Ogawa Washi Learning Center
experiences
Experience 1,300 Years of Washi Paper History
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
【Course A】
Fee :￥1,500 (paper sourced from local mulberry trees)
Content : Plain mulberry paper (test paper 33 cm×45 cm, 5 sheets)
Note : Completed paper will be sent at a later date (postage separate)
【Course B】
Fee :￥1,000 (paper sourced from local mulberry trees and pulp)
Content : 8 postcards (suitable for decoration as origami, etc.)
Note : Completed paper will be sent at a later date (postage separate)
≪Comprehensive Courses≫
【1-Day Course】
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.
【4-Day Course】
Fee :￥20,000 (generally conducted with a minimum of 3 participants)
Content : Classroom lecture (explanation of materials, etc.), plain mulberry paper (several sheets), large-sized paper (approx. 60 cm×91 cm, 2 sheets), mulberry tree preparation tasks, iron plate drying, etc.
How to get there
Map
Profile
Ogawa Washi Learning Center - Masayoshi Wakabayashi
For over 20 years, I’ve dedicated myself to the art of washi papermaking. As a certified Traditional Craftsperson of Saitama Prefecture, I prioritize sustainability and am committed to preserving the legacy of Ogawa washi for future generations. My mission is to ensure visitors have an enjoyable experience while showcasing the unique qualities of Ogawa washi. I invite you all to come and visit!
Nearby spots
There are different varieties of Japanese sake, and the taste of each depends on many different factors. The Mikadomatsu sake brewed at Matsuoka Brewery relies on the mineral-rich natural water of Ogawa-machi, perfectly suited for sake brewing, and rice carefully selected from all over Japan, which together with superior techniques handed down over generations of brewers, result in this exquisite sake. On this brewery tour, you can observe the meticulous sake-making process and taste the aromatic and delicious brews of Matsuoka Brewery. *Children may enjoy the high-quality mineral-rich water used to brew sake, drawn from 130 meters underground.
Experience the thrill of rafting just two-hours away from Tokyo! Dive into this 7-kilometer long adventure, navigating the exciting rapids that run through the majestic Chichibu Red Cliffs and the unique natural monument of Iwadatami, in this experience exclusive to Nagatoro. The term "Iwadatami" translates to "rock tatami" or "rock platform" and refers to the natural formation of rocks, resembling traditional Japanese tatami mats, that are the key scenic spot along the river. Our certified Rafting Association of Japan Guides, a.k.a RAJ Guides, ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable journey. This 3-hour escapade includes photo data to capture unforgettable moments. The tour content changes daily based on the water levels, and each day brings new and unpredictable thrills! You'll never know what excitement awaits you, making every outing a unique and exhilarating experience. Don't worry if you don't speak much Japanese, as English speaking RAJ Guides are also available to make sure the adventure is as enjoyable as it is memorable!
Embark on a captivating journey through Japan's cultural heritage with Miyazaki Tatami Shop's tatami-making experience. Uncover the 1,300-year history of tatami mats, integral to navigating Japan's varied climates. Join us for an immersive factory tour and hands-on session, where our amiable owner will guide you through crafting miniature tatami mats in just 30 minutes. Immerse yourself in the artistry of Japanese tradition and culture, departing with a tangible piece of cherished craftsmanship. Curious about what a tatami mat is? In essence, it's a traditional Japanese flooring material crafted from rice straw or compressed wood, commonly found in Japanese-style rooms. A standard tatami mat measures about 3 feet by 6 feet (0.9 meters by 1.8 meters), frequently used to define room layouts in Japanese architecture.
Nestled among mountains and rivers, Chichibu is a natural wonderland just a 90 minute train ride from central Tokyo. Our expert guides, who are passionate about and love the Chichibu area, will take you on a journey where you will discover the town's beloved attractions, hidden alleys, and recommended eateries and stores. Chichibu's seasonal charms vary so much that you will want to return each season. As a former center for silk production, Chichibu boasts an abundance of historical buildings that once served as homes and workplaces for wealthy silk merchants.
Chichibu Whisky Premium Tour: Experience the essence of Chichibu Whisky and traditional culture on a 2-night, 3-day journey! Start your adventure with an overnight stay in Old Folk-House Hotel, a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture. Explore the exclusive "Venture Whisky Chichibu Distillery," not open to the public. Engage in a unique activity crafting coasters from Whisky barrel materials, surrounded by the nature of Chichibu. Enjoy nature beside a campfire and on boats with warm blanketed kotatsu-tables. The tour ends with a Chichibu bar-hop, where you can savor Chichibu Whisky in local bars and fully immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japanese Whisky.