#Japan #Tokyo #Takaumado Cup #Calligraphy Exhibition #Japanese Traditional Arts

The 42nd Takaumado Cup National Calligraphy Exhibition

The Takaumado Cup National Calligraphy Exhibition, a celebration of Japan’s rich tradition in calligraphy, has officially begun accepting entries for its 42nd iteration. This esteemed event, organized annually since 1985, aims to promote the mental and physical well-being of young people while nurturing cultural appreciation among the public.

The exhibition encapsulates the spirit of nurturing growth through art, receiving over 20,000 entries every year, including both brush and pen calligraphy. The highlight of the event is the prestigious Takaumado Award, given to the best work in the brush category.

Eligibility and Awards

All submissions are rigorously judged to ensure fairness and recognition. Among the awards presented are the Prime Minister's Award, the Nippon Budokan Award, and other notable accolades from various governmental and cultural organizations. The competition categories include the brush calligraphy division and the pen calligraphy division, welcoming participants from preschoolers to adults.

Participants are encouraged to submit their works, whether created in schools, dojos, or at home, directly to the Nippon Budokan. The acceptance deadline for submissions is set for June 9, 2023, ensuring that all entries arrive on or before the due date.

Winners from previous years have showcased their outstanding works at the Nippon Budokan on the exhibition day, with the awards ceremony taking place shortly after. This is an exciting opportunity for participants to display their talent in front of a broad audience and receive recognition for their effort.

Entry Details

• - Main Organizer: Nippon Budokan Foundation
• - Supported by: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Chinese Embassy, National Education Council of Japan, among others.
• - Divisions: Brush Calligraphy and Pen Calligraphy
• - Eligibility:

- Division 1: Preschool and elementary school students
- Division 2: Middle school students
- Division 3: High school students
- Division 4: University and specialized students
- Division 5: General public

• - Submission Guidelines:

- Brush Calligraphy Division: Each work for divisions 1-3 costs ¥700, divisions 4-5 cost ¥1,000.
- Pen Calligraphy Division: Each work for divisions 1-3 costs ¥500, and divisions 4-5 cost ¥700.

• - Application Deadline: June 9, 2023, by close of business.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding participation and details about entry, please reach out to the administrative office of the Nippon Budokan Calligraphy Exhibition at 03-3216-5144 (weekdays 10:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00) or by fax at 03-3216-5156. They kindly ask that questions regarding specific phrases for the pen calligraphy division are not submitted.

About Nispon Budokan

Founded in 1962, the Nippon Budokan is a prominent organization dedicated to the promotion and encouragement of traditional Japanese martial arts and the fostering of youth development. Officially recognized as a public interest foundation in 2013, it not only focuses on martial arts but also supports initiatives that promote traditional arts such as calligraphy, thereby contributing to both local culture and international peace. The Nippon Budokan is located in the heart of Chiyoda, Tokyo, providing a historic venue for this significant event.