Japanese calligraphy class 2026

Today, we had our last Japanese Culture experience prepared for our second year students - practical lesson in Japanese calligraphy called shodō.

書道　（しょどう、shodō）ー Japanese calligraphy

In Japanese elementary schools, calligraphy classes are a common part of the curriculum. Today, we got to experience what it’s like to be a Japanese elementary school student. This year our second year students got to try out their calligraphy skills learned during these years of Japanese Language lessons. Everyone wrote their favorite kanji. The most popular one are 父母 (ふぼ、fubo) and 両親 (りょうしん、ryoushin), both meaning "Parents", and 家族 (かぞく、kazoku), meaning "Family".

Every student practiced writing many kanji. Since this activity was not only valuable but also enjoyable, each student created two sheets—one for the school and one to take home as a memory.

Now, we have an entire wall decorated with our students’ favorite kanji. It feels especially meaningful as this is their final week as CLAY students, with the Graduation Ceremony taking place this Friday.