Washi Shop Umeda

With a history of Approx. 1,500 years, Echizen Washi is one of Japan’s oldest traditional papers, and its time-honored production methods are still passed down today. “Echizen Washi no Sato,” located in the Imadate area known for its washi production, is a theme-style facility where you can learn about washi from many angles, including exhibits of washi-related materials, watching craftspeople at work, and hands-on papermaking experiences. Along the Approx. 230 m-long street, traditional houses and street trees line the way, and the retro townscape with its stone-paved promenade is also popular as a photogenic spot.

Located within the Washi no Sato area along the street, “Washi Shop Umeda” has been in business for 40 years. Its wide selection is well regarded, ranging from everyday items like shikishi boards, stationery paper, and chiyogami, to specialized products for painting and materials for washi dolls, and some people even come from far away just for this shop. The store also carries small washi goods like book covers, placemats, and business card holders, and with over 2,000 types of washi and Japanese goods always on display, it’s fun just to browse.