Skin deep: Japan's 'washi' paper torn by modern life

Once an indispensable part of daily life in Japan, ultra-thin washi paper was used for everything from writing and painting to lampshades, umbrellas, and sliding doors, but demand has plunged as lifestyles have become more westernised. But at a small workshop in western Japan, Hiroyoshi Chinzei, a fourth-generation traditional paper maker, creates washi with a unique purpose that may help revive interest -- both at home and abroad. Full story: http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/233671-japan-washi-paper-torn-by-modern-life