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Ozu Washi: Preserving Edo-Era Papermaking

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Discover the art of Japanese washi paper at Ozu Washi, a historic Nihonbashi shop offering paper, workshops, a museum, and cultural experiences since 1653.

Ozu Washi is a historic shop in Tokyo's Nihonbashi district, founded in 1653, specializing in traditional Japanese washi paper. More than just a store, it's a cultural center where visitors can explore the history, art, and craft of washi, with a museum, gallery, and papermaking workshops.

A brief summary to Ozu Washi

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Ozu History Museum on the third floor to learn about the history of washi and see historical documents.
  • Participate in a washi-making workshop to experience the traditional papermaking process firsthand.
  • Check the schedule for special exhibitions and events at the Ozu Gallery and Culture School.
  • Ozu Washi is closed on Sundays. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Purchase a goshuin book made from washi to collect seals from shrines and temples throughout Japan.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Ozu Washi is conveniently accessible via several train and subway lines. From JR Shin-Nihonbashi Station, it's a 2-minute walk. From Mitsukoshimae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzomon Lines, it's a 7-minute walk. Kodenmacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line is a 5-minute walk away. Subway tickets typically cost between ¥100-¥200 for a single trip. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

  • Walking

    Ozu Washi is located in the Nihonbashi area, which is about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station. From Tokyo Station, walk north towards Nihombashi. The shop is located on a side street off of Chuo-dori Avenue. Walking is a great way to explore the Nihonbashi district and discover other nearby shops and restaurants. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, a taxi ride to Ozu Washi takes only a few minutes. Taxi fares in Tokyo start around ¥730 for the first 2 kilometers, with additional charges per kilometer. A short trip from Tokyo Station to Ozu Washi will likely cost between ¥1200 and ¥1600. Be aware that fares increase by approximately 20% during late night hours (10 PM to 5 AM).

Discover more about Ozu Washi

Ozu Washi, a venerable institution in Tokyo's Nihonbashi neighborhood, has been dedicated to the art of Japanese washi paper since 1653. Founded as a paper wholesaler during the Edo period, Ozu Washi has evolved into a cultural hub, offering visitors a multifaceted experience of this traditional craft. The store itself boasts an extensive selection of washi from across Japan, ranging from high-quality papers for calligraphy and fine arts to everyday items. The warm texture and unique properties of washi, made from plant fibers like kozo and mitsumata, make it ideal for various applications, including calligraphy, crafts, and interior design. Beyond the retail space, Ozu Washi is home to a history museum showcasing the company's heritage and the role of paper in Japanese culture. Here, you can view historical documents, old account books, and displays of traditional tools, gaining insight into the world of Edo-period merchants. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of artwork made from washi, demonstrating the versatility and artistic potential of this material. For a hands-on experience, participate in a papermaking workshop and learn the ancient techniques of creating washi. Skilled artisans guide you through the process, from preparing the fibers to forming the paper and drying it. You can even design your own unique sheet of washi using colored fibers and other decorative elements. Ozu Washi is more than just a shop; it's a living testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese papermaking.

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