Japanese calligraphy nominated for UNESCO listing - NHKニュース

An advisory body to UNESCO has recommended that Japanese calligraphy be registered on the organization's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs says the body announced its recommendation of shodo early Thursday.

Shodo is the art of handwriting using an ink brush, black ink and inkstone that employs traditional brush techniques to write Chinese characters and Japanese syllabaries.

The Japanese government has been pitching for the inclusion of shodo in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list by highlighting how the art form showcases Japan's cultural diversity and depth to the world.

Shodo is likely to be officially inscribed on the UNESCO list during an intergovernmental committee meeting to be held in Xiamen, China, starting November 30.

Culture Minister Seki Yoshihiro issued a statement, calling the recommendation "deeply gratifying."

The statement reads that in the digital age, in which generative AI and other technologies are making strides, the importance of shodo, which nurtures sensitivity and self-expression, is becoming increasingly important.

It says he hopes shodo will be included in the list, as has been recommended by the advisory body.

Japan has 23 items registered in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Traditional sake making was added to the list in 2024.

The government has also nominated kagura, or traditional Shinto ritual dancing, and Japan's hot-spring culture to UNESCO.