Zine, derived from the words “magazine” and “fanzine” is a self-published book with small-circulation. Historically, zines have close ties with underground movements and communities, with some tracing their origins all the way back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They provided a medium for self-expression for groups that were denied space to voice their opinions.
Japan has had a long history of self-published creative work, such as ukiyo-e prints in the Edo period and the more recent dojinshi (self-published) fan comics. The zine movement, as it is known today, began to take root in Japan around the 2000s, with the popularization of blogs and the influence of international zine communities. But different from its beginnings, zines in Japan tend to focus on artistic and individual expression rather than political and subversive content.
My deep dive into the world of self-published print in Japan’s capital city
A Guide to Zines in Tokyo
I started making zines in college after coming in contact with them through different art and design classes—and I’ve never looked back since. Being able to be in charge of the entire production process of a publication is outrageously satisfying—from conceptualizing, writing, designing, printing, and then finally having your creation right there in your hands is an experience you don’t forget, especially the first time, and it makes you crave for more.
Since my first experience with zines, I haven’t stopped making them, buying them in art fairs and bookstores, reading and writing about self-publishing, teaching people how to make them, and even dreaming about them. My goal is to increase the general awareness of the medium and its numerous possibilities. If you share a similar passion and would like to collaborate, please don’t hesitate to contact me, or if you would like to support my work, check out the zines I made below.
Zine works: