Top Aichi Prefecture Classes & Workshops

Craft Your Own Legacy in a Historic Textile Town Experience the magic of Arimatsu Shibori, a nationally designated craft with over 400 years of history. Kuno Dyeing Factory hosts private workshops guided by a master artisan, you will use traditional tie-dyeing techniques to transform plain fabric into a vibrant work of art. Whether you are creating a gift or a personal treasure, this hands-on workshop offers a peaceful retreat into the refined aesthetics of Edo-period Japan. Bring home your handcrafted creation as a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your journey through Nagoya.

Highlights -Meet master Nagoya Buddhist altar and Owari cloisonné artisans shaping living traditions -Craft your own chopsticks from premium Kiso cypress using authentic artisan tools -Observe delicate cloisonné brushwork and the rare moment of kiln opening -Savor classic Nagoya regional dishes served on handcrafted lacquerware and cloisonné tableware -Take home handcrafted chopsticks and a cloisonné chopstick rest as lasting mementos Tour Overview Nagoya’s craftsmanship still thrives today. This experience offers hands-on workshops with master artisans. Craft Kiso cypress chopsticks with seventh-generation artisan Yasuyuki Iwata of Iwata Sanpo, then enjoy a Nagoya-style lunch in lacquered boxes. In the afternoon, watch live Owari cloisonné demonstrations by Satsuki Nonaka of Ota Shippo, revealing these crafts as living traditions near Nagoya Station.

Highlights - Explore a family-run woodworking workshop crafting sacred furnishings for Japanese traditions. - Learn how handcrafted wooden furnishings and ritual implements are created for Shinto and Buddhist traditions. - Meet a seventh-generation artisan preserving generations of traditional craftsmanship. - Create your own pair of Kiso cypress chopsticks using professional woodworking tools. - Take home a handcrafted souvenir made from Japan’s finest cypress wood. Overview Discover Nagoya’s traditional woodworking with an exclusive visit to the Iwata Sanpo workshop near Atsuta Shrine. Learn about Owari Butsugu from a certified Traditional Craftsman, then create your own pair of Kiso hinoki chopsticks using professional tools. Take home your handcrafted chopsticks as a unique souvenir. An optional traditional lacquer finish is also available.

Experience the beauty of the koto, one of Japan’s most iconic traditional instruments, in Nagoya. Enjoy a koto live concert and a private session with professional koto musicians, learning to play in an intimate and serene setting. This is a private lesson for up to five people, allowing for a relaxed and personalized experience tailored to your pace and interest. We provide everything you need for your koto lesson, including the instrument and accessories. Your lesson will take place in a traditional Japanese classroom, where you can enjoy the tranquility of wabi-sabi aesthetics and a meditative atmosphere, making it a truly immersive and peaceful experience. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of koto, one of Japan’s most treasured musical traditions!

Put on a kimono and discover a different side of Nagoya! Located in the heart of the Sakae area, just a 5-minute walk from Sakae Station, this kimono rental is a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture. Choose your favorite kimono and let the English-speaking staff help you get dressed. Then, explore the city at your own pace in traditional Japanese style! Nagoya Castle and Osu Shopping Street are just two subway stops away, making it easy to visit popular attractions. Please return to the studio by 4:30 PM. Perfect for families, couples, and friends of all ages, this is a fun and memorable way to make your time in Nagoya extra special.

[The Experience] Discover the intersection of tradition and modern design. Located just 5 minutes from the Kanayama transport hub, this session takes place in a contemporary art studio nestled within the historic grounds of GANKO-JI Temple. [A Rare Encounter] Depending on the day, you may have the exclusive chance to meet the Temple Priest or his wife, who will share personal insights into temple life. Kayoko will provide live English translation. [Special Temple Welcome] Before we begin our ikebana session, you will be served a cup of Japanese tea in a traditional ceramic cup along with a specially selected local sweet from Nagoya. [The Art of Sogetsu] Sogetsu-ryu is renowned for its free, sculptural approach. Watch Kayoko, a 1st Grade Instructor, demonstrate how to manipulate bold elements like WILLOW. Learn to treat flowers not just as plants, but as medium for modern art. [Your Masterpiece] Awaken your senses as you compose your own floral sculpture.

