There is an aspect about Japan that I wanted to highlight on in this week’s blog post for JSA. Washi, otherwise known as Japanese paper, is often overlooked for its simplicity, but it is actually one of the most versatile and strongest products originating from Japan. Due to the unique characteristics of washi, it can be found in many of the equipment or common things you use in your daily life. So, sit back, relax, and let’s talk about how cool paper is.
First, let’s dive into the history of papermaking in Japan and how it connects to Washi. Papermaking, originally created in China, was first introduced to Japan 1,300 years ago by Korea--or rather, more specifically, by a Korean Buddhist priest named Doncho in the year 610 (Thanks Doncho). Now, the prince of this era found that the Chinese paper was too fragile and encouraged the use of natural materials found in Japan. These natural materials included kozo and hemp fibers, which helped the paper become stronger. Eventually over the years, this evolved into Japanese-style of papermaking and became known as the Nagashizuki method. This method specifically refers to the viscous formation of kozo and neri that suspends fibers evenly in the water. Not only did this method create a stronger and more versatile paper, but also became another important and influential aspect of Japanese culture.
We can further see this close relationship between Japan and this “new” style of papermaking through the linguistic construct of the word, washi. Washi contains two kanji--or Chinese characters. 和 (wa) refers to Japan, often seen in other words like 和室 (Japanese-style room) and 和服 (Traditional Japanese clothing). However, there is also another meaning behind the kanji 和。
「仲良くして、うまく混ざる」
This phrase that explain the second meaning of 和 is translated into English as:
“Getting along well and blending well.”
This depicts how well washi was able to not only improve papermaking but to also get along and blend well enough to be an important thing within Japanese culture due to its unique characteristics, including its strength, warmth, translucency, etc.
Now, washi is used in a variety of different products including lamps, shutters, dressers, other forms of furniture, and most surprisingly an electrolytic capacitor which can be found in a variety of electronics.
So, assuming you are someone passionate about Japan and its rich culture, my advice to you is to never overlook the presumably general or simple aspects of Japan. Most often, there is a unique and historically deep connection with it and Japan, that must not be taken for granted. After learning about the importance of Washi and its deep roots in Japanese culture and history, you can truly begin to understand the complex nature of Japan and continue to understand it through other (presumably) simple aspects.
~Kayla
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