(©JAPAN Forward by Shaun Fernando | Inside photo ©Sankei by Koki Uemura)
このページを 日本語 で読む
Each year, JAPAN Forward unveils its New Year Kanji, a tradition that shares a meaningful character with the world. The kanji is chosen by popular calligrapher Shoko Kanazawa, who has Down syndrome, together with her mother, Yasuko. Every kanji is selected with heartfelt wishes for the coming year.
This year's choice is 笑, which means "smile" or "laugh." Shoko revealed the character by brushing it boldly onto a massive sheet of paper. When the work was complete, she stood before the powerful calligraphy, and declared with a beaming smile, "Everyone, laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh ... Please laugh with all your heart."
For the occasion, Shoko wore a black kimono passed down from her mother. Before picking up the large brush, she offered a short prayer. Then, in a single, powerful motion, she wrote the character "Smile" in ink on white washi paper. The kanji seems to leap off the page, brimming with vitality — much like Shoko's own bright, sparkling smile.
After completing the piece, Shoko said, "I wrote it with all my heart because I want everyone to feel uplifted. I want to share my Shoko power with you. Please come visit my café, too."
Shoko's Café
Shoko currently devotes much of her energy to a café where she personally welcomes and serves customers: Atelier Shoko Kissa. Located on Lilac Street in the Kugahara shopping district of Ota Ward, Tokyo, the café is easily recognized by a large sign bearing the calligraphy "Living Side by Side," written by Shoko herself. The first floor houses the café, while the second floor serves as a gallery showcasing her artwork.
On days without special events, Shoko spends most of her time at the café, working and engaging warmly with visitors.
Shoko's Kanji of the New Year initiative began nine years ago with the character "Light" (光) and has since featured "Prayer" (祈), "Harmony" (和), "Victory" (勝), "Fly" (飛), "Love" (愛), "Soar" (翔), and "Radiance" (輝).
This year's kanji reflects the Japanese saying, "Good fortune comes to those who smile." May smiles endure in both joyful and challenging times, bringing happiness and good fortune throughout the year.
RELATED:
- Shoko Kanazawa Dedicates Shine '輝' as This New Year's Message of Hope
- 'Soar' Into the Future: Shoko Kanazawa Reveals New Year Kanji for 2024
- 'Love' is the 2023 New Year Kanji: Shoko Kanazawa Declares From Tokyo Tower
- The Shoko Kanazawa Story: Moving Documentary of a Remarkable Calligrapher
Author: JAPAN Forward
このページを 日本語 で読む
