The World of Washi and Japanese Crafts | Handcrafted Japanese Traditional Goods That Shine with Artisan Skill

Washi is a traditional material Japan proudly presents to the world. In 2014, it was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage as "Washi: Japanese Handmade Paper Making Techniques," and its cultural value has been internationally recognized. Thin yet durable, with a unique warm touch—the appeal of washi paper is something that once you experience it, you never forget. And traditional Japanese goods made from washi paper have gained high popularity both domestically and internationally as items that allow you to incorporate Japanese aesthetics into your everyday life naturally and subtly. In this article, based on my experience as a buyer of traditional crafts who has visited workshops throughout the country, I will guide you through the profound world of washi and Japanese traditional goods.

The Basics of Washi—A Material Fundamentally Different from Western Paper

The greatest difference between washi and Western paper lies in their raw materials and manufacturing methods. While Western paper is made by chemically processing wood pulp, washi is made by hand-forming fiber one sheet at a time in cold, clear streams, using bast fibers from plants such as kozo (Broussonetia papyrifera), mitsumata (Edgeworthia chrysantha), and gampi (Diplomorpha sikokiana). Because the fibers are long and intertwine, washi possesses several times the strength of Western paper while creating a unique appearance that allows light to pass through softly. The Shosoin Repository contains washi documents from over 1,300 years ago in excellent condition, and its durability has been scientifically proven. The price of washi varies depending on size and quality, but a guideline would be 800–2,000 yen for hand-formed writing paper sets, and 300–1,500 yen per sheet for A4-size hand-formed washi. Machine-made washi is more affordable, with wrapping paper and origami for everyday use available from around 100 yen.

The Three Great UNESCO-Registered Washi—Sekishu, Hon-Mino, and Hosokawa

The three washi papers registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage are "Sekishu hanshi" from Shimane Prefecture, "Hon-Mino washi" from Gifu Prefecture, and "Hosokawa washi" from Saitama Prefecture. Sekishu hanshi is produced in Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, and through 100% kozo fiber materials and rigorous manufacturing methods, extraordinarily strong and beautiful washi is created. It is regarded as the finest calligraphy paper and costs approximately 500–3,000 yen per sheet. Hon-Mino washi comes from Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, and is characterized by its thin, uniform finish. At the Mino Washi no Sato Hall located in the town of "Udatsu-agaru" (historic merchant houses with distinctive architectural features), you can also enjoy a papermaking experience (from 500 yen). Hosokawa washi is produced in Ogawa Town and Higashichichibu Village, Saitama Prefecture, and its appeal lies in its rustic and warm appearance. At the Washi no Sato in Higashichichibu Village, you can observe artisans' work up close, and papermaking experiences are available from around 1,000 yen per session. Beyond these, throughout the country there are individually distinctive washi production centers such as Echizen washi from Fukui Prefecture (one of Japan's oldest washi origins with 1,500 years of history), Tosa washi from Kochi Prefecture, and Inshū washi from Tottori Prefecture.

Types and Selection Guide for Traditional Japanese Goods That Add Color to Life

Traditional Japanese goods utilizing washi paper and traditional techniques are treasure troves of items combining practicality with beauty. First, the standard offerings are "washi miscellaneous goods." Items such as stamp collection books (1,500–5,000 yen), tissue case holders (2,000–4,000 yen), and small gift envelope sets (300–800 yen) are perfect as personal purchases or souvenirs. Next, "hand towels" (tenugui) are versatile cotton fabrics double-dyed using the chuusen (resist-dyeing) traditional technique. You can frame them for interior decoration, use them as lunch wraps or book covers—the uses are endless. A typical price is 800–2,500 yen per piece. "Furoshiki" (wrapping cloths) have also been reevaluated in recent years as eco-bag alternatives, with prices varying by material: pure silk (3,000–20,000 yen), cotton (1,000–5,000 yen), and polyester (500–2,000 yen). Furthermore, traditional crafts from various regions such as Kyoto's "kanzashi" (hair ornaments) and "tsumami zaiku" (silk petal folding), Kanazawa's "kaga yubinuki" (thimbles), Edo's "kiriko" (cut glass) and "bekkou zaiku" (tortoiseshell work), represent the crystallization of artisans' handiwork.

Recommended Specialty Shops and Direct Producers

When purchasing traditional Japanese goods, it is important to choose direct sales outlets from production areas or trustworthy specialty shops. In Tokyo, "Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten" on Nihonbashi boasts overwhelming selection as a specialty shop for traditional goods, offering nationwide crafts redesigned to fit contemporary lifestyles. "Yonoya Kushi-ho" in Asakusa is an established shop dating back to the Edo period specializing in tsuge (boxwood) combs, and handmade combs priced at 3,000–20,000 yen per piece are items to last a lifetime. In Kyoto, "Ura-gu" offers washi writing paper and cards in refined designs and has gained popularity particularly among younger generations. "Hakuodo" is an established shop with over 400 years of history, carrying incense, calligraphy supplies, and washi products. At Kanazawa's "Kaga Yuzen Kaikan" and "Hakuichi," you can purchase gold leaf crafts and enjoy them alongside gold leaf soft-serve ice cream. The greatest advantage of visiting production areas directly is the opportunity to hear artisans' stories about the creation process firsthand. The story behind a handcrafted item, different from mass-produced goods, will deepen your affection for the piece even further.

Tips for Caring for Traditional Japanese Goods to Enjoy Them Long-term

Washi paper products dislike moisture, so store them away from direct sunlight in a well-ventilated place. A washi paper lamp cover only needs soft-bristled brushing to remove dust once or twice a year. Hand towels become softer with use, and fraying at the edges is normal—if concerned, simply trim lightly. Washing should be done by hand or in a net bag on a gentle water setting, with air-drying as the standard. For lacquerware, avoid sudden temperature changes and microwaves, and wash gently with a soft sponge. Bamboo products can crack from over-drying, so occasionally wiping with a damp cloth helps them last longer. A major appeal of traditional Japanese goods is the ability to enjoy their "patina"—the way they change with age. The more you use them, the more their character deepens, transforming into a unique, special piece of your own. Among traditional Japanese goods, "wax candles" (warosoku) have recently gained popularity. Made from plant-based wax, Japanese candles produce less soot than Western candles and create a unique beauty with their large, flickering flame. Priced around 500–2,000 yen per piece, they are appreciated both as room décor and as gifts. When selecting traditional Japanese goods as gifts, choosing specialty shops that offer noshi paper and washi wrapping services conveys thoughtful Japanese consideration. As souvenirs for overseas visitors, traditional Japanese goods are highly appreciated items, with hand towels and furoshiki in particular receiving high praise as "Japanese design." Washi paper and traditional Japanese goods are the embodiment of "the Japanese spirit," concentrating the refined aesthetic sensibility of the Japanese people and the spirit of coexistence with nature. By learning the artisan's intention woven into each piece, your everyday life will surely become richer. SOROU.JP also carries information on traditional craft sites and experience workshops throughout the country, so please use it when planning your journey to discover traditional Japanese goods.