Kumano is known as the 'Brush Capital' of Japan, a tradition that began in the Edo period when villagers traveled to Nara to learn brush-making and brought the craft home.
The museum houses the 'World's Largest Fude,' an enormous calligraphy brush that holds a Guinness World Record status.
The onsite collection includes brushes made from unique animal hairs, including horse, deer, goat, and raccoon dog hair, each selected for varying levels of stiffness.
The architecture of the building is specifically designed to provide natural lighting ideal for viewing delicate ink-based artwork.
The facility serves as a research center for the scientific analysis of the brush-making process, including the study of tuft elasticity and handle ergonomics.
Fude-no-sato Kobo is a museum located in Kumano, a town responsible for producing approximately 80% of Japan’s handmade calligraphy brushes. The facility serves as a cultural hub dedicated to the history, craft, and art of brush making. Visitors can view a massive collection of brushes, including the 'World's Largest Brush,' which is over 3.7 meters long. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions featuring calligraphy, painting, and craft-related artworks. It includes a workshop area where guests can observe master artisans demonstrating traditional techniques. The site functions as a center for preserving the centuries-old 'Kumano-fude' tradition designated as a Japanese Traditional Craft.
Beside the 'World's Largest Brush' display located in the main atrium.
Participate in the hands-on calligraphy or brush-making workshops offered on-site to understand the complexity of the craft.
Browse the museum shop, which stocks high-quality Kumano-fude brushes used by professional calligraphers and makeup artists worldwide.
Check the official website for current special exhibition themes before visiting, as these change throughout the year.
Do not assume all brushes in the shop are for calligraphy; many are specialized professional makeup brushes for which Kumano is equally famous.
Closed on Mondays, or the following Tuesday if a national holiday falls on a Monday.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the exhibition halls; photography is generally permitted but prohibited for specific copyrighted temporary exhibits.
