Mindfulness Calligraphy Experience in Kyoto

1 hour (approximately)
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

A unique Japanese cultural experience that goes beyond a traditional calligraphy lesson.

Developed and supervised by internationally active Japanese calligrapher Tyjun Nagayama and mental wellness professional and calligrapher Noriko Nagasawa, the program brings together Japanese calligraphy, Zen, Shakyo, and mindfulness.

The experience invites you to slow down and connect with the deeper meaning of a Kanji that resonates with you, expressing it through your own brushwork.

Engage all five senses through the fragrance of traditional Japanese ink, the sound of birdsong and leaves rustling in the breeze, the feel of the brush, and the taste of Japanese green tea and traditional sweets.

Your chosen character is written on a Shikishi board and specially framed for you to take home as a personal keepsake of Kyoto.

Limited to 8 participants per session, this peaceful experience offers a meaningful way to discover Japanese culture

What's Included

Japanese calligraphy and mindfulness experience
Shikishi board and special framing of your artwork
For experiences of 60 minutes or longer, traditional Japanese sweets and green tea are served, offering guests a moment to relax and savor Japanese hospitality.
Calligraphy materials including brush, ink, and inkstone

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet us at Asahido Craft Shop Asahi Touan. Our staff will be waiting for you at the entrance.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Begin at Workshop BIKI KOBO, within Asahi Touan (朝日陶庵) in Kyoto’s historic Kiyomizu area, just steps from Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Limited to 8 participants, this intimate experience combines Japanese calligraphy with Zen-inspired mindfulness and the spirit of Shakyo, the traditional practice of hand-copying Buddhist sutras.

Begin with quiet meditation and an introduction to Zen, the Heart Sutra (Hannya Shingyo), and the deeper meanings of Japanese kanji.

Slowly grind an ink stick on an inkstone, noticing its subtle fragrance while listening to birdsong and leaves rustling in the breeze.
Choose a kanji that resonates with you, reflect on its meaning, and learn Japanese calligraphy from a professional calligraphy instructor.
Focus on your breathing, the brush movement, and each stroke.

Experience Japanese culture through all five senses, with Japanese green tea and traditional sweets.

Finally, write your chosen character on a Shikishi board.
Your finished work will be specially framed for you to take home as a meaningful keepsake of Kyoto.

No previous calligraphy experience is required.
This is more than a calligraphy lesson—it is a mindful journey through Japanese culture.

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by MEDICAL SHAKYO Mindfulness Experience

Tags

Art Classes
Seasonal
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}