Kyo Karakami Experience Karamaru

Kyo Karakami is traditional Japanese paper made by applying paint blended from mica, gofun chalk, funori seaweed glue, pigments, and other ingredients to woodblocks carved with time-honored patterns, then printing the designs by hand. Originally used as decorative paper for writing poetry, it is now used for fusuma sliding doors and wallpaper in homes, temples, and tea rooms.

Maruni Co., Ltd., which preserves this traditional craft, opened the hands-on studio to share the appeal of Kyoto’s traditional craftsmanship. The recommended program is the “Karakami Printing Experience and Studio Tour,” where visitors can try printing Kyo Karakami and watch artisans at work. Under the direct guidance of an artisan, participants print three woodblock-sized sheets of karakami, each approximately 18.5 inches wide by 11 inches high, using authentic woodblocks carved more than 120 years ago. The available woodblocks change monthly, and participants can create their own karakami by freely combining them with more than 20 colors of torinoko paper. The finished karakami can be taken home as is or, for an additional fee, made into items such as a miniature folding screen or decorative panel.
Other programs include printing postcards with postcard-sized miniature woodblocks and making karakami stamp books or panels.

The adjoining gift shop offers wooden stamps featuring woodblock motifs, karakami stationery, and more. Take home a piece of Kyoto’s traditional artistry as a souvenir of your trip.