Japanese traditional arts involve many things. A couple of the most popular and well known are calligraphy(called shoudo) ,origami and martial arts. Japanese school children begin learning how to do these activities when they are very young. A lot of adults enjoy these arts as hobbies, too!
Calligraphy
Japanese calligraphy is an ancient art. It has grown over time from a noble hobby to something everyone can do. The above tools are all needed to perform calligraphy.
Origami
Origami is probably one of those things you didn't know came from Japan. Origami is the art of paper folding and many different shapes can be made from just one piece of paper.
The most recognizable origami is the crane. This shape has special meaning to the Japanese. There's a legend that says if you fold 1000 cranes, your wish will come true!
Martial Arts
Japan has several forms of martial arts. Many children participate in karate, aikido, kendo and even sumo!
Japan has several forms of martial arts. Many children participate in karate, aikido, kendo and even sumo!