Kamakura A Meditative Calligraphy Experience

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2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

This is an instructor-led Japanese calligraphy experience where participants learn directly from an experienced calligraphy master in a peaceful workshop setting.

Explore the serene art of Shodō in a mindful Japanese calligraphy workshop in Kamakura.

Under the expert guidance of Calligraphy Master Shiei, with over 50 years of experience, you’ll learn to create beautiful kanji while immersing yourself in Japanese culture.

The experience begins with an introduction to calligraphy techniques and philosophy, followed by the calming process of preparing sumi ink. As you practice brush movements and write your chosen kanji, you will discover the meditative nature of this traditional art form.

At the end of the workshop, you will create your own finished calligraphy piece to take home, along with a deeper appreciation for the quiet beauty of Japanese aesthetics.

What's Included

Step-by-step guidance from the instructor
Instructor-led Japanese calligraphy lesson
Your finished calligraphy piece to take home
Time in the workshop area during the 2.5-hour experience
Use of traditional calligraphy materials, including brush, sumi ink, inkstone, and paper
Additional personal purchases, such as the instructor’s artwork and magnetic hanging scroll display

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

After arriving at the atelier, your instructor will introduce the basics of Japanese calligraphy and the traditional tools used in the lesson, including a brush, sumi ink, inkstone, and paper.

Participants will spend most of the 2.5-hour experience in the workshop area. Rather than a self-learning activity, this is an instructor-led lesson with step-by-step guidance throughout the workshop, so beginners can enjoy the experience with confidence.

You will begin by learning about the history and meditative spirit of shodō, then practice how to hold the brush and prepare sumi ink with an inkstone. After practicing basic lines and brushstrokes, you will choose a meaningful kanji character and receive guidance as you write it.

Finally, you will create your finished calligraphy piece, called seisho, on Sekishu washi paper to take home. The experience ends with a short review and photo time with your artwork.

A Step-by-Step Journey into Shodō

* Introduction to Japanese calligraphy
* How to hold the brush & prepare sumi ink
* Practice basic lines and brushstrokes
* Write your chosen kanji
* Create your final piece, called seisho
* Review & photo time

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Japanese Cultural Experience Kamakura

Tags

Historical Tours
Art Classes
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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