Sekishu paper is mentioned in the Engishiki, a Heian era (794-1185) document on court protocol, as well as the Kamisuki Chohoki, a manual on papermaking published in 1798, in which it is explained that the protector of Iwami Province taught the local people how to make paper.
Sekishu washi paper has been made without interruption for nearly 1,300 years. At first, it was made by farmers in their spare time but later became the work of specialized artisans. Today, the paper is produced using the same traditional skills and techniques as in the past.

Handmade paper differs slightly according to the plant fiber used. The long fibers of the paper mulberry (kozo) tree produce strong and supple paper. Paper made from mitsumata is taut and lustrous. Gampi paper is glossy, incredibly pliant and insect-resistant. Produced in large quantities, kozo paper was used in the past for ledgers by merchants who would throw them down their wells if a fire broke out because they knew the paper was strong enough to withstand a dousing. Items produced today include paper for shoji screens, calligraphy, stationery and business cards.