Of the town of Kumano 's 27,000 inhabitants , 1,500 are brush craftsmen . `` They 'd buy calligraphy brushes there and re-sell them on returning to Kumano . '' The best time to visit is September , when the annual Brush Festival takes place . When demand for calligraphy brushes declined , Kumano companies began producing high-end makeup brushes . Hide Caption 2 of 10 Photos:Photos: A guide to Japan's unique culture
Of the town of Kumano 's 27,000 inhabitants , 1,500 are brush craftsmen . The best time to visit is September , when the annual Brush Festival takes place . When demand for calligraphy brushes declined , Kumano companies began producing high-end makeup brushes . Hide Caption 2 of 10 Photos:Photos: A guide to Japan's unique culture