黒谷和紙

京都府黒谷の手漉き和紙。800年の歴史。

Kurotani-washi, a distinguished national traditional craft originating from the mountainous region of Ayabe in Kyoto, Kansai, represents centuries of dedicated Japanese papermaking. With a history stretching back over 800 years, this exceptional washi was initially developed by villagers and warrior monks seeking a durable, long-lasting paper for daily necessities and important documents. Its enduring legacy is deeply interwoven with local culture, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its creators. The remarkable strength and longevity of Kurotani-washi stem from its sole material, Kozo fiber, renowned for its long, robust strands. Papermakers employ a specialized technique called thick sheet forming, a meticulous handcrafting process that builds up dense layers of Kozo pulp to create incredibly resilient sheets. Unlike many modern papers, Kurotani-washi undergoes a crucial natural drying process. Sheets are carefully dried in the cold winter air, allowing them to slowly cure and develop their characteristic texture and superior durability, making them resistant to tearing and insect damage. This distinctive Japanese paper is celebrated for its unparalleled strength, flexibility, and beautiful, subtle texture. Historically, Kurotani-washi has been indispensable for applications requiring extreme resilience, from traditional shoji screens and lanterns to scrolls, account books, and even repair work on cultural properties. Its robust nature ensures that artifacts and information written or contained within it can withstand the test of time, cementing its vital role in preserving Japanese heritage. Kurotani-washi remains a revered example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of sustainable, high-quality handmade paper.