Kyoto Authentic Japanese Calligraphy in a Traditional Studio

5.0 (190 reviews) Kyoto, Japan
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 14 travelers

Overview

Delve into the elegant world of Japanese calligraphy at a serene studio in Kyoto. Under the guidance of a friendly local instructor, participants will explore the rich history of shodō and master the techniques of brushwork and ink preparation. In a tranquil tatami room, choose meaningful kanji characters to create a personalized piece of art. This workshop welcomes beginners and offers a unique cultural experience, complete with the option to wear traditional kimono attire for unforgettable photos (premium sessions only). Take home your finished artwork as a cherished souvenir from your Kyoto adventure.

Options

Quick Session - 100% Private

Duration: 45 minutes
Details: No Kimono or personalized kanji name selection. Entire machiya studio reserved for the group in the heart of Gion.

Premium Session - 100% Private

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Details: 90-minute extensive session with kimono and personalized kanji name selection. Entire machiya studio reserved for the group.

Quick Session

Duration: 45 minutes
Details: No Kimono or personalized kanji name selection. In a machiya studio shared with other group in the heart of Gion.

Premium Session

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Details: 90-minute extensive session with kimono and personalized kanji name selection. In a machiya studio shared with other guests.

What's included

  • Kimono Rental (Premium only)

What to expect

Meet your friendly local instructor at our traditional Kyoto studio and begin by learning about shodō, the Japanese art of calligraphy. You’ll discover the meaning and cultural background of Japanese calligraphy before getting hands-on with the traditional tools.

Learn how to hold and control the brush, prepare your ink, and practice the basic brush strokes used to create Japanese characters. Your instructor will demonstrate each technique and provide step-by-step guidance, making the experience easy and enjoyable even if you have never tried calligraphy before.

Once you are comfortable with the brush, practice writing kanji characters on traditional Japanese paper. You can choose meaningful Japanese words or characters and receive personalized guidance as you create your own calligraphy artwork.

Enjoy the workshop in a traditional tatami-style setting and take your time practicing, asking questions, and improving your technique. You can also wear a kimono during the experience for a premium session and take photos in the traditional Kyoto setting.

At the end of the workshop, take home your completed calligraphy artworks as unique handmade souvenirs of your time in Kyoto.

  1. SORA Kyoto Experiences

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Search “Sora Kyoto Experiences” on Google Maps for directions. The workshop takes place in the black house behind the parking lot. Please arrive at your scheduled start time. The door will open at the exact start time, as another session may be in progress or we may be preparing for your workshop.

End point

Search “Sora Kyoto Experiences” on Google Maps for directions. The workshop takes place in the black house behind the parking lot. Please arrive at your scheduled start time. The door will open at the exact start time, as another session may be in progress or we may be preparing for your workshop.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age: 5 years old. Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (190)
From
2,000.00 JPY 1,000.00 JPY per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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