American Art Students Experience Japanese Calligraphy at GINSHO SHOIN - Calligraphy Experience in Osaka – GINSHO SHOIN
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A Special Day with 18 Art Students -GINSHO SHOIN Calligraphy in Osaka
Recently, we welcomed a group of 18 American art university students to GINSHO SHOIN for a special calligraphy experience.
It was the first time we had hosted such a large group at once!The students were divided into two teams — one enjoying Japanese calligraphy while the other explored Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine — and then switched places for a full afternoon of Japanese culture.
Learning the Origins of Kanji
This time, we chose three kanji characters connected to art and creativity:
創 (Creation)
美 (Beauty)
舞 (Dance / Movement)
We also prepared original materials explaining the origins and evolution of these characters.
After learning about the history and meanings behind the kanji, the students asked many thoughtful and interesting questions, which made us very happy as well.
Then… let’s try!
Personalities Appearing Through Brush Strokes
As expected from art students, everyone learned incredibly quickly.After only a few practice sheets, their brushwork improved dramatically.
What fascinated me the most was how each person’s personality naturally appeared in their writing.
Elegant.Energetic.Bold.Precise.Detailed.Playful.Creative.Unique.
Each final “masterpiece” reflected exactly the same feeling and atmosphere as the conversations we had with each student.
Meanwhile, our 80-year-old teacher excitedly guided everyone with her very “full-energy” Japanese calligraphy teaching:
“One, two… stop!”“More energy!”“Good, good!”
The room was full of concentration, laughter, and excitement.
The Spirit of “Do” and the Breath of “Mu”
The professors accompanying the group shared a beautiful reflection with us.
He explained that he hoped the students could experience the “breath of Mu” — the quiet state of mind that appears during deep concentration.
He also spoke about the Japanese concept of “Do” (道).
In Japan, there are many traditional arts ending with “Do,” such as:
Shodo (calligraphy)
Kado (flower arrangement)
Chado (tea ceremony)
He explained that “Do” is not simply about technique, but about deepening oneself through discipline, self-reflection, and practice.
He felt that calligraphy especially allows people to focus entirely on a world of black and white, breath, and silence.
I was deeply moved by how sincerely he tried to understand Japanese culture.
Concentration… and Lots of Laughing
…That said, the students themselves were wonderfully lively 😊
Concentrate!Hahaha!Concentrate!Yaaay!
The room moved constantly between deep focus and joyful excitement.
For GINSHO-my mother, myself, my friend who helped us, and my younger sister, it became a truly meaningful and memorable day.
Thank you very much for visiting GINSHO SHOIN
Curious to Try? Calligraphy in Osaka
You can find more information about lessons, location, pricing, and reservations on our FAQ page.
About the Experience at GINSHO SHOIN, Calligraphy in Osaka
Nestled in a peaceful traditional house in Sumiyoshi, Osaka, our calligraphy sessions are guided by Master GINSHO, who has over 60 years of experience.
🕰️ Session Time: 90 minutes
🎌 Language: English and Japanese-friendly
🧁 Includes: Japanese tea and seasonal Japanese sweets
💴 Fee: Adults ¥5,000 / Children under 15 ¥3,500 (all materials included)
10% of your fee goes to support disaster relief efforts in Japan
💬 What Past Guests Say (see reviews)
“A beautiful, calming experience. The traditional house and garden were stunning, and the teacher was so kind and encouraging.” — Visitor from the UK
“I loved being able to choose my own kanji and express something meaningful to me. The teacher made me feel completely at ease.” — Visitor from the US
It’s a relaxed, welcoming space where beginners and non-Japanese speakers are warmly welcomed.
Visit Us Today! Calligraphy in Osaka
We will do our best to accommodate your request!
We are closed on Mondays and Wednesdays due to regular calligraphy classes.
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