The Platinum Izumo Yakumo Byakudan is a fountain pen that rewards those who value the act of writing as much as the words themselves. Part of Platinum’s Izumo collection, it has the presence of a statement piece, yet is designed with the kind of thoughtful details that make it an everyday writing companion.

“Yakumo Byakudan” can be translated as “Eight Clouds Sandalwood,” a name that ties the pen to themes of spirituality, harmony, and timeless artistry. Platinum often uses such names to evoke both the natural world and Japan’s cultural heritage.

The urushi lacquer finish sets this pen apart, not only for its beauty but for the tactile experience it provides. Multiple layers of hand-applied lacquer create a surface that is smooth, warm, and subtly grippy, helping the pen sit securely in the hand.

The Byakudan’s finish shifts with the light, revealing deep shades of red and brown. This visual depth pairs naturally with the physical ease of writing, creating a connection between tool and writer that grows over time.

The pen’s shape reflects Platinum’s attention to ergonomics. The Izumo body is large enough to rest comfortably in the hand without requiring a tight grip, making it ideal for extended writing. For those who enjoy writing for long stretches—journaling, drafting, or correspondence—the Izumo feels effortless.

At the heart of the writing experience is Platinum’s 18-karat gold nib. Our free nib tuning sees to it that your Izumo is writing properly and is tuned to the specifications you provide. Our optional nib customizations can add uniqueness and calligraphic styling to the writing you produce on the page.

The Broad or Medium nibs will give the best results for customizations such as Architects Point and Cursive Italic, while the Fine nib provides an excellent choice for everyday writing and note-taking.

The Izumo utilizes a cartridge-converter filling system. The pen can be filled with any bottled fountain pen ink by using the provided reusable converter – we particularly recommend Platinum’s own bottled inks, available in a variety of colors and in both dye and pigment-based formulations.

The pen can also fill using convenient disposable Platinum brand ink cartridges. Platinum uses a proprietary filling system – only Platinum brand converters and cartridges can be used in Platinum fountain pens.

Ultimately, the Platinum Izumo Yakumo Byakudan is about more than appearance—it is about the feel of writing. Its thoughtful balance and durable design make it a tool that invites you to write more often and more deeply. For those who see writing as a craft in itself, the Byakudan offers a rare combination of elegance and utility, turning every page into an experience rather than a task.

Each pen ships in a special traditionally-styled presentation box which includes instructions, the converter, and a starter ink cartridge. PacificPenWorks is an authorized retailer of Platinum, which has been producing writing instruments of high quality and memorable beauty since 1919.

Platinum Izumo Yakumo Byakudan at a glance – for more specifications, click on the Additional Information tab:

Pen Body – Ebonite
Nib Material – 18k Gold
Filling System: Cartridge-Converter
Country of Origin: Japan

Pens