Inshu Washi Traditional Workshop Kamingusaji

Inshu washi is the collective name for handmade papers produced in the eastern part of Tottori Prefecture, formerly known as the Inaba region. Today the craft continues mainly in Saji-cho and Aoya-cho in Tottori City. The exact origins of Inshu washi are unknown, but its history is said to exceed 1,200 years. Thanks to the clear water flowing from the surrounding mountains and the availability of fibers such as kozo, production flourished and Inshu washi was even exported overseas during the Azuchi-Momoyama period.

Kamingusaji is a workshop that carries on this heritage in Saji-cho. Inside the studio, visitors can observe the papermaking process from raw material preparation to scooping, pressing and drying, and see how artisans work with the fibers and water each day. The workshop is open during the day and welcomes visitors who wish to experience the world of handmade washi.

The "Make" section of the website introduces the papermaking experience program, which offers five types of menus including postcards, shikishi boards, coasters, bookmarks and uchiwa fans. Each menu clearly states the fee and estimated time required, making it easy to incorporate into family trips, school excursions and group activities. The handmade sheets can be used for letters, messages or artwork, allowing participants to feel the warmth and texture of washi.

In the "Search" section, Kamingusaji presents examples of original washi and washi products that have been produced to date and explains that it accepts orders for custom-made washi and small-lot washi products. By collaborating with companies and brands on items such as store fixtures, product packaging and commemorative goods, the workshop explores new possibilities for using Inshu washi in contemporary contexts.

The "Buy" section functions as an online shop for purchasing hand-scooped gasen papers and other washi products. The legal information page states that the shop deals in paper and related products produced by Kamingusaji Co., Ltd. and members of the Inshu Washi Cooperative, providing a clear and reliable framework for purchasing traditional Inshu washi. At the same time, the workshop continues to develop products that fit modern lifestyles while preserving the core techniques of handmade paper.

By offering opportunities to learn about, make, commission and purchase washi, Kamingusaji serves as a gateway to the long history and rich expressions of Inshu washi. Rooted in the landscape of Saji-cho, the workshop aims to pass on the appeal of handmade paper to future generations, while inviting visitors to experience the charm of washi in person.

Inshu washi made in the nature-rich village of Saji

Saji is a small mountain village in eastern Tottori, blessed with clear streams and abundant forests. In this environment, Inshu washi has been produced for centuries, making use of clean water from the surrounding mountains and fibers such as kozo. Kamingusaji is located in the center of Saji and serves as a workplace for washi artisans who keep this regional paper tradition alive.

Hands-on papermaking and studio tours

At Kamingusaji, visitors can take part in hands-on papermaking experiences and tours of the workshop. Experience menus include postcards, shikishi boards, coasters, bookmarks and uchiwa fans, and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Participants can take home the sheets they scoop themselves, creating a one-of-a-kind souvenir that conveys the warmth of handmade paper.

Gasen paper, original washi and small-lot production

Through the online shop, Kamingusaji offers hand-scooped gasen paper suitable for sumi-e ink painting, kanji and kana calligraphy, including papers such as Hiryuu and Gyokuhou with different bleeding and texture characteristics. The workshop also accepts orders for original washi and small-lot washi products, providing customized materials and items for stationery, packaging, notebooks and other uses.