Tengujōshi Papermaker
てんぐじょうししょうぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who manufactures tengujōshi, a traditional Japanese thin paper.
Description
Tengujōshi papermakers are specialists in producing tengujōshi, a traditional Japanese craft. They process raw materials like kozo (paper mulberry) through steaming, bleaching, and sun-drying, then use a papermaking solution mixed with neri (from tororoaoi) to hand-form thin, uniform sheets. The formed paper undergoes drying and finishing processes and is used for backing in cultural property restoration, mounting, etc. It requires long-term training and advanced manual skills.
Future Outlook
There is steady demand due to the inheritance of traditional culture and needs for cultural property restoration, but population decline and successor shortages are challenges.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Contract manufacturing / Made-to-order production / Self-employed individual business / Workshop employment
Career Path
Washi manufacturing apprentice → Tengujōshi Papermaker → Independent as artisan → Workshop operation → Traditional craft technology holder
Required Skills
Drying and finishing techniques / Hand papermaking technique / Operation of papermaking mold / Raw material processing technique
Recommended Skills
Cultural property restoration / Mounting technique / Washi processing and dyeing technique
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because it requires forming paper extremely thin and uniformly. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Acquiring the technique takes a long time, and continuous learning for quality improvement is necessary. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to long hours of papermaking and handling heavy materials. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical analysis is not required in the processes. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because the work mainly involves focused tasks in a relatively quiet environment. |
Aliases
- Tengujōshi Artisan
Related Jobs
- Hand Papermaker
- Pulp Paper Manufacturer
- Washi Manufacturer