER'S notebook was born in 2006. It originated within Designphil, the Japanese company known for Midori paper, following an internal design competition, then made its debut at a stationery fair where the prototype attracted all attention. The idea was simple and radical: a bare leather cover, an elastic band, and notebooks that can be replaced at will. At a time when stationery was becoming increasingly sophisticated, this return to basics was appealing.
The TN nickname and a global community
Very quickly, the notebook found a loyal audience both in Japan and abroad. Users affectionately nickname it TN, share their setups on social media, exchange tips and layout ideas. This community, from travelers to bullet journal enthusiasts, has greatly contributed to making the TRAVELER'S notebook such a vibrant object, almost a practice in itself rather than just a notebook.
From MIDORI to TRAVELER'S COMPANY
Initially linked to the MIDORI brand, the notebook eventually took on a life of its own: in 2015, the TRAVELER'S notebook separated from MIDORI to become a standalone brand, TRAVELER'S COMPANY, entirely dedicated to travelers and nomadic writing. Older models still bear the Midori name on the back, a detail that amuses collectors. Designphil remains the parent company of both brands.
Handmade leather in Chiang Mai
The cover is made of vegetable-tanned cowhide leather, simply cut and handcrafted in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where the notebooks are still produced today. Elastics, closure, and cold-stamped logo complete this raw and durable aesthetic. This leather is not varnished: it lives, marks, and darkens with use, making each notebook a unique piece.
MD paper, designed for writing
Inside, the refills are made in Japan on MD paper. This paper, developed in the 1960s to offer the greatest writing comfort, is soft under the nib, resists ink bleed-through, and is especially suited for fountain pens. It is what gives the TRAVELER'S notebook its writing reputation.
The refill system
This is the whole spirit of the brand: the leather cover remains, the inner notebooks change. Lined, dotted, sketch, special papers, planners, pouches, elastic bands: you assemble your notebook according to your needs, slip several in at once, and replace what is finished. An object that lasts because it renews itself. To learn how to assemble it, see assemble your notebook.
Annual themes and the brass range
Every year, TRAVELER'S COMPANY releases its planners and accessories around a theme and regularly issues special editions, sometimes highly sought after. The brand also offers a beautiful range of brass items, pens, mechanical pencils, rulers, and clips, which also develop a patina and extend the notebook's aesthetic. More details in our guide the special editions.
Leather that develops a patina
The more you use it, the deeper the leather becomes: the color and texture evolve, marked by travels and time. Two TRAVELER'S notebooks never age the same way, and that is precisely what makes it a personal object, almost a travel companion.
A philosophy of travel
Behind the object, an idea: to make every day a journey. TRAVELER'S COMPANY designs products that awaken everyone's free spirit, the notebook serving as a companion to write, draw, paste, and keep a record. The journey doesn't need to be far; it begins on the page. It is this philosophy, as much as the quality of craftsmanship, that explains the lasting attachment of users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the TRAVELER'S notebook?
The Japanese company Designphil, through its brand TRAVELER'S COMPANY. The leather is handmade in Thailand, the refills in Japan.
When was the TRAVELER'S notebook launched?
In 2006. It will celebrate its twentieth anniversary in 2026.
Why do some notebooks bear the Midori name?
Because the brand was called MIDORI before becoming TRAVELER'S COMPANY in 2015.
Where is the leather made?
Handmade in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from the beginning.
To go further: the complete guide, Regular or Passport and the special editions. See the TRAVELER'S notebook collection.
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