As the days grow longer and the warmer months approach, join our hands‑on workshop to create your own Japanese fan (uchiwa – 扇) adorned with calligraphy, led by London‑based calligrapher Yoko Takenami.

Participants will learn to write seasonal Japanese phrases that celebrate the transition into summer, arranging their characters on a uchiwa fan to take home. The workshop introduces a variety of Japanese calligraphy styles, including kanji and kana, as well as the fundamentals of using traditional tools such as ink and brush. By the end of the session, you’ll have created something both beautiful and personal — a perfect way to welcome the season. This beginner‑friendly workshop requires no prior experience.

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. 

If you have any questions, please call The Japan Society office on 020 3075 1996 or email us at: events@japansociety.org.uk.