About our Atelier

In our hometown, Misumi-cho, Shimane, handmade washi paper has been produced with almost same traditional techniques throughout its 1300-year history.

The town is blessed with an abundant source of pure water, a crucial element of papermaking. At its peak around 1889, the area has been home to about 6377 households of craftspeople, and is known as one of the major papermaking districts in Japan. In recent times, our papermaking technique was again recognized when Sekishu-Banshi was listed as a nationally-designated Important Intangible Cultural Asset and later by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

However, due to a declining market, the number of craftsmen has dramatically decreased, so much so that now only four households including ourselves currently maintain the tradition here.

To address such adversity, we, as a whole, actively endeavor to preserve the tradition and culture of Sekishu Washi for the next generation by fostering successors and innovating unique washi products.

Our atelier, Masao Kawahira, the leading representative, has been involved in various activities to preserve the tradition and industry, such as promoting international exchange with Bhutan and putting much effort toward acquiring World Heritage status with UNESCO.


Papermaking Workshop

Try your hand at the 1300-year-old tradition of Sekishu Washi, deep in the peaceful nature of Misumi-cho. We have short courses for beginners as well as a 1-week advanced course.

1. Half-day Papermaking Workshop for Beginners

fee: 5,000 yen per person

activity: Atelier tour & papermaking

2. One day Papermaking Workshop for Beginners

fee: 10,000 yen per person

activity: Atelier tour, papermaking, paper craft making

3. One-Week Intensive Papermaking Advanced Workshop

fee: 100,000 yen per person

activity: Try the complete papermaking process from kozo preparation to finishing.

  • Fee does not include expenses such as transportation to the atelier, meals during workshop, etc.
  • Accommodation is available nearby (ryokan style Japanese traditional inn: 8,000 yen / night per person)
  • English interpreter is available by request (2,000 yen / hour)

Contact us to request attendance for all workshops:

Contact Us