About this Event
Japanese Calligraphy Workshop at Pudding's Cafe – "Hotaru"
Experience a peaceful and creative afternoon inspired by the magic of Japanese early summer.
Hosted by licensed Japanese calligrapher Mare from Japan, this workshop combines traditional Japanese calligraphy (Shodo) and sumi-e ink painting to express one of Japan's most beloved seasonal scenes:
? Fireflies dancing around bamboo under the summer night sky.
In Japan, fireflies ("Hotaru") symbolize fleeting beauty, tranquility, and the arrival of early summer. Through mindful brush movements and flowing ink, you'll create your own artwork that captures this special atmosphere.
Whether you are completely new to calligraphy or already love Japanese culture, this workshop offers a relaxing and memorable experience.
? What You Will Experience
✨ Learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy
✨ Create a seasonal artwork inspired by fireflies and bamboo
✨ Explore traditional sumi-e brush techniques
✨ Experience the calming and mindful process of working with ink
✨ Take home your finished artwork
✨ Enjoy a delicious cake and drink at Pudding's Cafe
? Included
✔ All calligraphy materials
✔ Japanese calligraphy and sumi-e instruction
✔ One complimentary cake
✔ One drink
✔ Your completed artwork to take home
? Event Information
Date: Tuesday, 23 June
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: Pudding's Cafe
Price: £30
Maximum participants: 8 people
Level: Beginners welcome
? About the Theme – "Hotaru"
In Japan, the beginning of summer is a magical season when tiny fireflies illuminate rivers and forests with their soft golden light.
Together with graceful bamboo leaves, they create a scene that has inspired Japanese poetry, paintings, and literature for centuries.
Through brush and ink, we will bring this atmosphere to life and create a piece that captures "The Early Summer of Japan" (日本の夏).
?? About the Instructor
Mare is a licensed Japanese calligrapher from Japan and founder of Wayfarer Shodo Edinburgh.
His workshops combine traditional Japanese art with mindfulness, creativity, and cultural storytelling, creating a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy the beauty of Japanese culture—one brushstroke at a time.
Event venue & nearby stays
Pudding’s, 98 South Clerk Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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