niponica is a web magazine that introduces modern Japan to people all over the world.
2016 No.18
To read the e-book you need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser and a free Flash Player plug-in from Adobe Systems Inc. installed.
Amazing Paper in Japan
Paper in Japanese Culture
Washi: Tradition and Evolution
For Rituals and Celebrations, for Art and for Fun...
Paper Brightens Up Life in Japan
Washi is light, making it perfect for kites dancing in the sky. The three here are (clockwise from top): Nambu-dako, Oni Yozu, and Oni Yocho. (Property of the Kite Museum, Japan Kite Association)
A crane figurine made with mizuhiki (twisted cord made from thin strands of washi paper). You are just about sure to see one at tables on formal festive occasions. (Photo: amanaimages Inc.)
Esugoroku paper board games. They became popular in the Edo period (1603-1867). (Property of the Paper Museum)
Karuta cards. The object of the game is to match the e-fuda (picture card) with a text. (Photo: Kuribayashi Shigeki)
An uchiwa fan will cool you down on a hot summer day. Washi paper glued to a bamboo framework. (Photos: Komaru-ya Sumii (above) and Aiba (left))
The Tanabata festival is a time to write hopes and desires on colorful paper strips, then hang them on thin bamboo poles on July 7. Scene at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto. (Photo: Sudo Koichi/Aflo)