11 May - 28 July 2026

Sakura Saku, The Embassy of Japan version created for Washi: The Artistic Sprit of Japanese Paper exhibition at the Gallery, The Embassy of Japan, London

Washi (和紙, ‘Japanese paper’) is highly regarded for its strength, versatility and beauty. These attributes have given it a central role in the domestic, religious and artistic life of Japan for over 1400 years, and seen paper take pride of place in temples and shrines, in palaces and homes, and in schools and workplaces.

While the origins of papermaking was primarily associated with religious and administrative uses, washi has evolved to become more than just a mere surface for artistic expresson and is used in paper screens, lanterns, umbrellas and even as an important resource for conservation.

This exhibition aims to prove tThis exhibition aims to prove that there still is an astonishing array of washi and its continued influence, inside and outside of Japan, is undeniable.