What is Ozu Washi? A Historic Washi Hub in Nihonbashi
Located in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district, Ozu Washi is a washi specialty store with a history dating back to 1653.
Here, visitors can browse countless types of washi from across Japan, explore exhibitions, and most excitingly, join a washi papermaking workshop. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a cultural hands-on experience in the heart of Tokyo.
Hands-on Papermaking at Ozu Washi – Easy and Fun for Beginners
The papermaking workshop is one of Ozu Washi’s highlights. Guided step by step, even first-timers can enjoy creating their own sheet of washi.
Step 1: Choose Your Paper Style
Put on an apron and choose from plain washi, watermarked washi, lace-patterned washi, or decorative washi with added materials.
Step 2: Mix the Materials
Using a bamboo stick, stir the fibers and neri (a plant-based thickening agent) in a water tank called sukibune.
Step 3: Scoop the Pulp with a Sugeta
Use a wooden frame called sugeta to scoop the pulp evenly, shaking it gently back and forth to form the sheet. Return the excess water to the tank.
Step 4: Dry the Paper
Transfer the wet sheet onto a board, use a special dryer to remove moisture, then place it on a heated panel for a few minutes until it’s ready to peel off.
Variations: Watermarked, Decorative, and Even Rain Patterns
- Watermarked washi: Place a stencil on the frame and pour water over it to create elegant patterns – instantly more festive.
- Decorative washi: Add colored fragments of washi or dried leaves to create your own unique design.
- Rain-patterned washi: On a rainy day, we brought the frame outside and let raindrops fall onto the sheet, capturing a natural pattern. It’s not offered every time, but the collaboration with nature was truly moving.
The process may look simple, but keeping the sheet even is tricky. Luckily, the friendly staff guide you carefully. Finished washi sheets make great souvenirs, are lightweight to carry, and can even be framed as home décor.
- Duration: about 45 minutes
- Capacity: up to 4 people per session
- Booking: advance reservation recommended (same-day spots available if open)
- Private Lesson: private group sessions are also available
Learn About Washi at the Ozu Washi Museum (3rd Floor)
On the 3rd floor, the Ozu Washi Museum displays Edo-period ledgers, tools, and other historical artifacts – free of charge. English audio guides are available, making it very visitor-friendly. In the “Ozu Washi Shoran” space, visitors can touch handmade washi from across Japan and see surprising creations such as washi dresses, flowers, and dolls.
Illustrated guides explain the papermaking process, and English videos are available upon request. There’s also a corner for quick activities like origami and postcards, perfect for those with limited time.
Shop for Washi and Unique Items (1st Floor)
The first-floor shop is a treasure trove of washi products: stationery like envelopes and letter paper, origami, calligraphy paper, Japanese painting paper, and even specialized conservation paper for restoring cultural artifacts.
Charming papier-mâché crafts, beautifully patterned sheets, and modern innovations such as washi socks and seed-embedded washi (“sprouting paper”) show how Ozu Washi blends tradition with creativity.
Conclusion – Experience Washi Culture at Ozu Washi
Ozu Washi is more than a shop. It’s a place to learn about washi’s history, experience papermaking, and take home unique items.
Above all, the papermaking workshop at Ozu Washi offers a rare chance to create a sheet of washi with your own hands – a cultural memory you won’t forget. When in Tokyo, don’t miss this opportunity to experience the depth and beauty of Japanese washi.
Want to know more about Washi? Check our article!
