The Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition is an art competition held in Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, featuring illuminated artworks made from Mino washi, a traditional Japanese handmade paper. Artists from across Japan submit their creations, which are exhibited and judged every October.
The exhibition takes place in Udatsu Wall Historic District in Mino Town, an area designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The combination of illuminated paper artworks and historic streets creates an atmospheric setting that attracts many visitors every year.
Around 400 artworks submitted from across Japan decorate the exhibition venue. Crafted using delicate washi-making techniques, these creations use light and shadow to produce a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
The exhibition is held in the Udatsu Wall Historic District, where streets lined with buildings dating back to the Edo period (1603–1868) preserve the atmosphere of traditional Japan. The illuminated artworks blend beautifully with the historic architecture, creating a distinctive visual experience.
After dark, the artworks are illuminated, revealing a different beauty from that seen during the day. The soft glow of the washi paper against the historic streets creates a captivating world of light and shadow.
Washi-making workshops and other interactive activities are also offered, allowing visitors of all ages, from children to adults, to discover the appeal and versatility of traditional Japanese paper.
The exhibition celebrates the softness and beauty of Mino washi while showcasing new possibilities for this traditional material. The first exhibition was held on October 8, 1994, as part of the celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of Mino City’s establishment.
Works submitted through a nationwide public competition are displayed throughout the Udatsu Wall Historic District. A distinguished panel of judges carefully evaluates the entries, presenting awards that include the Grand Prize and the Illumination Award.
On exhibition days, visitors can also enjoy temporary food and merchandise stalls, street-corner concerts, and a variety of other events. The exhibition draws visitors from across Japan who come to appreciate the artworks and the historic townscape.
All submitted works are displayed, with no preliminary screening stage. Participants bring their artworks to the venue on the day of the competition and take them home after the event concludes.
More than 400 works are exhibited in most years, making the exhibition a major celebration of Mino washi and contemporary paper art. Visitors who would like to see examples from previous exhibitions can also visit the Mino Washi Akari Art Museum, where past displays have been recreated.