• Japanese calligraphy originated in China more than one thousand years ago.set for calligraphy image by Daria Miroshnikova from Fotolia.com
  
  Calligraphy is the art of writing beautifully, and plays a central role in Japanese culture. Traditional Japanese calligraphy, called shodo, originated in China. When Buddhism arrived in Japan from China during the 7th century, Buddhist priests introduced calligraphy to the island. Unlike Western calligraphy, the goal of Japanese calligraphy is not uniformity but the expression of individuality. The five styles of Japanese calligraphy, all of which date back to 4th century China, reflect differences in formality and purpose.
  
  

Tensho

• Tensho is a formal calligraphy hand that is traditionally used to create name seals. In Japan, name seals replace signatures and typically appear as red stamps.
  
  

Kaisho

• Kaisho means "correct writing" and is the precise form of writing used for everyday writing in both China and Japan. Often called block script, kaisho specifies a very precise sequence for drawing the lines of the letters. Kaisho characters, when done correctly, look a lot like those printed using computer fonts or in a newspaper. When first learning calligraphy, students typically begin with the kaisho form, which gives them the chance to practice the stroke sequence while also becoming comfortable with the brush.
  
  

Reisho

• Reisho, also called clerical script, is a simplified version of Japanese characters. Reisho is highly linear and was once used primarily by slaves and people with limited education and, therefore, was not a form that received much respect. Today, the use of reisho continues in newspaper headings and as a form for stone carving.
  
  

Gyousho

• Gyousho is a semi-cursive style, meaning "traveling writing." Writing in gyousho is faster than writing in kaisho, and the lessened formality gives the letters a softer, more rounded look with the individual strokes flowing together. Gyousho is used for note-taking and can be read by most Japanese. In fact, many older Japanese use gyousho for everyday writing. Most Japanese calligraphy is done in gyousho.
  
  

Sousho

• Sousho is the least formal of the styles and is considered a cursive hand. Sousho translates to "grass writing," which according to master calligrapher Eri Takase, refers to the dominance of strong vertical strokes that resemble grass. The purpose of sousho writing is entirely artistic and highly abstract, allowing the calligrapher to achieve full artistic expression. Because of this, the Japanese do not use sousho for everyday writing. In fact, sousho is so abstract that it can generally only be read by those trained in calligraphy. The calligrapher using sousho does not lift her brush from the page while producing the letter.