Written by Jane Pipkin
A quaint museum and gift shop, focusing on the production of Shuzenji’s traditional paper.
What is Shuzenji Washi Laboratory?
At the Shuzenji Washi Laboratory, you can learn about washi paper, a traditional paper made from kozo (paper mulberry). With a 1,000-year history in Shuzenji, this craft has been passed down through generations.
The small exhibit, available in both in Japanese and English, explains the process used to create the paper. You can also touch the raw materials and tools invovled in production. Shuzenji washi paper is renowned for its texture and durability, achieved through precise craftsmanship.
After exploring the exhibit, you can purchase various products made from washi in the gift shop. From envelopes to light shades, you’ll be amazed at the variety of items that can be created with this paper.
You can also dive deeper into its history, and try making your own washi at one of the laboratory’s workshops. The workshop costs ¥15,000, and they will send your washi to you about one week after the session. Note that the workshop takes place in Shuzenji Kamiya Washi Studio, and requires advance booking.
How to get there
To get to Shuzenji Washi Laboratory from Shuzenji Station, take the bus to Shuzenji Onsen Station. Once there, it is a 5-minute walk to the Shuzenji Washi Laboratory. The overall journey takes around 13 minutes and costs ¥260.
