Learn Japanese Zen Calligraphy in Kimono near Osaka Castle

Overview

Experience the beauty and discipline of Japanese Zen calligraphy, dressed in a traditional kimono, near the iconic Osaka Castle.

Begin by changing into a kimono and learning the fundamental principles and etiquette of Japanese calligraphy. After mastering basic brush strokes, select a "kanji" (Japanese character) of your choice to express through your art.

Even beginners can learn how to use the brush by practicing repeatedly. It is important to note, however, that we must actually understand the technique used, rather than just practicing in the dark.

You'll observe and learn from the teacher's demonstration by example. Calligraphy is a traditional Japanese culture that uses brush and ink to express characters artistically, and is appreciated for the neatness of the characters, the way the brush is carried, the shade of the ink, and the beauty of the overall arrangement.

Highlights

• The only place near Osaka Castle where you can experience such immersive samurai calligraphy
• Receive personalized guidance from a master calligrapher
• Learn essential brush stroke techniques, including "tome" (stop), "hane" (spring), and "harai" (sweep)
• Convert your name into kanji, masterfully rendered by a calligraphy expert
• Book with a Rakuten account to earn points for each reservation

Important Information

Suitable for ages 6+

Please bring undershirts and underpants (t-shirts are acceptable) to wear as innerwear for hakama and kimono; we have a few innerwear available for loan, but sizes are limited

Japanese swords are handled by a master with 10 years of swordsmanship experience, who will instruct you before you try out the sword

Staff who can speak two or three languages (English, Spanish, and Japanese) will provide interpretation

A welcome drink is provided: taste matcha, a traditional Japanese popular beverage (quench your thirst with iced green matcha during the summer months)

About Calligraphy

The following information is required by the calligraphy teachers in preparation for the activity; please inform us of the following information before the day of the experience:

Your full name

Email address to send the photo shooting data to

Optional Add-On

Hanging Scrolls: For an additional 2,200 JPY, add a hanging scroll featuring traditional Japanese art with 1300 years of history; challenge yourself to write the kanji you have practiced on the hanging scroll or ask a master to write your mastery skills on it as a souvenir

What to Bring

Undergarments to wear beneath samurai outfit (e.g. t-shirt and underpants)

Your “booking confirmed” email from Rakuten Travel Experiences

Meeting Point

Samurai Honor, Excellence Takayama 1F

Venue Address

Excellence Takayama, 2-3-19 Shiginonishi, Joto-ku, Osaka-shi, Ōsaka Prefecture, Japan, 536-0014

Cancellation Policy

No-show: You pay 100% of experience price

Same day: You pay 100% of experience price

Previous day: Free cancellation

Description

Explanation

Delve into the world of Japanese calligraphy. We'll start with an explanation of calligraphy, followed by an introduction to the proper etiquette and tools. Understand the nuanced differences between calligraphy and "shodo" ("calligraphy as a form of character decoration"), gaining a deeper appreciation for this art form. Calligraphy is a traditional Japanese culture that uses a brush and ink to express characters artistically, and is appreciated for the neatness of the characters, the way the brush is carried, the shade of the ink, and the beauty of the overall arrangement. Learn how to hold the brush and use the tools correctly. Select your favorite Japanese kanji to express during this experience. Each kanji carries a unique meaning. Discover the beauty of kanji by understanding their significance and writing them with a brush.

Practice

Calligraphy embodies a delicate sense of beauty, where subtle variations in lines, dots, and shading enhance its artistic appeal. It cultivates a sense of stillness, requiring a quiet and focused mind when writing. Adhering to basic manners, such as sitting upright with a straight back and holding the brush correctly, is also essential. Master fundamental techniques like "tome," "hane," and "harai" through practice. Understanding the techniques is more effective than aimless repetition. Learn the stroke order of your chosen kanji, observing the instructor's demonstration. Embrace the Japanese aesthetic principle of "beauty of margins," recognizing that conscious use of space enhances the beauty of both the characters and the overall composition. Practice your chosen kanji with mindful awareness of these techniques.

Special touch

As a special touch, the instructor can apply kanji to your foreign name, creating a Japanese-style name written in kanji. Discover the meaning behind the characters used in your name, gaining insight into their significance. Write your chosen kanji on calligraphy paper, applying the techniques you've learned. You'll also write on a traditional Japanese fan, a tool deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and used in various life milestones.

Photo and souvenir

We will capture memorable photos during the experience. As a souvenir, your artwork will be presented on a bag featuring the instructor's original work, along with your name inscribed in Japanese characters on a wooden tag. These gifts serve as a token of appreciation for your participation in this traditional Japanese cultural experience.