ZenistSubtle Brush Strokes: A Two-Day Calligraphy Workshop
with Tomoko Ide (Himiko)
Two-day Japanese calligraphy workshop at San Francisco Zen Center's City Center, led by Tomoko Ide (Himiko), whom the listing identifies as a Japanese calligraphy master. Covers materials, ink-making, and character practice; open to all levels with no prior experience required. In-person, $80.
About this retreat
Subtle Brush Strokes is a two-day Japanese calligraphy workshop at San Francisco Zen Center's City Center, October 10–11, 2026, led by Tomoko Ide (Himiko), whom the listing identifies as a Japanese calligraphy master. The listed price is $80, and the format is given only as in-person — the description mentions no lodging or meals.
What the workshop covers
The description names three areas of focus: materials, ink-making, and character practice. Ink-making in this art generally means grinding a solid ink stick with water on an inkstone to working consistency; character practice means writing characters brushstroke by brushstroke, building control through repetition. Beyond those headings, the listing gives no session-by-session plan.
What the listing leaves out
No daily schedule is included, so start times and session structure aren't specified. The description also doesn't mention meditation periods — this is billed as a calligraphy workshop rather than a sitting retreat, and if zazen is part of the weekend, the listing doesn't say so. It likewise doesn't state whether materials are provided or what to bring. Contact the center for those details before registering.
Originally listed on San Francisco Zen Center's website.
Full details from San Francisco Zen Center
Japanese Calligraphy Master Tomoko Ide (Himiko) leads a weekend workshop on Japanese calligraphy practice, covering materials, ink-making, and character practice. Open to all levels with no prior experience required.