Yoshino is nearby located in the south-east of the ancient capital city, Nara. According to the legend, the Prince Ōama (Emperor Tenmu, ?-AD686) taught the technique of papermaking to villagers. Although “Kuzu(国栖)” area of Yoshino was papermaking village since very early. The neighbouring village “Uda(宇陀)” traders started selling their paper to widely Japan in 17C, then their paper was called “Uda-Gami”.
At present, Uda-gami and Misu-gami, which is made in this village, is the most important paper for conservation and restoration for the old pictures/paints including the national treasures.

Yoshino area is also well-known with the cedar-timber industry. Recently, the cedarwood bark paper was invented, is it used as interior wallpaper. There are five workshops. All of them are the highest technique holders. Here can be one of the heartlands of Washi making.