History Of Japan Travel Wallpaper

Japan is known for its beautiful and varied scenery, with stunning mountain ranges, sparkling bays, picturesque rural villages and bustling cities. This draw has inspired an age-old tradition of travel postcards depicting these views, which in turn have come to be a popular form of wall decoration. The earliest records of Japan travel wallpaper date back to the 15th century, when prints of landmarks were given as gifts between nobles. As travel became more accessible to the ordinary person, the popularity of such travel postcards and wall decorations steeply increased. Through the centuries, Japan travel wallpaper has evolved into a genre of its own, with its own distinct style, colour palette, and themes.

Types of Japan Travel Wallpaper

The most popular type of Japan travel wallpaper is the landscape postcard – depicting tourist spots such as Mount Fuji, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the streets of Tokyo, the ancient capital of Nara, and snow-capped mountain ranges. Many of these postcards are hand-drawn and come with embossed or textured detailing, creating a more tactile and unique look. Another type of Japan travel wallpaper is the collage artwork typically found in Kyoto, with multiple overlapping images of temples framed by traditional Japanese kanji. There are also calligraphic scrolls, featuring inspiring quotes, and even miniature paper screens which depict classical Japan.

Popular Japanese Travel Wallpaper Themes

Traditional Japanese wallpaper, as previously described, typically depict landmarks, figures or buildings with a historical or mythological significance. Popular subjects for Japan travel wallpaper include Mount Fuji, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the Tōshō-gū Shrine in Nikkō, temples in Kyoto, and the renowned Seven Gods of Fortune. Aesthetic themes oftentimes seen in these designs include waves, bamboo, and blooming flowers from Japanese gardens, as well as scenes of rural life with farmers, cattle, or carts. These themes, commonly seen patterns, and detailed images make Japanese travel wallpaper both an iconic and deeply intimate look into a culture stirring with tradition.

Where to Buy Japan Travel Wallpaper

Japan travel wallpaper is easy to find, even outside of Japan. Major online stores like Amazon and Wayfair carry a large selection of modern and traditional Japanese wallpapers, including traditional scrolls and paper screens. There’s also the option of ordering bespoke designs, using photos taken while travelling around the country. Many art galleries throughout Japan also sell limited editions, such as hand-painted scrolls and screen reproductions.

Uses for Japan Travel Wallpaper

Japan travel wallpaper can be used in a number of different ways to create an authentic Japanese look in one’s home. For smaller places, paper screens are perfect as a room divider or to add a touch of charm to a window. Large framed prints are equally suited for living rooms, libraries, and doors, while tailored wallpaper can bring a whole room to life. Even for a guest bedroom or office, Japanese-style wallpaper can create a unique atmosphere that is bound to give the space a chic, Eastern flair.

How to Hang Japan Travel Wallpaper

Hanging Japan travel wallpaper is not necessarily difficult, but as with all wallpaper, there’s a certain technique that must be adopted in order to do it properly. For interior walls, wipe the walls and smooth out any bumps before starting. Measure the wallpaper and determine how many strips you’ll need, then use a pencil to mark the starting point so the pattern lines up correctly. Start at the top and work your way down, making sure each strip is joined properly and that there are no gaps or bubbles in the paper. Keep a damp rag handy to help get rid of any air bubbles, but use sparingly as the wallpaper is very delicate.

Care and Maintenance for Japan Travel Wallpaper

Caring for and maintaining Japan travel wallpaper is relatively easy and straightforward. Since the paper is prone to fading when exposed to direct sunlight, choose a more shaded wall in the house. This will help decrease fading and preserve the wallpaper for a longer period of time. Similarly, dust the wallpaper periodically to keep it from becoming stained or discoloured, and avoid using any kind of chemical cleaners as they can damage the paper.

DIY Projects Using Japan Travel Wallpaper

Purchasing or ordering a pre-made wallpaper is not the only way to show off the unique beauty of Japanese culture in an interior space. Creative individuals can explore projects like framed prints, origami lamps, book shelves, or even simple banners. Additionally, a creative wallpaper project like customizing a tatami bed or table is easier than it may seem – simply cut the wallpaper to size and use a layer of wallpaper adhesive to secure it in place.

Modern Japan Travel Wallpaper Trends

Modern Japan travel wallpaper trends focus on stepping away from traditional designs and embracing a more contemporary look. One way to achieve this is by playing around with colour combinations and abstract patterns. There is also an emphasis on using natural elements, such as trees, grasses, flowers, etc. as the main feature. This allows for much more customisation according to each individual’s style and preference, as opposed to the iconic and classical looks of traditional Japanese culture.

Colour and Texture of Japan Travel Wallpaper

The patterns, colours, and textures present in Japan travel wallpaper vary depending on the region and the artist – minimalist paper screens might feature a few subtle tones from the black and dark red hues inspiring by the ink used in Japanese calligraphy. Kyoto’s collage artwork is often full of bright reds, oranges, and golds, contrasted with tranquil greens and navy blues. In contrast, the landscapes in postcards depicting Mount Fuji or the Great Buddha of Kamakura are full of vibrant colours, from the blues of the endless sky to the snow-white of the majestic mountain peaks.

Benefits of Having Japan Travel Wallpaper

Having Japan travel wallpaper in one’s home offers several benefits. Those who are looking to improve the aesthetic of their living space can explore a unique and timeless style of wall art that itself carries its own cultural significance. Additionally, having a piece of handmade art in the home sparks conversations, encourages reflection, and makes a statement. Finally, since such wallpapers are crafted with the highest quality materials and special printing techniques, they are guaranteed to last many years with the proper maintenance.

Margarita Nelson

Margarita M. Nelson is a Japan-based writer and researcher. She has written extensively on the culture, history, and current events of Japan for various publications. She holds an MA in Asian Studies from the University of Tokyo, and is currently writing a book on the history of the Ainu people of northern Japan.

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