takumi– Author –
Hello, I'm Takumi, and I run a kanji art studio in Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture.
When I was a child, kanji was just another school subject, but I eventually came to see it as a mirror reflecting Japanese culture and sensibilities. This passion led me to start creating art, but I realized a single piece cannot convey the many meanings and readings a kanji holds. I became worried that people overseas might learn a kanji incorrectly through my art.
That’s why I started this blog—to properly share the deep stories and cultural backgrounds behind the characters. Here, I’ll delve into the charm of kanji that art alone can’t express, sharing information that helps you not just “learn” their spirit, but “feel” it.
Let's explore the world of kanji together. If there's a kanji you find beautiful, please share it in the comments.
-
What is Kokoro (心)? The Deep Meaning of the Japanese Word for “Heart” and “Mind”
When you see the Japanese kanji 心 (kokoro), you might think of the words "heart" or "mind." While that’s a good start, the true meaning of kokoro is far more profound and expansive, offering a deep insight into the heart of Japanese cul... -
What is Yume (夢)? Meaning of the Japanese Kanji for Dream
When people see the kanji 夢 (yume), they usually think of the dreams we see while asleep. However, the story behind this character goes far deeper. In Japanese culture, yume does not only mean visions in sleep, but also represents hope,... -
What is “Wabi” (侘)? The Meaning of Wabi-Sabi and Japanese Aesthetics
It's not just about loneliness. When people see the kanji character “侘 (Wabi)”, they may think it simply means “loneliness” or “poverty.” But the story of Wabi goes much deeper. Its essence is not about lacking or suffering, but about f... -
愛 (Ai) Kanji Meaning — The Japanese Symbol of Love Explained
It's not just about romance. When people see the kanji character “愛 (Ai)”, they often think it simply means “love,” perhaps in a romantic sense. But the story of Ai goes much deeper. Its origins lie in the image of the human heart, and ... -
The Meaning of ‘Wa’: More Than Just Peace
It's not just about peace. When people see the kanji character “和 (Wa)”, they often think it simply means “peace.” But the story of Wa goes much deeper. Its origins stretch back to ancient gatherings where music and people came together... -
From Shimanto with Heart: The Story Behind My Kanji Journey
Introduction Hello, and thank you for visiting my blog. My name is takumi. I was born and raised in Japan, and today I live in Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture—a beautiful rural town famous for its crystal-clear river and peaceful lifesty...