The first 'KIZUNA' event of the year was a Japanese calligraphy workshop, held on 30 January in collaboration with the COCOLOIKI project of the Education and Research Unit for Regional Alliances, Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research Education (C-PIER). Instruction was provided by members of the Sumizome Shodo Kai, who teach calligraphy classes at the Kyoto Prefectural International Center, and those of Kyoto University's own calligraphy club.
In the workshop, participants practiced brush-writing their favorite words on hanshi (special calligraphy paper). Some participants had no previous experience with the implements, and initially had difficulty controlling their brush strokes. After diligently honing their skills with guidance from the instructors, however, all of them eventually produced beautiful writing on shikishi (signature boards), which they then took home as souvenirs.
Everyone enjoyed this traditional Japanese New Year's custom, as well as the opportunity to make new friends with other students.
Some of the participants receiving guidance from instructors
Practicing the word "平和"（Peace）
Participants hard at work
A job well done!
