Polite to Staff
Cultural · Traditional · Arts
書道は初めてなのですが、まず何から始めればいいですか？ — This is my first time doing calligraphy — where should I begin? (Cultural · Traditional · Arts, Polite to Staff, JLPT N4)
You
書道は初めてなのですが、まず何から始めればいいですか？
しょどうははじめてなのですが、まずなにからはじめればいいですか？
This is my first time doing calligraphy — where should I begin?
Romaji: Shodou wa hajimete na no desu ga, mazu nani kara hajimereba ii desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Dewa, mazu fude no mochi kata kara setsumei shimasu ne.
Reply
では、まず筆の持ち方から説明しますね。
では、まずふでのもちかたからせつめいしますね。
Let's start with how to hold the brush, then.
Gesture & etiquette
Stand or sit with a straight posture — shodo requires upright alignment. Bring your hands together in a slight bow as you ask, signaling respect for the art form.
Japanese calligraphy (書道) studios and instructors expect newcomers to ask about basics — it is encouraged, not embarrassing. Mentioning it is your first time (初めて) instantly signals patience is needed and invites a thorough, helpful explanation.