As a producer of Kozo (Paper Mulberry) and Mitsumata (Paper Bush), the materials used in Japanese paper. Ikazaki have been a center of papermaking.
The history of washi (Japanese rice paper) production in Ikazaki dates back thousands of years. Centuries-old parish registrations, written on washi, were found in the remains of Shosoin Temple. And 350 years ago, the feudal Ozu realm began promoting paper production as an important revenue source.
Unique hand-made Japanese paper was born blessed with the mountains that surround the town and the river that flows through it. Here, the knowledge and skills of papermaking have been transmitted for generations.
Master craftspeople of Ikazaki say "jaguéna" when they find their own, or a colleague's skill unsatisfactory. To introduce Ikazaki paper to the world, we use this word by taking each syllable and attaching a French word – Ja = Japon (Japan), Gué = Guérison (healing) and Na = Naturel (natural). This French acronym and a sense of self-criticism is integrated in the image of the Ikazaki paper.
The production of washi used to be considered only as an economic activity. It eventually was recognized as a National Traditional Handicraft Heritage, and was termed "Ozu Tesuki Washi" (Handmade Washi of Ozu). We, however, do not wish to rest on the laurels of our national heritage. Instead, we wish to create a new vision for the future – a vision that reflects our tradition of co-existence with nature through washi.

Situated in the southeastern part of Shikoku Island, Ikazaki has the Oda River flowing through the town and houses with tiled roof standing along its streets. The town is filled with greenery and morning mists, with bamboo groves swaying in the wind, and it is said that the wind god descends to the earth here.
The clear and beautiful water of the Oda River has always contributed to the development of Ikazaki’s paper production.
Rich nature – rivers and forests – of the area has provided Ikazaki with the resources for the making of handicrafts, and such an environment continues today. In the old days, people along the Oda River themselves produced all products that they needed for living. Today, there are still many handicrafts produced in the area, such as Japanese traditional paper, wooden sandals made of paulownia, and kites.

For more than 400 years, the people of the Ikazaki region have celebrated the Battle of the Large Kites. This is a traditional festivity that is recognized as one of Ehime Prefecture’s Official Cultural Heritage. On 5th of July every year, this heroic “battle” takes place. Participants send dozens of large kites (about 2x4 meters, or 6x12 feet, in size) airborne. Once aloft, contestants send their kites in attacks against other kites, trying to cut opponent’s lines with sharp knives called gagari, which are attached to their own line. On the same day, people celebrate the Battle of Children’s Kites, as well as a taiko (traditional Japanese drum) ceremony, which lends enthusiasm to the Battle of the Large Kites, as well as a familiar symbol of people’s desire for their children to live successful lives.