Higanbana: Japanese Calligraphy, Sumi-e & Crystal Flower Workshop

Join us for a special collaboration between Wayfarer Shodo and Hanami Garden, exploring one of Japan’s most fascinating seasonal flowers: Higanbana (彼岸花), the Red Spider Lily.

In this unique workshop, you’ll experience three different art forms inspired by the same flower — Japanese calligraphy, sumi-e (Japanese ink painting), and handcrafted crystal flower art. You’ll create both 2D and 3D elements, giving you the chance to write, paint and craft all in one creative experience.

With its vivid red petals and unusual shape, Higanbana (彼岸花), or the Red Spider Lily, is one of Japan’s most fascinating and mysterious flowers. Because the flower is poisonous, it has traditionally been treated with care and has also been associated with practical uses around fields and rural areas. Today, Higanbana remains a distinctive symbol of late summer and early autumn, appearing throughout Japanese poetry, art, kimono patterns and traditional designs.

During the workshop, you’ll discover more about the cultural meaning and artistic significance of Higanbana while creating your own artwork inspired by this beautiful flower.

1. Japanese Calligraphy & Sumi-e

Using traditional Japanese brushes and ink, Mare from Wayfarer Shodo will guide you through Japanese calligraphy and sumi-e techniques to create your own Higanbana-inspired artwork.

2. Your Own Crystal Higanbana

You’ll then create a red spider lily crystal flower keychain to take home as a unique handmade souvenir. Your crystal flower will be made using techniques from Hanami Garden, created by a Japanese artist specialising in handcrafted crystal flowers.

This means you’ll leave with something you have written, painted and crafted yourself — bringing together Japanese calligraphy, ink painting and three-dimensional crystal flower art in one piece of creative experience.

Enjoy a complimentary drink during the workshop, and after the workshop, all participants will receive an exclusive 20% discount on the entire Sushiya menu.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have experience with calligraphy, this workshop is designed to be relaxing, creative and enjoyable for everyone.

Come and discover Higanbana through three different art forms — and create something beautiful to take home with you. 🌺

Date: Saturday, October 24
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Location: Sushiya, 93 Dalry Rd, Edinburgh EH11 2AB

Duration: 120-minute workshop + optional dinner at the venue

Instructors:

• Mare / Wayfarer Shodo Edinburgh (Licensed calligrapher from Japan)
• Eva / Hanami Garden (Japanese crystal flower artist)

• Ice breaking, introduction to the theme and order a free drink (10 mins)
• Grinding ink to calm the mind and prepare for calligraphy practice (5 mins)
• Introduction to brush handling & basic writing techniques (10 mins)
• Practice session (30 mins)
• Write and draw red spider lily on official calligraphy paper (30 mins)
• Make your own red spider lily crystal flower key chain (20 mins)
• Take photos, post social media and write a review (15 mins)

• Basic Japanese calligraphy brush techniques
• How to prepare traditional Japanese ink
• The cultural meaning of Higandana in Japan
• The Japanese style crystal flower that can last for a long time
• Creating your own seasonal Japanese artwork

• All calligraphy materials
• Official Japanese calligraphy paper
• Crystal flowers & key chain parts
• Guidance throughout the workshop
• Your completed artwork to take home
• Your crystal flower key chain as a souvenir
• A free drink included in your ticket
• 20% OFF all menu items

• All ages
• Beginners welcome
• Suitable for anyone interested in Japanese culture, art, mindfulness, or creative experiences

• Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the workshop starts.
• Comfortable clothing is recommended as ink may stain.

• "Excellent — the workshop was a highly worthwhile experience. I'm definitely going to come to more."
• "Thank you for such an enjoyable and inspiring workshop. I left feeling motivated to continue developing my calligraphy skills."
• "As a first timer, I felt extremely welcomed and left feeling happy with myself."

Refund requests are accepted up to 3 days before the event.

Unfortunately, refunds cannot be issued within 3 days of the event due to venue bookings, preparation of workshop materials, and catering arrangements.

If the event is cancelled by the organiser, attendees will receive a full refund in accordance with Eventbrite's organiser policy.

Event venue & nearby stays

93 Dalry Rd, 93 Dalry Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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