Let's go to Ainokura Village in Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
As I admired the historical and cultural heritage of the Gassho-zukuri style houses, I felt my soul cleansed by the tranquil rural scenery.
Gassho-zukuri style houses were not previously just for "living,"
It was also a place for diverse production activities such as sericulture, papermaking, and saltpeter production!
In this village, there are currently accommodations where you can stay in historic gassho-zukuri style buildings and experience traditional life, as well as shops and other facilities.
Furthermore, you can even experience making Gokayama washi paper, a traditional craft!
This time, we had the opportunity to experience making washi paper under the guidance of traditional craftsman Shinya Maezaki!
Since it's the season of fresh greenery, we used only green materials and created "original washi paper" with three-leaf clovers and cherry blossom petals!
It would be great to use as a placemat, or even as a cover for a candle to make a lantern!
Inside the shop, you'll find a paper doll of Mayor Mikio Tanaka, crafted from washi paper by a traditional craftsman. It has a gentle expression and a heartwarming smile.
