Carrying Forward 450 Years of Regional Washi-Making Tradition at the Foot of Mt. Fuji
Yamakano is one of the leading washi paper mills in Nishijima, a renowned washi-producing area in Yamanashi Prefecture near Mount Fuji. Washi-making in the region dates back to the mid-16th century, initiated by the famous samurai Takeda Shingen. The region later became the first in Japan to produce “Gasen-shi,” a high-quality washi specially crafted for calligraphy and painting. Artists have long favored the washi from this region for its ability to beautifully showcase ink’s coloration, bleeding, and blurring̶key elements of expression in calligraphy̶thanks to the craftsmanship refined to meet calligraphers’ exacting standards.
History of Yamakano
Before 1920:
Started handcrafting shoji paper and sericulture paper.
Around 1945:
Started handcrafting calligraphy paper.
In 1962:
Shifted to machine made production for high quality mass production.
In 1988:
Pioneered the development of ‘Printable Washi,’ making it more practical for business use.
Present:
Also challenging to design stationery products using our papers .
YAMAKANO Co., Ltd.
CEO: Ms. Ayako Endo
https://yamakano.jp/
Address: 1152-2 Nishijima, Minobu-cho, Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture, 409-3301, Japan
Phone Number: +81-556-42-2521
Featured Products for Overseas Customers
Miniature Calligraphy Paper Bundle
Miniature 1/8 size version of Yamakano’s regular calligraphy paper bundle.The bundle contains 4 different types of calligraphy papers, each varying in color,thickness,and bleeding effect.It includes a total of 400 sheets (100 sheets per type).This exquisite washi set allows you to experience the different textures and the feel of writing on washi paper, enhancing the pleasure of writing. Perfect for various purposes such as note-taking, crafting small art pieces, and other creative projects.
Washi Notepad
Pocket-sized writing pads featuring four different types of calligraphy paper, each varying in color, thickness, and the degree of bleeding.
Washi Notepad for fountain pen
Crafted from bleed-proof washi paper, this notepad is ideal for fountain pen use.Hand-bound for easy opening, it is suitable for use with fountain pens, glass pens,water-based pens, and other writing tools.
Printable Washi Paper
This washi paper is designed for printers, enabling double-sided color printing. It is our original paper that prevents ink bleeding through, despite being thinner than regular washi. Ideal for menus in upscale restaurants and custom packaging, available colors are “Off White” and “Kinari” which includes straw fibers for an authentic texture. which includes straw fibers to create an authentic texture.
