Introduction
Paper sizes can be a confusing topic, especially for those who are not familiar with the different standards used around the world. If you’re looking to create professional printed materials, it’s important to understand the various paper sizes available, and how they can be used to create high-quality materials. In this article, we’ll be exploring JIS B5 paper size, including its dimensions, uses, and benefits.
What is JIS B5 Paper Size?
JIS B5 paper size is a standard paper size used in Japan and other Asian countries. The JIS B5 size measures 182mm x 257mm, which is slightly smaller than the ISO B5 size (176mm x 250mm). The JIS B5 size is part of the JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) system, which was established in 1949 and is used for a wide range of products in Japan.

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Modern Applications of JIS B5 Paper
Digital Printing Trends
In today’s digital age, JIS B5 paper continues to find modern relevance across a variety of applications. It has become a popular choice in digital printing projects, especially for custom notebook designs and personalized stationery—two categories experiencing rapid growth in e-commerce. This format offers an ideal balance between portability and writing space, making it a favorite for both creatives and professionals.
Sustainability Practices
There is also a noticeable shift towards sustainable printing practices, and JIS B5 paper is no exception. Many suppliers now offer recycled or FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) options to meet the increasing demand for environmentally conscious materials.
Hybrid Use Cases
Furthermore, JIS B5 plays a unique role in hybrid workflows that blend print and digital. For instance, businesses often use JIS B5 brochures with QR codes or scannable links that connect customers directly to online content—bridging the gap between physical materials and digital engagement in marketing campaigns.
Dimensions of JIS B5 Paper Size
As mentioned, the dimensions of JIS B5 paper size are 182mm x 257mm. This makes it slightly larger than a typical A5 sheet (148mm x 210mm) but smaller than the ISO B5 size. The aspect ratio of JIS B5 paper size is 1.414, which is the same as the ISO B series and the North American Letter size.
Paper Size | Dimensions (mm) | Dimensions (inches) | Aspect Ratio |
---|---|---|---|
JIS B5 | 182 x 257 | 7.17 x 10.12 | 1.414 |
ISO B5 | 176 x 250 | 6.93 x 9.84 | 1.414 |
A5 | 148 x 210 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 1.414 |
North American Letter | 216 x 279 | 8.5 x 11.0 | 1.294 |
Notes:
- The JIS B5 paper size is part of the Japanese Industrial Standards and measures 182mm by 257mm.
- The ISO B5 size, according to the International Organization for Standardization, is slightly smaller at 176mm by 250mm.
- The A5 size is commonly used internationally and measures 148mm by 210mm.
- The North American Letter size, widely used in the United States and Canada, measures 216 mm by 279 mm.
All sizes except the North American Letter share an aspect ratio of approximately 1.414, which is the square root of 2. This consistent aspect ratio allows for easy scaling between sizes in the A and B series. In contrast, the North American Letter size has a different aspect ratio of approximately 1.294.
Uses of JIS B5 Paper Size
JIS B5 paper size is used for a wide range of printed materials in Japan and other Asian countries. Some of the most common uses of JIS B5 paper size include:

- Books and Magazines: JIS B5 paper size is often used for printing books and magazines, especially in Japan. The slightly larger size allows for more content per page, making it a popular choice for books with a lot of text.
- Brochures and Flyers: JIS B5 paper size is also commonly used for creating brochures, flyers, and other marketing materials. The size is easy to handle and transport, making it a great choice for promotional materials that need to be distributed to a large audience.
- Invitations and Stationery: JIS B5 paper size is a popular choice for creating invitations, letterhead, and other stationery items. The size is elegant and professional, making it a great choice for formal documents and correspondence.
- Technical Drawings: JIS B5 paper size is also used for technical drawings and diagrams, especially in the engineering and architecture fields. The size is convenient for displaying detailed drawings with clear and legible text.
Benefits of JIS B5 Paper Size
There are several benefits to using JIS B5 paper size for your printed materials. Some of the key benefits include:
- Versatility: JIS B5 paper size is a versatile size that can be used for a wide range of printed materials. Whether you’re creating a book, brochure, or invitation, JIS B5 paper size can accommodate your needs.
- Professionalism: The slightly larger size of JIS B5 paper size gives your materials a professional look and feel. Whether you’re creating marketing materials or formal correspondence, JIS B5 paper size can help you make a great impression.
- Portability: JIS B5 paper size is easy to handle and transport, making it a great choice for materials that need to be distributed to a large audience. Whether you’re mailing brochures or handing out flyers, JIS B5 paper size is a practical and convenient choice.
- Cost-Effective: JIS B5 paper size is more cost-effective than some other paper sizes, especially for printing larger quantities. If you’re looking to create high-quality printed materials on a budget, JIS B5 paper size is a great choice.
- Compatibility: Because JIS B5 paper size is a standard size in Japan and other Asian countries, it’s widely available and compatible with a wide range of printing equipment. This makes it easy to find suppliers and ensures that your printed materials will look great every time.
How to Choose the Right Paper Size
When choosing a paper size for your printed materials, there are several factors to consider. Some of the key factors include:
- Purpose: What is the purpose of your printed materials? Are you creating a book, a brochure, or a flyer? Different materials may require different paper sizes to achieve the desired result.
- Content: How much content will your printed materials contain? If you’re printing a book with a lot of text, a slightly larger paper size may be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you’re creating a flyer with a small amount of text, a smaller paper size may be more practical.
- Design: What is the design of your printed materials? Does it require a specific paper size to achieve the desired layout and aesthetic? Consider how the paper size will impact the overall design of your materials.
- Budget: Finally, consider your budget. Larger paper sizes may be more expensive, especially if you’re printing in smaller quantities. If cost is a concern, consider using a more cost-effective paper size like JIS B5.
Conclusion
In conclusion, JIS B5 paper size is a standard paper size used in Japan and other Asian countries. Its dimensions of 182mm x 257mm make it slightly larger than a typical A5 sheet and smaller than the ISO B5 size. JIS B5 paper size is versatile, professional, portable, cost-effective, and widely compatible. It’s commonly used for books, magazines, brochures, flyers, invitations, stationery, technical drawings, and more. When choosing a paper size for your printed materials, consider factors like the purpose, content, design, and budget to determine the best option for your needs.