Inshu-washi

Calligraphy and printing paper from Tottori, valued since the Heian period.

Inshu-washi, a distinguished traditional Japanese paper from Tottori Prefecture in the Chugoku region, holds the esteemed designation of a national traditional craft. Its rich history stretches back over 1200 years, with evidence suggesting papermaking began in the Inaba region during the Nara period. The craft flourished thanks to Tottori's pristine waters and abundant natural resources, becoming integral to local life and official record-keeping throughout the centuries. The creation of Inshu-washi relies primarily on two exceptional natural fibers: Kozo (mulberry) and mitsumata. Kozo provides remarkable strength and durability, while mitsumata lends a smooth, elegant texture and subtle sheen. These carefully prepared fibers are transformed into paper using the ancient Nagashi-zuki technique. This traditional method involves repeatedly dipping a sugeta (screen) into a vat of fiber slurry, allowing a thin, uniform layer of fibers to settle with each pour, creating an exceptionally strong and even sheet. The skilled artisans meticulously control the flow and layering, a testament to generations of refined expertise in this traditional Japanese paper craft. What makes Inshu-washi truly distinctive is its unparalleled combination of strength, graceful texture, and resistance to degradation. This highly durable paper is renowned for its longevity, making it ideal for calligraphy, sumi-e painting, woodblock printing, and the delicate restoration of cultural artifacts. It is also cherished for shoji screens, lanterns, and various traditional crafts, embodying the profound cultural heritage of Tottori. Inshu-washi represents not just a material, but a living tradition of meticulous craftsmanship passed down through centuries, vital to Japan's artistic and historical preservation.