Japanese Zen Tea Calligraphy
Experience the fusion of Japanese calligraphy and tea
Shodō, Japan’s traditional art of calligraphy, involves using a writing brush called a “mōhitsu” to inscribe characters onto paper. Through the form and style of these characters, practitioners convey their thoughts and emotions. Focusing intently on a single sheet of paper and writing without prior sketches is considered a mental discipline, fostering introspection and self-exploration.
In this program, we offer an experience that blends shodō with tea to create unique calligraphic art. The fibers of the tea leaves add expressive nuances to the characters, allowing even beginners to craft remarkable artworks enriched by the texture of the tea.
Participants can enjoy the aroma of tea, the tactile sensation of tea leaves, and the feel of the brush while learning calligraphy techniques such as brush grip, strokes, sweeps, and stops.
We utilize tea leaves that are not suitable for commercialization or consumption, highlighting our commitment to sustainability. Experience tea in a novel and artistic way through this unique fusion.
Key Points of the Experience
- Experience the thrill of being an emerging contemporary artist by creating sophisticated art that fuses tea and calligraphy. This unique experience, available exclusively here, allows you to craft a single kanji character on a mount, transforming it into an artistic masterpiece enriched by tea leaves.
- Under the guidance of a professional calligraphy artist, you’ll learn the fundamentals of shodō. This includes proper brush handling, stroke techniques, and the basics of brush movements such as sweeps and jumps. You’re free to draw your favorite characters in any style you prefer, whether it’s neat, cute, or wild.
- The aroma of tea leaves provides a soothing experience, offering relaxation, stress relief, and deodorizing effects. You can enjoy the subtle scent of tea both during the creation process and in the finished artwork
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LOCATION
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WHEN
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DURATION
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GROUP OF PEOPLE
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| Tokyo | 11:00am–1:00pm or 2:30pm-4:30pm | Approximately 2 hours | Up to 4 participants |
Book Now
About the Experience
Age: 18 and older
Duration: 2 hours
Fee: 142 USD per person
Location: Shimokitazawa, Tokyo
Schedule (Example: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM):
11:00-11:30: Introduction to tea ceremony calligraphy and shodo, practice of pen holding, strokes, and character selection
11:30-12:00: Practice writing characters
12:00 onwards: Practice using tea to write – fair copy
Experience Features
Calligraphy allows your inner self to be expressed through a brush onto paper.
The characters you choose and the strokes you make offer a glimpse into your present state of mind.
The tea leaves add unique expressions to the characters, making the final result a delightful surprise. You’re sure to create a masterpiece beyond your expectations.
Your artwork can be taken home. Retaining the subtle fragrance and antibacterial properties of tea, it makes a wonderful addition to your home or a thoughtful gift for someone special.
AGENDA
Please arrive at the MEETING POINT 10 minutes before your scheduled reservation time.
While you wait, please contemplate the kanji or characters you would like to write.
We will guide you from the meeting point to the venue (a 1-minute walk).
Upon arriving at a hidden bar known only to a select few in Shimokitazawa, please take a seat and begin your creative process.
Your instructor will first explain the steps involved in calligraphy. You will gently trace the paper with the tip of the brush, and then make bold, sweeping strokes. You will develop a sense of the brush as if you were engaging in a dialogue.
Once you become accustomed to using the brush, you will begin writing kanji. You will practice using transparent glue. When you feel comfortable, you will write characters and use tea leaves to make them appear raised.
Repeat this practice until you are ready. Take a deep breath and write your characters on the final piece of paper. Your artwork is complete.
You will be provided with two sheets of final paper. If you would like to write different characters after completing one, you may do so. If you wish to try again, you may return to the practice session.
Language: English, Japanese
Included
- All materials will be provided such as calligraphy ink, brush, and paper.
Not Included
- A bag for carrying your artwork home
- Food and beverages
- Transportation costs
- Accommodation
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Cancellation Fee
For cancellations made within 5 days of the scheduled date: A 100% cancellation fee will be charged.
For cancellations made more than 5 days prior to the scheduled date: No cancellation fee will be charged.
Example: For a reservation on February 15th, no cancellation fee will be charged if you cancel before the scheduled time on February 9th (Japan Standard Time).
Late Arrival
If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your reservation without prior notice, it will be considered a no-show.
Cancellation and Refund
In the event that the experience is canceled due to circumstances beyond our control:
In case of inclement weather, natural disasters, or other emergencies that make it difficult for participants to attend (notification will be made at least 24 hours prior to the event start time): In the above cases, we will either reschedule the experience or provide a full refund.
MEETING POINT & HOW TO ACCESS
Meeting Point : Please meet in front of the Seven-Eleven Shimokitazawa Station Front Store
Mont Blanc Building, 2-26-6 Kitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo
How to Access
Keio Inokashira Line
Shimokitazawa Station :West Exit, 1-minute walk.
Odakyu Odawara Line
Shimokitazawa Station : West Exit, 1-minute walk.
Exit the west gate (north side) of Shimokitazawa Station on the Inokashira Line. Turn right onto the main street (Kamakura-dori) directly in front of the station. Walk for about 1 minute and the building will be on your left on the first floor of the second building.
If you are coming from the Odakyu Line, please transfer to the Inokashira Line platform and exit from the west gate (north side). Please be careful when walking as the sidewalk is narrow.
