The Japan Society is delighted to present a beginner’s Shakyo workshop led by London-based calligrapher Yoko Takenami.

Shakyo, literally meaning 'copying sutra', refers to the Buddhist practice of transcribing sacred texts. Rooted in the belief that tracing these texts purifies the soul, it is thought to bring inner peace and enlightenment. In contemporary Japan, this Buddhist tradition is embraced as a form of personal reflection and stress relief, accessible to anyone, regardless of religious faith.

The arrival of Buddhism in the 6th century, along with sutras written in Chinese characters, was pivotal for Japanese culture and the development of the Japanese writing system. We will begin by writing Chinese characters that represent Buddhist wisdom, using basic calligraphy techniques with real brushes before starting Shakyo. If you do not finish during the workshop, you may complete it at home. No prior experience is necessary, and the workshop is open to everyone. Participants will be given a fude-pen (a cartridge-based brush pen) to copy the sutra.

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.

Booking Details
Booking essential – Priority booking for members of The Japan Society and their guests
Members of The Japan Society and their family and friends: £20
Non-members: £25
All tools, equipment and materials will be provided on the day

Bookings open for non-members from Monday 7 April 2025 (More details on how to become a member here)