Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-gao:Fountain Pen Ink Review

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao with examples and bottle

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao ink is one of Pilot's most popular blue colors and it's morning glory inspired hue is beautiful on the page. As we explore its characteristics, let's dive into the performance of this elegant ink across various aspects to see how it brings some happiness to your page.

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao on Rhodia paper

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao on Tomoe River paper

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao on Leuchtturm1917 paer

Ink Review

Supplies Used:

LAMY AL-star with medium steel nib
Rhodia No. 16 dot pad, 80g white paper
Tomoé River 52 gsm white paper
Leuchtturm1917 80g notebook

Smear Test (Dry Time):

15 seconds – Solidly between 10 and 20 seconds. This average speed won't cause any issues in most nib sizes.

Drip Test (Water Resistance):

Low – Some ink and a mildy legible line is left with the drips but the smear line is nearly gone. Be careful with the coffee cup!

Saturation:

High – Asa-gao is a bright and vibrant blue with excellent saturation. Some sheen can be seen with heavy application on Tomoe River paper.

Ease of Cleaning:

Easy – We find the Iroshizuku line to be some of the easiest inks to clean. This darker coloration may take a second or two longer to get out of the pen but it's by no means difficult!

Shading:

Medium – Swabs one through three show nice shading and a clear gradient between each. Shading shows up better on more absorbent paper like the Leuchtturm1917

Flow:

High – Like most other Pilot inks the flow is generous and feels lovely on the page. Nothing out of control but definitely a wet ink.

Packaging and Aesthetics:

This lovely 50ml glass bottle is very distinctive, and perfect for displaying your ink. This distinctive shape is instantly recognizable, and the clean label ties the look together. The opening is wide enough to fill most pens from.

Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao with bottle and various examples

If you're interested in similar colors, check out our Swab Shop where you can compare colors side by side.

Summary:

In summary, Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-Gao ink brings a sense of calm and sophistication to the writing experience. With its quick dry time, moderate saturation, and easy cleaning, this ink is a delightful choice for those who seek a touch of serenity in their writing

This color is available in 50ml bottles as well as our sample size.

Posted by Adrianne L.