Kitpas

Kitpas & Chalk by Nihon Rikagaku

Nihon Rikagaku has been making quality art materials for over 80 years. Rikagaku chalk products began as regular hard white chalks made from calcium carbonate and were the preferred brand for many schools and businesses.

In 1967 Rikagaku expanded its production and added a factory in Bibai-shi, Hokkaido Japan. Bibai-shi, which translates to, “beautiful shell city,” actually had massive waste piles of scallop shells that were causing serious environmental issues. It seemed only natural to reduce, reuse and recycle this material. The use of powdered shells had the additional benefit of making Rikagaku Chalks stronger, smoother, and longer lasting! It’s no surprise that more than 60% of the chalks currently used by schools in Japan are Rikagaku Chalks.

In 2005 came the buttery smooth, multi-surface, vividly colored, and water soluble Kitpas Art Crayons which are also completely non-toxic and easy to clean up. They soon became both kids' and parents' favorite choice of crayons, winning Japan’s prestigious “Stationary of the Year Award” in 2009.

Today, Rikagaku has evolved into Japan's leading manufacturer of innovative, eco-friendly art materials. We know you will love these products - let your creativity flow with Kitpas!