Written by Audreay, 12 March 2025
A Glide Japan intern from the 2024 batch and now a staff member, Audreay’s first-ever workshop experience during her internship was the calligraphy class at Space Beppu. She enjoyed it so much that she even bought her own calligraphy set to continue practising at home. For her, calligraphy is not just an art but also a therapeutic escape from a busy life.
Reserve your slot now!
▶︎ CLICK HERE ◀︎
Discovering the Art of Calligraphy in Beppu
My first-ever Japanese calligraphy class was with Haruka-san, the calligrapher at Space Beppu, in 2024. It was during this class that I learned that shodō (書道) is more than just writing—it’s a way to express yourself, focus the mind, and appreciate the elegance of each stroke. Coming from a background of reading kanji characters, this experience opened up a whole new perspective for me on the meaning of calligraphy. Whether you're familiar with kanji or picking up a brush for the first time, this class provides a welcoming space to explore the essence of Japanese calligraphy.
What to Expect in the Class
This class is beginner-friendly and easy to follow, with step-by-step guidance from the instructors. By following their instructions, you’ll be able to:
🔸 Learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy and its cultural significance
🔸 Practise essential brush techniques and stroke order
🔸 Try writing simple kanji and hiragana characters, such as onsen (温泉), hells (地獄), and Beppu (別府)
🔸 Create your own calligraphy piece to take home!
A Relaxing and Meaningful Experience
Unlike typing on a screen, writing with a brush and ink encourages patience and concentration. The slow, deliberate movements allow for a moment of mindfulness, making it a meditative and immersive experience—perfect for those looking to unwind, try something new, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Take Home a Lasting Memory
At the end of the class, participants will leave with a personal calligraphy creation—whether it’s their name, a favourite word, or a meaningful kanji character. It’s a wonderful way to bring a piece of Japanese tradition home.
Join a Calligraphy Class at Space Beppu
If you're looking for a hands-on cultural experience in Beppu, the calligraphy classes at Space Beppu are my top recommendation. No prior experience is needed—you don’t have to learn kanji or understand Japanese. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to try!
Reserve your slot now!
▶︎ CLICK HERE ◀︎
