In Engishiki, a book about Japanese laws and customs written during the Heian Period (794-1185), Saga is described as the land which produced the base ingredient of paper. The actual production of paper began in the Edo Period. Nao in Yamato town of Saga city acquired papermaking techniques in the Genroku Period (1688-1704) which were spread by Yoshisuke Nodomi, who taught these techniques to villagers. Now, only one man, Susumu Tanaguchi, continues to preserve a 300-year long tradition in the mountains surrounded by nature, producing washi in the traditional handmade way from kozo bark. Nao Tesuki Washi is elaborate, strong, glossy and has excellent durability. In particular, the lanterns made from this paper are highly regarded for their high ability to absorb oil, therefore being easy to paint on. There are various other products for certain applications including wrapping paper, shoji wall paper and letter sets. Recently, sweet-scented washi using herbs has been developed and is being used as a contemporary interior item. Nao Tesuki Washi, which certainly conveys the handmade element, has been designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Saga prefecture.
● Access:
From train station: 30-minute taxi ride from Saga Station on the JR Nagasaki Main Line
Car: 10-minute drive from Nagasaki Expressway Saga-Yamato IC
● Closed irregularly
● Parking Lot: Accommodates 5 cars (free of charge)
● Contact: Taniguchi Tesuki Washi Koubou, Tel: +81-952-63-0334
