Japanese letters and words -- or kanji -- are made from lines that create individual symbols. The writing is intricate, artistic and quite different to the English alphabet. However, this makes Japanese really decorative and attractive to look at. Painting words such as "love" or "happiness" in Japanese on blank walls is a great way to spruce up dull space. You can learn to paint Japanese writing, but if you are unfamiliar with the shapes, you will need to practice.
Print off the Japanese symbols you want to write. Choose positive and emotive words, such as soul, friend or life. These are associated with the natural life force or Feng Shui, which is part of the Japanese tradition.
Copy the symbols onto paper first so you can practice how to construct the symbol, and proportion the lines correctly. Draw dominant lines first and then add smaller flecks to complete the symbol. For example, if you're writing the word "life," then draw the central, vertical line first, and then add the angular lines at the top. Do this before filling in the other details.
Prepare to write in Japanese with paint. Get the material you are painting ready -- a white canvas or blank wall shows off the text the best.
Sketch the Japanese writing with pencil onto the surface. This acts as a guideline for painting the letters without error. Remember how you practiced the letters on paper first, and then repeat this method onto the canvas.
Dip the thin brush into black paint, and begin following the pencil lines. Use light brush strokes to build up the lines of each Japanese character.
Add dimensions to each letter by making each brush stroke taper. Achieve this by lifting the brush up from the paper, just before you finish each line. Use a sweeping movement to do this, and you will create a Japanese-style design.
Continute to complete each symbol. Paint the lines in the same order as you sketched them onto the paper.
