[KAI Alps] Experience making paper fan with traditional craft “Matsuzaki Washi” ~A moment of handicraft~

2023.02.24

“KAI Alps” is a hot spring inn nestled at the foot of the Northern Alps.
Here, on weekdays from April 1st to November 30th, 2023, we will hold a “Paper fan making experience with the traditional craft “Matsuzaki Washi” nurtured by abundant water”.

What is Matsuzaki Washi?

A traditional craft from Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture. It is said to have started in 1042, using wild kozo and elm bark, which are the raw materials of Japanese paper, for the festival of Nishina Shinmeigu Shrine, a national treasure (*). After that, as a side business during the off-season, paper-making techniques were handed down and spread as an industry in the Matsuzaki district. The reason for its development is the high-quality water of the Takase River, which flows through the southern part of Omachi City, and the abundance of resources such as plants that make strong Japanese paper. The number of hand-made paper craftsmen has decreased as the times have changed, and now there are only a few.

*Source: Shinshu Matsuzaki Washi Industry

Touch Matsuzaki Washi before and after the experience

Matsuzaki Washi (Japanese paper) made by Mr. Koshihara is used for the skylight shoji and lanterns in the KAI-Alps guest rooms.

Experience making a paper fan with traditional craft "Matsuzaki Washi" nurtured by abundant water

Duration: Weekdays from April 1, 2023 to November 30, 2023
Experience time: First day of stay 20:00-21:30 Next day 10:00-11:00
Price: 7,000 yen per person (tax included, lodging expenses not included)
Capacity: 2 groups per day *2 to 4 people per group

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