Horaisan” – Handwritten Shikishi Calligraphy on Red Karakami Paper

“Horaisan” (蓬莱山) – Original Handwritten Shikishi by Zen Master Taigen Kobayashi

Calligrapher: Zen Master Taigen Kobayashi (小林太玄)
Calligraphy: 蓬莱山 (Horaisan) – The Mountain of Immortality
Paper: Red Karakami (紅唐紙) – Traditional Japanese Decorative Paper
Format: Shikishi (Traditional Japanese Calligraphy Board)
Type: Original Handwritten Calligraphy
Origin: Kyoto, Japan

This elegant shikishi features the original handwritten calligraphy “Horaisan” (蓬莱山) by Zen Master Taigen Kobayashi, beautifully written on rich red Karakami paper.

Meaning of “Horaisan” (蓬莱山)

“Horaisan” refers to Mount Horai, the legendary mountain of immortality and eternal happiness in East Asian tradition.

According to ancient Chinese mythology, Mount Horai (Penglai) is a mystical island mountain in the eastern sea, believed to be home to immortals who live free from aging and worldly suffering.

In Japanese culture, Horaisan symbolizes:

• Longevity and good health

• Happiness and prosperity

• Peace and eternal blessings

It is an especially auspicious expression, often associated with New Year celebrations, weddings, and other joyful occasions.

The deep red Karakami paper enhances the celebratory meaning of the calligraphy, creating a beautiful contrast with the expressive brushwork.

This shikishi is particularly suitable for New Year, Hatsugama (the first tea gathering of the year), and other celebratory tea gatherings.

About Zen Master Taigen Kobayashi (小林太玄)

Taigen Kobayashi is a respected Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest and former head priest of Ōbai-in (黄梅院), a historic subtemple of Daitokuji Temple in Kyoto.

Daitokuji has a long and important connection with the Japanese tea ceremony, particularly through Sen no Rikyu and the Sen family tea schools.

His calligraphy is widely appreciated among Chanoyu practitioners for its expressive brushwork and meaningful Zen and auspicious phrases.

This beautiful handwritten shikishi brings together the spiritual depth of Zen, traditional Japanese craftsmanship, and the auspicious symbolism of Mount Horai.

A meaningful addition to a Japanese tea room or tokonoma (traditional alcove).