Ogawa Washi Learning Center
experiences
Experience 1,300 Years of Washi Paper History
The Ogawa Washi Learning Center is a historical building constructed in 1936 for the study of washi paper, and is a place where craftspeople can learn and practice papermaking. Papermaking experiences are available for visitors with an advance reservation.
*Brochures in English and Chinese are available, but staff explanations are in Japanese only, so if you need an interpreter, please contact the Saitama Tourism Support Desk.
Each papermaking session is carefully guided by an experienced washi craftsperson. You’ll learn the fundamental techniques and use them to craft your own paper by hand, making for an unforgettable travel keepsake.
In the Exhibition Room, visitors can delve into the rich history of Hosokawa paper, designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. With a legacy dating back 1,300 years, washi is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and serves various purposes, including art restoration. Learn the techniques, unchanged for centuries, and see the plant fibers used to make the paper. There are also artworks showcasing the versatility of washi through several creative expressions.
The raw material for washi is the bark of the Japanese paper mulberry, called “kozo” in Japanese. During the harvesting season (late November to January), visitors can observe craftspeople manually peeling and washing the bark at the Ogawa Washi Learning Center. You can also see other important processes, such as boiling bark to soften the fibers. If the timing aligns, we highly recommend witnessing these traditions firsthand.
Basic Information
Business hours / Fee
Fee :￥5,000
Content : Classroom lecture (explanation of materials, etc.), plain mulberry paper (5 sheets), papermaking, iron plate drying, etc. (paper sourced from local mulberry trees)
Note : Completed paper can be taken home on the same day. In the case of a small number of applications, you may experience the course with other applicants.
How to get there
Map
Nearby spots
Experience the art of traditional Japanese washi paper making at the Traditional Crafts Facility, located within the newly renovated Roadside Station Ogawamachi. A variety of hands-on workshops are available, offering a fun and engaging activity for both children and adults, using authentic tools and techniques.
For groups of 10 or more, advance reservations are required. Please contact the Saitama Tourism Support Desk for assistance.
Please note: On-site English support is not available. If needed, please arrange your own interpreter or translator.
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