Express Your Feelings Through Calligraphy and Connect with Your Inner Self in a Traditional Kyoto Townhouse

Experience the Heart-Stirring Power of Shin-Rei’s Calligraphy

Shin-Rei is a calligrapher and performer who began practicing calligraphy at age 7. She runs her own calligraphy school and conducts performances and workshops worldwide, including at the Louvre in France, in the Czech Republic, New York, Thailand, and Malaysia. Her dynamic style is highly praised, and her work has appeared in popular anime titles and artist logos.

Shin-Rei, an award-winning calligrapher active across various fields

In high school, Shin-Rei won first prize in a calligraphy competition by adding her own expression to the characters she had previously been writing in a traditional style. The many letters she received from people moved by her work inspired her to pursue a career in calligraphy.

Shin-Rei’s work, where the characters express both delicacy and strength

Shin-Rei’s calligraphy brings emotional depth to traditional forms, making each character rich with expression. Even without a shared language, the kindness, dynamism, and power in her work can touch anyone who sees it. With this experience, you can experience Shin-Rei’s sensitivity and write calligraphy that conveys your own feelings.

Enjoy Calligraphy in the Charming Setting of a Historic Kyoto Townhouse

This experience takes place at Gensouan in Shijo Karasuma, Kyoto’s central area. This historic Kyoto townhouse, owned by a kimono wholesaler, preserves the traditional merchant's house design—combining business and residence. The tatami mats, shoji screens, and fittings have been meticulously maintained and preserved by craftsmen for over 130 years.

A Kyoto townhouse with over 130 years of history

As a kimono wholesaler specializing in tsumugi silk, Gensouan’s interior is adorned with Yuki-tsumugi silk throughout. From the room near the entrance, once used to welcome guests, the spaces become increasingly private as you move further inside, with a courtyard beyond the Japanese-style room, and a tea room and storehouse further back. Enjoy a refined calligraphy experience while appreciating this space that reflects Kyoto's traditional lifestyle.

Enjoy the experience in a Japanese-style room with a view of the courtyard or on the second floor

Learn the Meaning of the Kanji and Choose the Characters That Resonate With You

Calligraphy starts with preparing the ink. While liquid ink is available, grinding solid ink on an inkstone helps calm your mind and focus. The soothing scent of the ink adds to the calming effect, sharpening your sensibilities as you prepare to write.

The highlight of this experience is using real calligraphy tools

Once the ink is ready, select a character from over 20 options like "love," "beauty," or "dragon" that resonates with your current feelings. The instructor will explain the meaning and pronunciation of each kanji, helping you choose one that reflects your heart.

Explaining each kanji’s pronunciation and meaning

After selecting a kanji, share with Shin-Rei the impression you get and the emotions you want to express. For example, if you choose "love," your feelings might vary from gentle to passionate. Shin-Rei will understand your emotions through conversation and create an example that reflects them. Observe how the thickness, strength, and brush strokes influence the character’s impression.

Shin-Rei brings your vision to life with her hands

Adjust Your Posture and Let Your Emotions Flow Into Each Stroke

Next, choose a brush. Different brushes can change the look of your characters based on their material and size. Shin-Rei suggests using a brush with a long tip for delicate characters and a stiffer brush for bold ones. Choose the one you like, and feel free to ask for advice based on the characters you want to write.

Brush materials include weasel, sheep, mixed, and nylon

Before writing kanji, you'll first learn the basics of calligraphy. Shin-Rei will teach you how to hold the brush, the proper angle, and practice basic strokes. "Keep the brush upright and use light pressure," she advises. Good posture is crucial, so you may feel some discomfort if you're not used to sitting up straight. It's all part of the authentic calligraphy experience, so give it a try.

Basic brush strokes are clearly explained in an easy-to-understand way

Next, write the kanji you've chosen on washi paper, using a model for reference. Practice several times, focusing on expressing your emotions rather than just copying the model. Shin-Rei will review your work and offer tips on how to improve your technique and expression. Finally, complete your piece on a paperboard.

Write with emotion while following the model

More Than Writing, It’s Communicating With Your Heart Through Calligraphy

The calligraphy you write with heartfelt emotion will become something you cherish even more. The work you create during this experience can be carefully taken home in a folding tatou-shi paper (protective wrapping). When unfolded, this tatou paper transforms into a scroll that can be displayed on your wall. It will be a memorable keepsake, both in heart and form.

Display it at home to remember the emotions long after your trip

"Calligraphy expresses your feelings, and those who see it will feel your emotion," says Shin-Rei. The process of focusing on your emotions while writing can refresh one’s mind. Experience the true charm of calligraphy in a Kyoto townhouse that preserves the traditions of Japan.