Connect with Japanese Culture Through the Art of Mindful Writing

Have you ever wanted to experience the mindfulness of Japanese culture through its ancient writing traditions? Our professional Shodō (Japanese calligraphy) experience offers just that—a beautiful blend of creativity, discipline, and meditation.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a cultural enthusiast, this hands-on session will guide you through the traditional techniques of writing with brush and ink. With each stroke, you’ll connect more deeply with Japanese aesthetics, philosophy, and your own sense of calm.

A Step-by-Step Journey into Shodō

① Introduction

We begin with a warm welcome and an introduction to the rich history and philosophy behind Japanese calligraphy.
Shodō—meaning “the way of writing”—is more than just forming beautiful characters. It’s an expressive, meditative art form rooted in centuries of tradition. You’ll learn how this practice evolved from Chinese calligraphy, later incorporating hiragana and katakana to form uniquely Japanese styles.

② How to Hold the Brush & Prepare the Ink

Next, you’ll learn how to hold the fude (brush) with proper technique. From your hand posture to your breathing, every detail is important. We’ll guide you so your strokes flow with both grace and intention—laying the foundation for your calligraphic journey.

After that, you’ll take turns preparing the ink using a traditional suzuri (inkstone). Rather than having one per person, everyone shares a single inkstone and takes turns grinding the ink. This quiet, mindful process is not only practical—it’s a calming ritual that deepens your connection to the art of Shodō.

③ Draw Some Lines

Before writing characters, you’ll practice simple lines and brushstrokes. This warm-up is a form of moving meditation, helping you center your focus and calm your breath. Feel your mind settle as the rhythm of the brush connects you to the moment.

④ Write Some Kanji

Now it’s time to write your own kanji! You’ll choose one character from a beautiful selection—“花(ka: flower), 鳥(chō: bird), 風(fū: wind), or 月(getsu: moon).” Each one carries deep cultural and seasonal meaning in Japan.

For your final piece, you’ll write on Sekishu washi, a luxurious handmade Japanese paper recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The texture and elegance of this traditional paper elevate the entire experience—turning your work into a piece of art.

⑤ Review & Photo Time

We’ll finish the session by reviewing your work together. You’ll reflect on your progress, ask questions, and of course, take photos of your creations to remember the experience. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture—and your own calligraphy!

Japanese calligraphy (shodō)

Japanese calligraphy is a form of calligraphy, or artistic writing, of the Japanese language.
Written Japanese was originally based on Chinese characters only, but the advent of the hiragana and katakana Japanese syllabaries resulted in intrinsically Japanese calligraphy styles.
Shodo means “way of writing,” but it has meditative aspects.
Because while writing, you need to focus on posture, breath and observing how the subtleties in aesthetics are affected by our own condition.

More Than Writing—A Meditative Art

What makes Shodō so special is its meditative nature. As you write, you become aware of your posture, your breathing, and the energy behind each stroke.
It’s a quiet, focused practice that helps organize your thoughts and calm your spirit—deeply connected to the essence of Zen philosophy.

Whether you’re exploring a new art form or seeking inner stillness, this Shodō experience offers a meaningful path into the heart of Japanese tradition.

Instructor

Shiei

Japanese calligrapher

She studied Japanese calligraphy at Nara University of Education and earned her master’s degree in calligraphy from its graduate school.
She is the founder and instructor of Seihyo Shodō Kai, a Japanese calligraphy school dedicated to sharing the beauty of traditional writing.

Instructor’ s message

Japanese calligraphy has unique atmosphere which our predecessor has used brushes, inks, papers in shodō.
Also, shodō is highly spiritual culture through facing ourselves and it organizes our mind.
It is said that shodō and zen have many things in common.
I would like you to feel beautiful, calm Japanese culture through shodō-experience.

Qualifications:
・Master of Japanese Calligraphy at Graduate school of Nara University of Education