KinKaraKami Institute
During the Meiji period, Kinkarakawashi (金唐革紙) — a decorative embossed paper that captivated Europe and America with its opulent beauty — flourished as a symbol of refined Japanese artistry.
The Kinkarakami Institute was founded in 1985 by Takashi Ueda, who was deeply concerned about the extinction of this traditional craft. Kinkarakawashi is a type of wallcovering made from Japanese paper (washi), created to imitate Kinkarakawa—embossed and colored decorative leather used in European interiors. Inspired by the restoration project of the Former Otaru Branch of Nippon Yusen, an Important Cultural Property that began in 1983, Ueda meticulously studied the few remaining documents and materials. Through relentless experimentation and research into the materials, tools, and processes, he succeeded in reviving the art with his own refinements, reintroducing it to the modern era as Kinkarakami.
In 2005, Ueda was officially recognized as a Preserver of Selected Conservation Techniques by the Japanese Government. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to the creation of traditional Kinkarakami patterns and contributed immensely to the restoration of numerous Important Cultural Properties across Japan. Among his achievements, the restoration work at the Former Iwasaki Residence Garden (Tokyo, Yushima) — designed by architect Josiah Conder — remains one of his most celebrated and enduring legacies.
After Ueda’s passing, his remarkable craftsmanship and deep passion for Kinkarakami were inherited by his granddaughter, Mai Ebata, who had assisted him in restoration work during his later years, ensuring that this exquisite tradition continues into the future.
What is Kinkarakami
Kinkarakami (金唐紙) is a uniquely Japanese decorative paper inspired by Kinkarakawa, the gilded and embossed leather that was once produced in Europe and introduced to Japan through trade. Japanese artisans adapted the concept, combining it with washi and their advanced craftsmanship to create an original art form. The paper is made by applying metallic leaf to washi, then repeatedly embossing and coloring it by hand with wooden printing blocks.
Its lavish beauty led to its re-export to Europe and America during the Meiji era as “Gilded Leather Paper,” where it adorned Western-style residences and guest houses with brilliance. Though the technique once faced extinction, it was successfully revived and is now applied not only to wallpapers but also to framed artworks, accessories, and interior decor.
Invented in the late Edo period, Kinkarakami represents Japan’s unique synthesis of material refinement and artistic expression. Centered in Tokyo during the Meiji era, it embellished the grand Western-style homes of the Iwasaki and Maeda families, and found admirers abroad as well. Though production later declined, the craft was revived for cultural property restoration and continues today at the Kinkarakami Research Institute in Tokyo’s Toshima Ward. There, in a place alive with art and culture, each piece is meticulously handcrafted by artisans, carrying the legacy of history and beauty into the present day.
1987 – Hokkaido: Former Otaru Branch of Nippon Yusen (Important Cultural Property)
1990 – Tokyo: Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre
1994 – Nagano: Former Hayashi Residence (now Okaya Silk Museum) (Important Cultural Property)
1995 – Hiroshima: Kure Irifuneyama Memorial Hall (Important Cultural Property)
2000 – Hyogo: Kobe Ijokaku (Important Cultural Property)
2003 – Tokyo: Former Iwasaki Residence (Important Cultural Property)
2010 – Akita: Former Ikeda Marquis Residence (Designated National Place of Scenic Beauty)
2013 – Fukuoka: Former Kurauchi Residence (Designated National Place of Scenic Beauty)
2018 – Tokyo: Former Maeda Residence (Important Cultural Property)
2024 – Hokkaido: Former Otaru Branch of Nippon Yusen, Phase II Restoration (Important Cultural Property)
Edo Tokyo Kirari brand page
https://en.edotokyokirari.jp/brands/life/kinkarakami-institute/
Edo Tokyo Kirari online store
https://www.store.kirari.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/category/select/bid/49
Kinkarakami Institute home page