Yuenzumi (lamp-soot ink), Nara ink

Ink is indispensable for those responsible for administration and culture and, in the past, it was produced all over Japan. Circumstances changed, however, and there is a reason that Nara became famous for ink production. Nara, with its early adoption of lamp-soot ink production, became known as place where high-quality ink was produced, a reputation which continues to this day.