New Year’s Calligraphy Workshop: Celebrating the Year of the Snake

To welcome the Year of the Snake in 2025, The Japan Society presents a kakizome workshop led by esteemed calligrapher Yoko Takenami.

Kakizome, or "first writing," is a cherished New Year tradition in Japan. Using brush and ink, participants write uplifting and auspicious kanji words or phrases on large sheets of calligraphy paper. Across Japan, kakizome gatherings are popular, with the most renowned event being the annual competition at the Budokan in Tokyo.

Open to complete beginners, this workshop will introduce you to the history of Japanese characters, explore various calligraphy styles, and teach essential brush techniques. By the end of the session, you’ll create your own meaningful calligraphy piece—a positive word symbolising your aspirations for 2025. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to experience a quintessential Japanese art form with guidance from a skilled professional.
Yoko Takenami started her calligraphy studies at the age of seven. Educated in Japan and in Ohio, US, she qualified as a master of calligraphy in 1990. Yoko now lives in London and teaches calligraphy at various institutions such as British Library while also working as an interpreter. She regularly returns to Japan for inspiration for her calligraphy and tuition from her Teshinkai Master. Yoko is the author of The Simple Art of Japanese Calligraphy.