- Around 900 children in Nara Prefecture participated in a New Year calligraphy event.
- Students created artwork based on themes reflecting the new year and the region's history.
- Winning calligraphy pieces will be showcased at Kashihara Shrine starting January 13th.

A: Hey! Did you see anything about the New Year celebrations?

B: No, what’s up?

A: There was a calligraphy event in Nara! So cute!

B: Really? Calligraphy? Who was there?

A: Around 900 kids! Elementary and junior high school students.

B: Wow! What were they doing?

A: They were making their first calligraphy works of the year. It’s an annual event.

B: That’s lovely! What did they write?

A: They had themes for the New Year! Things like visiting shrines and temples, and about Nara's ancient name, Yamato.

B: Sounds meaningful! Did they all make great work?

A: Apparently, they had to pick their *best* work to submit. Some kids were asking their parents for help choosing!

B: Haha, I bet! Any exciting stories from the kids?

A: One girl said hers was better than she thought! She wants to go to a good high school.

B: That’s ambitious! And the little elementary school girl wrote “first sunrise”! She felt she did a good job!

B: Will we be able to see their work?

A: Totally! They’re going to display the winning pieces at Kashihara Shrine from the 13th to the 18th! Let’s check it out!