Experience Tosa Washi Papermaking in Kochi | Inoue Tesuki Washi Workshop
Experience Tosa Washi Papermaking in Kochi
In today’s world, we can access a great deal of information instantly.
However, perhaps we sometimes forget what it means to live in harmony with rich, natural surroundings.
At Inoue Handmade Washi Studio, our hands-on Tosa washi papermaking experience allows visitors to encounter the wisdom our ancestors received from nature, as well as the quiet, careful time involved in traditional craftsmanship.
Our studio is not only a place for workshops, but also an active production site where handmade washi is still made today. Experiencing the beauty of handmade washi together with active craftspeople in such an authentic setting is something truly unique to Inoue Handmade Washi Studio.
As one of the very few places where visitors can try traditional papermaking inside an actual working washi studio, we offer more than just a tourist activity. Here, in a real workshop where washi is made every day, you can feel the depth of Tosa washi and the true charm of handcraftsmanship.
We also offer beginner-friendly workshops, including washi lamp making and washi panel art, which are popular activities for visitors to Kochi. These experiences can be enjoyed by first-time participants, families, and children.
Please feel free to contact us if you are interested.
The Silent Invention Handed Down Through Time
Turning plants into paper—.
Our ancestors quietly passed down this art through the generations, bringing it to the present day.
Through the process of making washi, you can experience firsthand the wisdom of living in harmony with nature and making the most of its bounty.
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 Handmade Washi Studio, you can choose from a variety of Tosa washi hand-making experiences using the clear waters of the Niyodo River and natural materials, depending on your purpose and available time.
We offer a range of plans, from casual washi lamp-making experiences that are easy to enjoy during your trip, to full-scale courses where you can take your time learning the entire papermaking process.
Perfect for making memories during your trip to Kochi or for a hands-on learning experience with your family.
Please choose your preferred plan from the options below.
※ For international visitors, interpreter arrangements are available as an additional option.
A Plan to Enjoy Creating Tosa Washi Artwork
(2-Hour Experience Plan)
Master Craftsman-Led Tosa Washi Paper-Making Workshop
(1-Day Experience)
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 is available (+¥10,000 / reservation required).
An experience where you can learn the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you can take your time experiencing the process from preparing the raw materials to hand-making the paper, while discovering the techniques and traditions of washi.
※For international guests, an optional interpreter is available (+¥10,000 / reservation required).
Course basic content
Time
10:00~12:00 / 13:00〜15:00
9:00~16:00
Price (one person)
10,000 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
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