You must be a very wealthy person to use washi for every day writing :) it is mainly used in design (for screens and such) but I agree this paper could add a certain touch to a letter you are writing to someone special.

being from art school background, I would love to hang out a little at a washi paper factory. There must be places in japan that are open for tourists and even organze workshops. that would be cool to do.

It certainly sounds nice from the description, and it's good to know it's being protected by the UNESCO Committee. The processed, machine-helmed paper we get on a daily basis feels distinctly cold and lifeless... I'd much prefer 'washi' paper to write on rather than the white paper that has been standardized to a depressing effect.

Washi definitely deserves it! It is a beautiful craft and the contemporary Japanese artists find very creative new applications to keep it alive.

I have a friend who makes washi, and tried making a few myself at his factory.They were used for printing Stock certificates, since they last much longer than ordinary paper. I use them for drawing, and now there are some washi on which you can print color Ink-jet.