The Wakan Rōeishū (和漢朗詠集), a key reference for Japanese calligraphers for nearly a thousand years, is a unique anthology combining the beauty of Japanese waka poetry and Chinese kanbun. This masterpiece celebrates the seasons and the natural world of Asia.
This competition invites participants to rediscover this legacy and create works inspired by this timeless tradition.

Competition Rules
- Submission size:
Only hanshi (半紙: 24 × 33 cm) or tanzaku (短冊: 6 × 36 cm), unmounted and unframed. - Number of submissions:
Unlimited. Participation is free. - Text selection:
Free choice, provided the text is from the Wakan Rōeishū (either waka or kanbun, including partial excerpts). Each submission must indicate the poem number (1–803). - Style:
Open. Participants may combine multiple poems (waka and kanbun) on the same sheet. - Categories:
- Professional: Teachers or individuals primarily devoted to calligraphy.
- Amateur.
- Youth: Under 18 years old.
- Hanko: Works featuring carved seals.
Submissions
- Works can be submitted by:
- Bringing them directly to Chabana Sansô (Mizuo, Kyoto – by appointment).
- Mailing them from any country.
- Letter of introduction:
Each submission must include a short letter (maximum one page, printed if possible) presenting the works and providing brief biographical details. The letter can be written in Japanese, English, or French. - Return policy:
Mailed submissions will not be returned. They must be collected in person within six months of the results announcement. After that, they will be archived. - Eligibility:
Open to anyone, regardless of location, even if unable to visit Japan. - Mailing address:
Chabana Sansô
Ukyo-ku, Saga Mizuo
Kyoto, Japan 616-8465
Key Dates
- Submission deadline: October 1, 2025 (submissions are open now).
- Results announcement: Saturday, November 15, 2025.
- Exhibition of works: November 15–30, 2025, in Mizuo.
Awards
Winners in each category will receive the full harvest of yuzu from a tree in Mizuo, a specialty of the village. Winners must collect their prizes in person.

Context and Purpose
This competition, hosted at Chabana Sansô, a retreat dedicated to Japanese beauty and the art of tea, is held in the serene village of Mizuo, just 30 minutes from Kyoto Station.
Its aim is to bring together calligraphy enthusiasts in celebration of timeless beauty.
The Wakan Rōeishū pays tribute to the seasons, nature, and the dialogue between Japanese and Chinese cultures.
2025 marks the inaugural year of this competition, which will be held annually from now on.
For Calligraphy Enthusiasts
- Inspiration visits:
Throughout 2025, Chabana Sansô will welcome visitors (by appointment) for tea sessions, exchanges, and calligraphy creation. Visits can also be combined with hikes to Atago Shrine. - Group calligraphy sessions:
If you are a teacher or master who wishes to organize workshops or calligraphy sessions based on the Wakan Rōeishū, please contact us.

Database and Collaboration
A bold project accompanies this competition: the creation of a verified database of the Wakan Rōeishū.
We are seeking volunteers for this effort. The work mainly involves verifying the text on your computer and copying the results into a shared spreadsheet. Your help would be greatly appreciated!
Contact
For any questions or registration:
barbery@gmail.com (Japanese/English/French).




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