The head incorporates asymmetrical folds to form the eyes, jaws, and long flowing whiskers.

Before you begin, it's crucial to understand the model's difficulty. With 183 distinct parts and over 27 different folding techniques, the Ryujin is widely considered a masterpiece of modern origami. The model is so complex that . The primary way to learn the collapse is through its Crease Pattern (CP) , a diagram of all the creases on a flat sheet. Official instructions and the official CP (crease pattern) are legally available only in Satoshi Kamiya's book, World of Super Complex Origami .

The transitions from the tightly packed scale grid to the thick, multi-layered leg sections require intense paper manipulation.

: Pre-creasing is typically tackled in parts: the scales, the legs/feet, and the "belly pleats". Transition Units

The head of the Ryujin 3.5 is a model within a model, utilizing a vastly different folding logic than the rest of the body.

: Creators like Daniel Brown are often cited as the gold standard for video walkthroughs of the crease pattern (CP).

: You need thin, strong paper that can hold many layers. Popular choices include Tissue Foil or Unryu.

Before attempting the Ryujin 3.5, you must build a foundation of specific origami skills. Attempting this model without prior experience in super-complex origami will lead to torn paper and frustration. Required Skills

Use a square of at least 1.5 meters per side. Recommended papers include Craft paper (approx. 20 gsm), Tissue foil , or Tissue paper treated with Methyl Cellulose (MC) glue.

The Ryujin 3.5, designed by master origami artist Satoshi Kamiya, represents the absolute pinnacle of modern origami engineering. This mythical Eastern dragon—complete with individual scales, claws, whiskers, and a fully articulated head—is widely considered one of the most challenging paper models in existence.