Isao Honda

Isao Honda (1888–1976) was a Japanese origami author whose books played a major role in bringing origami to an international audience. At a time when relatively little information about Japanese paper folding was available outside Japan, Honda published numerous books that introduced traditional models, folding techniques, and the cultural heritage of origami to readers around the world.

Beginning in the late 1950s, many of his books were translated into English, making them some of the first widely available origami references in Europe and North America. His best-known work, The World of Origami (1965), remains one of the most comprehensive collections of traditional models from its era.

While modern origami has since evolved with increasingly complex designs, Honda’s books continue to be valued for their clear instructions and their preservation of traditional Japanese models. His publications introduced countless people to the art of paper folding and helped establish origami as a creative hobby enjoyed around the world. Today, his work remains an important part of origami history and continues to inspire new generations of folders.