What Is Fude Kuyo? — A Ritual of Gratitude for Worn-out Brushes

In the world of Japanese calligraphy, a brush (fude) is far more than just a tool. Each brush absorbs the spirit of the characters it helps create, along with the breath and rhythm of the calligrapher.

For this reason, there is a longstanding Japanese tradition of not simply discarding used brushes, but of offering them in solemn ritual—this is fude kuyo, the brush memorial service.

This article explores the meaning, history, religious background, and modern practices of fude kuyo, a beautiful expression of respect toward the tools that have served us.

What Is Fude Kuyo? A Japanese Tradition of Honoring Tools with Life

Fude kuyo is a ritual in which worn-out brushes are offered to deities or spirits in gratitude and reverence. Rather than mere disposal, it is an act of sending off the brush’s spirit. It reflects a culture of acknowledging the brush’s role in writing, learning, and spiritual practice with heartfelt appreciation.

Brush Memorial Monuments (Fude-zuka) and Ritual Sites

These rituals often take place at locations with fude-zuka—stone monuments built to enshrine the spirits of brushes. Found throughout Japan, these sites host memorial services where used brushes are respectfully offered, accompanied by chanting sutras or Shinto prayers.

One notable example is the annual Fude Matsuri (Brush Festival) in Kumano Town, Hiroshima Prefecture, famed as the home of Kumano brushes:

• Worn-out brushes from all over Japan are gathered and memorialized at the fude-zuka in Sakakiyama Shrine.
• The festival features performances such as brush dances, large-scale calligraphy demonstrations, and brush-making exhibits to celebrate brush culture.

Why Memorialize Brushes? — Writing as a Living Act

At the heart of fude kuyo lies a deep respect for the brush as something made from living materials:

• Calligraphy brushes are made from the hairs of animals such as rabbits, raccoons, or goats.
• With each stroke, these hairs absorb ink and gradually wear down.
• Eventually, the brush reaches the end of its life.

The worn bristles are a testament to a fulfilled existence. Fude kuyo honors this quiet life of service.

How Fude Kuyo Is Practiced

While the specifics may vary by region and shrine or temple, the typical process includes:

1. Cleaning and straightening the bristles of the used brush.
2. Wrapping the brush in a special cloth or pouch and bringing it to the offering site.
3. Priests or monks perform chanting (Shinto norito or Buddhist sutras).
4. Brushes are burned (kaso, cremation) or buried (dosou, interment).
5. Participants press their hands together in prayer, offering thanks to the brush.

In earlier times, burying brushes was more common, as it was believed that letting the ink-scented bristles rest in the earth was a meaningful way to return them to nature.

The Spiritual Legacy of Kukai (Kobo Daishi) and Fude Kuyo

The origins of fude kuyo are partly traced to Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi), the revered monk and calligrapher who left behind many masterful works. He regarded writing as a sacred act—transcribing the words of the Buddha.

At Mount Koya, where his teachings continue to thrive, an annual Fude Kuyo Festival is held every November.

This reflects Kukai’s philosophy of treating tools with spirit and mindfulness—a principle that serves as the spiritual backbone of fude kuyo today.

The Relevance of Fude Kuyo in Modern Times

In today’s society, many tools are used once and thrown away without a second thought. Fude kuyo stands as a quiet protest against this disposable mindset.

• It nurtures an attitude of cherishing what we use.
• It teaches us to part from tools with intention and grace.
• It reconnects us with the roots of calligraphy and traditional craftsmanship.

Children participating in fude kuyo after using their brushes in calligraphy class gain not just cultural awareness but also a valuable emotional experience.

Conclusion: A Brush Is Not to Be “Thrown Away,” but to Be “Sent Off”

Fude kuyo is more than a ritual—it is a heartfelt farewell to a brush that has faithfully served its purpose.

By honoring the brush that has captured our thoughts and shaped our words, we participate in a tradition that reflects the Japanese belief that even objects possess a spirit.

When the time comes to retire your own brush, consider offering it your gratitude. In doing so, you engage with the deep and beautiful cultural current that flows quietly behind every act of writing in Japan.