The Kishu Koyagami Traditional Papermaking Museum “Shiyu-en”, located in Kudoyama Town, Wakayama Prefecture, is a unique cultural attraction where visitors can learn about the history and techniques of Koyagami (Furusawa-gami), a traditional type of Japanese handmade paper, and experience the papermaking process for themselves.
Located at the foot of sacred Mount Koya, the museum combines local history, traditional craftsmanship, and hands-on cultural experiences. It is an appealing destination for travelers who want to discover an authentic aspect of Japanese culture beyond the country’s famous temples and tourist attractions.
The building that houses Shiyu-en was originally used as the residence of the chief priest of Shoriji Temple. It was also historically used as accommodation for emperors and retired emperors visiting Mount Koya, giving the building a distinguished connection with the history of the sacred mountain.
The historic building was renovated and opened as an interactive museum in 1999.
At the entrance, visitors can see a chrysanthemum crest, a traditional symbol associated with the Imperial family, reflecting the building’s former status. The roof also features an ornamental onigawara roof tile bearing the character “勝” (katsu), meaning “victory.”
These details make the building itself an important part of the museum experience. Before even entering the exhibits, visitors can appreciate the history and atmosphere preserved in its architecture.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore a wide range of materials explaining the history, production methods, and cultural significance of Kishu Koyagami.
One of the highlights is a diorama recreating traditional papermaking scenes from the period when paper production flourished in the local area. The detailed display helps visitors visualize how people once worked to produce handmade paper using traditional tools and techniques.
The museum also displays various traditional items made from Japanese paper, including kites, lanterns, and shoji paper used for traditional sliding doors.
These exhibits demonstrate how Koyagami was not simply an artistic material but an important part of everyday life. Through the displays, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation of the practical knowledge and craftsmanship that supported local communities for generations.
One of the biggest attractions of Shiyu-en is the opportunity to actually try washi papermaking.
Traditional papermaking techniques associated with the Koya area are used to create an original sheet of handmade Japanese paper. Visitors can make a unique piece of washi that cannot be found anywhere else, making the experience a memorable travel souvenir.
Several programs are available, ranging from a short introductory experience to a more comprehensive full-day papermaking program. Participants can choose a course according to their available time and level of interest.
Paper can be made in sizes ranging from postcard size to A3 size, allowing visitors to create their own handmade work to take home.
Preparing and processing kozo: Paper mulberry, known as kozo in Japanese, is an important traditional material for Japanese handmade paper. Preparing its fibers is one of the essential steps in the papermaking process.
Beating the fibers: The prepared fibers are beaten and loosened so that they can be evenly distributed during the papermaking process.
Sheet forming: The prepared fiber mixture is placed into a papermaking screen and carefully moved through the water to create an even layer of fibers.
Drying: The newly formed sheet is pressed and dried, completing the basic process of making traditional handmade paper.
Experiencing these steps firsthand helps visitors understand the delicate nature of washi production and the skill required to produce high-quality handmade paper.
Shiyu-en includes more than exhibition areas. The building also contains a traditional tea room and Japanese-style rooms, which can be used for photography, exhibitions, cultural events, and other activities.
The calm Japanese-style interior provides an attractive setting for experiencing traditional Japanese aesthetics. The combination of natural materials, traditional architecture, and quiet surroundings creates a relaxing atmosphere that complements the museum’s focus on handmade paper.
Koyagami is a traditional type of Japanese handmade paper that was produced in limited areas around Kudoyama Town and Koya Town. It is known for being relatively thick, strong, and durable.
In the past, Koyagami was used for many practical purposes in everyday life, including umbrella paper, shoji screens, paper bags, and lanterns.
The exact origins of Koyagami are not certain, and several theories have been proposed. One local tradition states that Kobo Daishi Kukai introduced papermaking techniques to the area. Whether viewed through the lens of history or local tradition, the craft became closely connected with the religious and cultural heritage of the Koya region.
At its peak, many households in the area were involved in papermaking. However, as lifestyles and industries changed, traditional production gradually declined.
Today, efforts continue to preserve and pass on the knowledge and skills associated with Koyagami so that this distinctive local craft will not be lost.
The area around Shiyu-en includes a peaceful Japanese-style garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Because the facility stands within an area associated with a nationally designated historic site, a visit can also be combined with a leisurely walk through the surrounding historic landscape.
The combination of traditional architecture, gardens, cultural exhibits, and the surrounding mountain environment makes Shiyu-en an appealing place to slow down and experience the quieter side of rural Japan.
Shiyu-en can be reached in approximately 25 to 30 minutes on foot from Kudoyama Station on the Nankai Koya Line.
The walk itself can be part of the experience, as Kudoyama retains historic streets and traditional buildings along the way. Visitors can enjoy exploring the town on foot while making their way to the museum.
Admission to the museum is free, while the hands-on papermaking experiences require a fee and advance reservation.
Travelers planning to participate in papermaking should check availability and make a reservation in advance to ensure that their preferred experience is available.
The Kishu Koyagami Traditional Papermaking Museum “Shiyu-en” is much more than a conventional museum. It is a place where visitors can discover the history of traditional Japanese paper through exhibits and then experience the craftsmanship firsthand.
The historic building, carefully recreated displays, traditional tools, Japanese paper crafts, and hands-on papermaking experience all help bring the story of Koyagami to life.
For international travelers, making a sheet of washi with their own hands can be a particularly memorable way to connect with Japanese culture. Rather than simply observing a traditional craft, visitors can experience the patience, precision, and knowledge required to create handmade paper.
When visiting Kudoyama and Mount Koya, consider stopping at Shiyu-en to discover the fascinating world of Koyagami and experience one of Japan’s traditional crafts for yourself.