I ordered this room divider with the white frame to match my walls.  It's quite nice and can be used as a decorative piece in addition to providing some privacy.  The light does penetrate through.  So it is translucent, but not transparent.  The rice paper panel isn't really rice paper.  It's more of a felt like fabric, which is idea and better than rice paper.  The wooden framing is on the front side only.  the back side is blank.  It you feel too much light is coming through, you can just add an extra layer of felt fabric on the back side with some glue.  It's a beautiful piece and a welcoming addition to the house.