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Writer's pictureCultural Experience Advisor

Popular Calligraphy Experiences for Foreigners in Japan: Table of Contents

Updated: May 1

1. Introduction

1-1 What is Calligraphy?

Calligraphy is a traditional Japanese art form in which kanji, hiragana, and katakana characters are written using a brush and ink. with a history of over 2000 years, calligraphy is more than just a writing technique; it has developed as a means of cultivating spirituality and self-expression. In recent years, calligraphy has been attracting attention not only in Japan but also overseas, and the number of hands-on calligraphy classes for foreigners has been increasing.


1-2 Attractiveness of Calligraphy Experience for Foreigners

For foreigners, experiencing calligraphy is a valuable opportunity to come into contact with Japanese culture. Through calligraphy, one can learn about Japanese history, aesthetics, and spirituality. In addition, the act of writing with a brush and ink provides an unusual sensory experience and can be expected to enhance concentration and creativity.

1-3 The Current State of Calligraphy Experiences in Japan

In recent years, calligraphy classes for foreigners have been held in many parts of Japan. In particular, there are many classes in major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. At the classes, experienced instructors provide careful guidance, making it possible for even beginners to participate without anxiety.

2. what you can do in a calligraphy experience

2-1 Learn how to use a basic brush

In the calligraphy experience, you will first learn how to use a brush in a basic manner. You will be carefully instructed on how to hold the brush, how to apply ink, and how to draw lines.

2-2 Write Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana

After learning how to use a basic brush, you will write Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana. You will start with simple characters first, and gradually challenge more difficult ones.

2-3 Create your own unique work of art

Using what they have learned, students create their own unique works of art. You can also write your favorite words or names.

2-4 Experience Japanese culture

You can learn about Japanese culture through the experience of calligraphy. You can learn about the tools used in calligraphy, the history of calligraphy, and the meaning behind calligraphy.

2-5 Wear a kimono and take pictures

In many calligraphy classes, you can wear a kimono and have your picture taken. This is a uniquely Japanese experience that is popular among foreign tourists.

3. recommended places for calligraphy experience

3-1 Tokyo

There are many hands-on calligraphy classes for foreigners in Tokyo. In particular, there are many classes in tourist areas such as Asakusa and Shinjuku.

3-2 Kyoto

Kyoto is the center of traditional Japanese culture and a great place to experience calligraphy. There are many hands-on calligraphy classes around tourist spots such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kinkaku-dera Temple.

3-3 Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant city and offers a unique calligraphy experience as well. In downtown areas such as Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, there are calligraphy classes for foreigners.

4. how to choose a calligraphy experience

4-1 Content of Experience

When choosing a calligraphy experience, it is important to first consider what kind of experience you would like to have. Whether you want to learn how to use a basic brush, write Kanji characters, create a work of art, or even wear a kimono, you can choose according to your wishes.

4-2 Price

The fee for a calligraphy experience varies depending on the class and the content of the experience. In general, they range from 3,000 yen to 8,000 yen.

4-3 Location

Calligraphy classes are located in major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, as well as in other parts of Japan. If you choose a class located near a sightseeing spot, you can combine the experience with sightseeing.

4-4 Language Support

Some calligraphy experience classes for foreigners offer language support in English, Chinese, and other languages. Even those who do not speak Japanese can participate with peace of mind.


5. make a reservation for calligraphy experience

Reservations for a calligraphy experience can be made through the individual class websites or by phone. Many classes also offer online reservations.

6. what to bring for your calligraphy experience

Most classes will provide you with everything you need for the calligraphy experience. However, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing.

7. flow of the calligraphy experience

The flow of the day of the calligraphy experience will vary slightly from class to class, but generally it will be as follows

1.Reception

2.Explanation

3.Practice

4.Creating a work of art

5.Commemorative photo

8. summary

The calligraphy experience is a rare opportunity to experience Japanese culture and is a very popular activity for foreign visitors. Through calligraphy, visitors can learn about Japanese history, aesthetics, and spirituality. In addition, the act of writing with a brush and ink provides an unusual sensory experience and can be expected to enhance concentration and creativity.

Calligraphy classes for foreigners are being held in many parts of Japan, so why not try participating in one?

9. Q&A about calligraphy experience

Q1. Is it difficult to try calligraphy?

A1. Even beginners can enjoy the calligraphy experience. Experienced instructors provide careful guidance, so you can participate with confidence.

Q2. How long does it take to experience calligraphy?

A2. calligraphy experience generally takes one to two hours.

Q3. How much does it cost?

A3. The fee for a calligraphy experience varies depending on the class and the content of the experience, but generally ranges from 3,000 yen to 5,000 yen.

Q4. What kind of clothes should I wear for the experience?

A4. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing.

Q5. What do I need for the experience?

A5. Most classes provide everything you need for the calligraphy experience.

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