The Art of Calligraphy was introduced in Japan from China thanks to the Buddhism before the end of the VI century BC. The writing of the Kanji (the ideograms originated by the ancient pictograms) is based on three main styles: Kaisho (script style), Gyōsho (semi-cursive or fluid style) and Sōsho (cursive or "herb" style). Kana (Katakana and Hiragana) were added over the VIII Century. The Hiragana, in particular, developed thanks to noblewomen, whom the use of the official writing was forbidden. It reached levels of extraordinary beauty, so it was then recognized and incorporated in the actual system. The Way of Calligraphy has many connections with Budo, especially with the Art of the Sword.

For deeper studies: Ten-Jin-Chi, by P. Krieger