This article introduces an overview of Izumo Washi paper.
What is Japanese Izumo washi Paper?
Izumo Washi is a traditional handmade Japanese paper produced in Yakumo Town (currently Yakumo Town in Matsue City), Shimane Prefecture.
Made in a region known as the “homeland of the gods,” Izumo Washi is simple, beautiful, and has strong durability.
As a traditional Japanese craft that combines long history and artisan techniques, it continues to be highly regarded even in modern times.
History and Tradition of Japanese Izumo washi Paper
The history of papermaking in the Izumo region dates back to the Tempyo era (729-749).
Documents in the Shosoin Repository mention that the Izumo region was a paper-producing area, indicating that this region has had a deep connection with washi papermaking since ancient times.
Papermaking in Yakumo Village was influenced by the papermaking techniques of Sofudani and is said to have begun in earnest around the middle of the Edo period.
During its peak, there were about 30 papermaking households in Yakumo Village alone, flourishing as an important local industry.
Characteristics of Japanese Izumo washi Paper
Among the various types of Izumo Washi, “Ganpi Paper” is particularly noteworthy. This paper has the following characteristics:
- Natural luster – Distinctive gloss and texture
- Excellent insect repellent properties – Suitable for long-term preservation
- High preservation quality – Resistant to deterioration over time
- Soft texture yet durable – Combines flexibility and durability
The main characteristic of Izumo Washi, known as Izumo Folk Craft Paper, lies in its manufacturing method that maximizes the natural qualities of each raw material.
This achieves a unique texture and durability that sets it apart from washi paper from other regions.
Raw Materials for Japanese Izumo washi Paper
The main raw materials for Izumo Washi are the following three types:
Ganpi
A plant of the Thymelaeaceae family, it produces paper with excellent gloss and strength. It is used especially for high-quality washi and is a representative material for Izumo Washi.
Mitsumata
Also from the Thymelaeaceae family, it produces soft, white paper. As its name suggests, it has a characteristic three-way branch structure.
Kozo
A plant of the Moraceae family, it is the most commonly used main material for Japanese washi. It produces strong and durable paper.
The unique texture and durability of Izumo Washi come from combining these materials.
The commitment to quality materials and careful processing supports the quality of Izumo Folk Craft Paper.
How Japanese Izumo washi Paper is Made
The production method of Izumo Washi preserves traditional techniques and consists of 7 main processes.
1. Bark Stripping
The inner bark is carefully stripped from the source plants. The fibrous part on the inside of the bark is used as the raw material for washi.
2. Cooking (Shajuku)
The stripped bark is boiled in an alkaline solution to remove impurities other than the fibers. This process softens the fibers, making them easier to process in the next step.
3. Lye Removal and Dust Removal
The cooked fibers are washed with water to remove the remaining lye. At the same time, small visible dust and impurities are removed by hand.
4. Beating (Koukai)
To make the fibers uniform, they are beaten with wooden mallets to loosen them. This process determines the strength and texture of the paper.
5. Paper Making
The fibers are dispersed in water, and paper is made using special frames. The skilled techniques of the artisans create paper with uniform thickness and texture.
6. Compression
Pressure is applied using weights to remove water from the papermaking process.
7. Drying
Finally, the paper is naturally dried by attaching it to boards or placing it on special drying racks.
Through these processes, paper with the unique texture and strength of Izumo Washi is completed. Since all processes are done by hand, each sheet contains the spirit of the artisan.
Current Status and Inheritance of Japanese Izumo washi Paper?
Of the approximately 30 papermaking houses that once existed in Yakumo Town, only a few remain today.
Like many traditional crafts, Izumo Washi faces challenges such as a shortage of successors and changes in demand.
However, the late Mr. Eishiro Abe, who was designated as a Living National Treasure, revitalized the tradition by adding modern sensibilities to traditional techniques, creating Izumo Folk Craft Paper.
Currently, his techniques have been passed down to his grandsons, the brothers Shinichiro and Norimasa, who continue to make washi that preserves tradition while meeting contemporary needs.
Modern Applications of Japanese Izumo washi Paper?
Due to its unique beauty and durability, Izumo Washi continues to be used in various ways in modern times:
- Stationery such as roll paper and letter paper
- Temple stamp books (Goshuin-cho)
- Lamp shades
- Materials for art works
- High-quality wrapping paper
- Interior decoration materials
As a Japanese traditional craft that fuses tradition and innovation, Izumo Washi continues to fascinate many people.
Its simple yet beautiful texture and toughness can be described as the crystallization of Japanese aesthetics and artisanal techniques.
Comparison with Other Washi-Producing Regions Nationwide
There are many washi-producing regions throughout Japan, but Izumo Washi differentiates itself from other regions through its unique texture and techniques centered around Ganpi paper.
Major washi-producing regions include Echizen Washi (Fukui Prefecture), Mino Washi (Gifu Prefecture), and Tosa Washi (Kochi Prefecture), but Izumo Washi has different characteristics and history from these, making it an important presence that demonstrates the diversity of Japanese washi culture.
Summary
Izumo Washi has a long history and tradition that has continued since the Tempyo era and has been nurtured in the land of Izumo, called the homeland of the gods.
Izumo Washi, created from carefully selected materials such as Ganpi, Mitsumata, and Kozo, and through traditional manufacturing methods consisting of 7 processes, has characteristics of gloss, excellent insect repellent properties, high preservation quality, and soft yet durable texture.
Although the number of producers has decreased, the techniques have been inherited by the descendants of Mr. Eishiro Abe, who was a Living National Treasure, and they continue to develop products that meet modern needs while preserving tradition.
Izumo Washi is not just a paper product but the crystallization of Japanese traditional culture and artisanal techniques, and is a valuable cultural heritage that should be carefully preserved and passed down for the future.