Experience Tosa Washi Papermaking in Kochi | Inoue Tesuki Washi Workshop
Experience Tosa Washi Papermaking in Kochi
We live in an age where we can access information instantly from vast amounts of data.
Yet, it is easy to forget the way of life that exists in harmony with the rich nature of Kochi.
At Inoue Handcrafted Washi Workshop, through hands-on Tosa Washi papermaking using the clear waters of the Niyodo River and natural materials,
you can experience the quiet wisdom our ancestors learned slowly from nature.
We regularly offer workshops such as Washi lampshade making and panel art crafting,
which are especially popular among visitors exploring Kochi.
These workshops are beginner-friendly and enjoyable for families as well.
If you are interested, please feel free to contact us anytime.
The Silent Invention Handed Down Through Time
Transforming plants into paper —
This quiet invention has been gently handed down through generations.
Through the process of making washi, you can experience the wisdom of living in harmony with nature,
and the way our ancestors learned to make use of its gifts with care and respect.
Only one paper in the world
Each sheet of handmade washi paper carries its own unique color, texture, and touch.
No two are ever alike — every piece is a one-of-a-kind creation.
These subtle differences are not flaws but the very essence of handmade washi,
where the hands of the artisan and the spirit of nature come together in quiet harmony.
Workshops & Pricing
At Inoue Handcrafted Washi Workshop, you can choose from several Tosa Washi hand-papermaking experiences depending on your time and interests, all using natural materials and the clear waters of the Niyodo River.
We offer a variety of plans—from easy, sightseeing-friendly washi lampshade making, to full-day courses where you can experience the entire papermaking process.
These workshops are perfect for making memories during your visit to Kochi, or as a hands-on learning experience for families.
Please select your preferred plan from the options below.
A plan to enjoy making Tosa washi paper works
Tosa Washi Making Under the Direct Guidance of a Craftsman
You can easily experience the traditional “Nagashi-zuki” papermaking technique, and then use the washi you made to create either a panel art piece or a lampshade.
This workshop is beginner-friendly and enjoyable for all participants.
※For international guests, an optional interpreter device is available (+¥3,000 / reservation required).
An immersive hands-on experience to learn the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
With guidance from a skilled washi craftsman, you will experience the process from preparing the natural fibers to hand papermaking,
and discover the traditional techniques and cultural heritage of Tosa Washi.
Course basic content
Time
10:00~12:00 / 13:00〜15:00
9:00~16:00
Price (one person)
8,000 yen
40,000yen
Capacity
1 to 3 people
1 to 3 people
Precautions
Reservation required 10 days in advance
Reservation required 3 days in advance
Basic process of making washi paper
Remove the outer skin
○ (Tour and explanation)
○ (Demonstration)
Boiling of raw materials
○ (Tour and explanation)
○ (Demonstration)
Refining of raw materials
○ (Tour and explanation)
○ (Demonstration)
Cracking of raw materials
○ (Tour and explanation)
○ (Demonstration)
Make Japanese paper
(Pour method)
○ (Make 1 sheets of Japanese paper)
○ (Make 2 sheets of Japanese paper)
Make Japanese paper
(Nashizuki method)
Hand-papermake 2 sheets of Tosa Washi
○ (Make 5 sheets of Japanese paper)
Make Japanese paper
(Tame-suki method)
ー
○ (Make 5 sheets of Japanese paper)
Washi paper drying (boiler)
○
○
Drying Japanese paper (sun)
ー
○
Take your work home on the day
○
○ (Take all the Japanese paper you made home with you)
Lunch at a popular local restaurant
ー
○
