X

Sekishu-Washi – Paper Manufacturing

Chugoku

Paper Handmade from Nature

Ishishu Washi is a specific type of Japan's traditional paper, handmade from local mulberry plants in western Shimane for over 1300 years.

Awarded UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage status in 2014, why not visit a traditional washi workshop to discover first-hand the communities and craftspeople that continue the cultural art of washi-production into the modern day?

Dating back to 600AD, legend has it that this paper was first brought to Japan by Korean Buddhist monks, and was key to the spread of the religion through the nation as scriptures were written and distributed through this new means of communication. As time passed and production increased, washi was made more durable and became utilised for what have since become a number of Japan's most famous icons – from lanterns to paper doors and even windows.

Plus, because washi production only uses the new-growth branches from each local plant, rather than cutting the entire tree down, it's also one of Japan's most eco-friendly crafts – steering clear of chemicals and machines with a traditionally handmade and natural approach.

Find out more

Plan your trip

Use our interactive map to discover everything there is to do around Japan.

Honen-in Temple by Yukito Nishinaka

Kyoto

Watch video
    Honen-in Temple by Yukito Nishinaka
  • Auberge Tokito
  • Ishigaki Blue
  • Yachimun Pottery Dojo
  • Kouraku Kiln Pottery
  • Kurume Kasuri (Fabric/Natural Dyes)
  • Sekishu-Washi – Paper Manufacturing
  • Mima Indigo Dyeing
  • Yuasa Soy Sauce
  • Kintsugi Yagi
  • Yunokuni no Mori
  • Akanko Ainu Kotan
  • Natural Life Learning Center Boken Kazoku

Ways to discover Japan

Choose one filter to begin exploring.

My Itinerary

Your personalised itinerary of craft, wellness, nature and food experiences across the unique regions and hidden corners of Japan.

Find out more

Go Beyond

Discover more curated experiences in Japan’s hidden corners.

Find out more
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
experience
page