Calligraphy Performance at Erinji Temple

At Kōshū City’s Kentokuzan Erinji Temple in Yamanashi Prefecture, WANOMORI instructor William Reed delivered a captivating calligraphy performance.

Originally from the United States, William Reed holds a 10th-dan in calligraphy.

His work spans a wide range of disciplines, including applying the wisdom and techniques of traditional Japanese arts—such as Bushido and Zen—to modern life, career design, and English presentation skills.

At the core of his pursuits, however, are calligraphy and aikido.

Reed not only excels in calligraphy but also holds an 8th-dan in aikido. He explains that the body movements and breathing techniques cultivated through aikido are deeply connected to the act of writing calligraphy.

In mid-September, with lingering late summer heat, the grounds of Kentokuzan Erinji Temple welcomed us.As you step inside, you are greeted by a beautifully maintained and serene space.

In this sacred setting, we had the honor of presenting a calligraphy performance.

On this day, Erinji Temple was lively with many tourists and locals visiting.
However, when Reed Sensei closed his eyes, the bustling crowd paused, and as he picked up the brush, the lively atmosphere gave way to stillness.
Only the sound of cicadas, singing as if to lament the passing summer, echoed through the quiet space.

When Reed Sensei took up the large brush, his movements were as precise and powerful as a sword, yet delicate and controlled. His presence was reminiscent of a true samurai.

The word he chose to write this time was:
“喫茶去 (Kissa Ko)”

This Zen phrase, which simply means “Have a cup of tea,” carries a profound message. It transcends personal preferences, emotions, or formalities. Offering a cup of tea without reasoning or conditions is a direct expression of the Zen spirit.

While tea ceremony often carries an image of being associated with women, it was actually considered an essential cultural practice for samurai.
Why was the tea ceremony regarded as a samurai’s art?

At Erinji Temple, in addition to zazen meditation, tea gatherings are also held.
If you have the opportunity, why not participate in a tea gathering and discover the answer for yourself?

For more details, please visit the links below:

EErinji Temple Official Website: https://erinji.jp

Erinji Temple Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/erinji/

Erinji Terakoya (Temple School): https://www.facebook.com/erinjiterakoya/

The washi paper used in this performance is Nishijima Washi, with a 430-year history, crafted in Minobu Town, Yamanashi Prefecture.
The Omurasaki paper, made by Yamaju Seishi Co., Ltd., is primarily intended for Japanese paintings. However, its unique texture, unattainable with machine-made paper, proved highly suitable for calligraphy during this event. This thick paper can even be used for printing photographs.

Yamaju Seishi Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/yamaju.seisi/

Official Omurasaki Page: http://www.omurasaki.jp

A heartfelt thank you to Senior Master Furukawa, the staff of Erinji Temple, and Yamaju Seishi Co., Ltd., for their support and cooperation.