Unlike standard mass-market tastings or automated factory tours, this private experience grants rare, behind-the-scenes access to Sawada Sake Brewery—a 170-year-old heritage producer near Nagoya in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, where traditional hand-craftsmanship thrives. What sets this exclusive sake tasting apart is the multi-sensory ceramic pairing. Guided personally by the brewery owner, you will explore six distinct Japanese sakes and craft plum wine (umeshu) using four differently shaped, handcrafted Tokoname-yaki artisan pottery cups to discover how ceramic shapes transform flavor profiles, before selecting your favorite handmade cup to take home as a souvenir. By combining owner-led heritage storytelling, a 6-variety sake tasting paired with local fermented snacks, and an authentic Tokoname ceramic gift, this experience delivers an unforgettable cultural highlight for travelers exploring Greater Nagoya and the Chita Peninsula region.

The allure of Owari Shippo lies in its indescribable "depth of color." The thickness of the glaze, the temperature of the fire, the brilliance of the metal base... Even slight variations in conditions can cause the appearance to change like a kaleidoscope. It would be a shame to simply admire this art form, which Nagoya is proud of, and leave it at that. After observing the masterful work of skilled artisans up close, it's finally your turn. The vibrant glaze is applied, the piece is placed in the kiln, and the elation of seeing the brilliance come to life is felt. The finished piece is a "crystal of light" that is uniquely yours. Enjoy a moment of immersion in the delicate and luxurious magic of color.

You’ll step inside a popular ramen chain’s Nagoya shop to learn how to make a delicious bowl of Nagahama ramen yourself. Start by learning about ramen-making and ingredients from a trained ramen chef while your host, Yuka, provides English support. Then, customize your experience by choosing from three types of ramen: You’ll learn how to boil the noodles as you master the art of getting just the right firmness, one of the most important aspects of Nagahama ramen. Next, you’ll pour your noodles into the rich and flavorful piping hot soup. Add seasonings and toppings to make it not just more delicious but also more photogenic. Make sure to take some pictures when your bowl is complete. With your hard work finished, dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors of the tonkotsu broth and the satisfying firmness of the noodles. Listen to a brief introduction to ramen-making Learn how to boil and drain the noodles Combine your noodles into the piping hot soup and toppings to complete your bowl.

You can recreate the potter's wheel experience as many times as you like. You can create it as many times as you like until you are satisfied. Please create your favorite utensils such as rice bowls, plates, tea cups, etc. You can also choose the color when finished. The craftsmen's talk will be unique and it will be a fun time.

Refined Dining Above the City Skyline The highlight of this plan is the exceptional setting—30 floors above ground, offering a panoramic view of Nagoya. From this exclusive vantage point, you can enjoy the city’s evening lights while relaxing in a sophisticated, private atmosphere. This is not a typical dinner; it is an opportunity to experience "Japanese-French fusion" at its finest. The menu features premium local ingredients, such as Mikawa Isshiki eel and Nagoya Cochin, prepared with meticulous French techniques. Each dish is designed to highlight the natural flavors of the season, providing a true taste of the region's culinary culture. To conclude your evening, a signature cocktail awaits at the top-floor bar. Combined with the stunning scenery, this experience offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and local hospitality. It is the ideal way to spend a memorable final night in Nagoya.

Nishio, is a small town located in the south-central part of Aichi Prefecture. Nishio is known for being one of the major production areas of matcha along with Uji (Kyoto) and Kyoto proper. The quality of Nishio matcha is highly recognized throughout the country and overseas. This one day experience starts with a video introduction of the matcha production process. Your local guide will explain to you about the history of Nishio Matcha. Then, you will head to the tea fields and you will be able to take photos while wearing the traditional tea outfit. After tea field tour, you will take a brief factory tour to watch how the leaves are dried and prepared for tea-making. This will give you a good understanding of the process required to develop the harvested tea. Once you finish the tea factory tour, you will make your matcha cup for drinking with the guidance of the local tour guide. Finally, you will be able to enjoy the green tea with sweets.

Practice the time-honored arts of samurai swordsmanship during this exclusive, hands-on Kendo workshop. Work one-on-one with an experienced Kendo instructor, with all equipment and armor included. Learn practical skills and put your new moves to the test during a tournament-style combat game. All experience levels are welcome, and participants receive complimentary drinks and a souvenir Kendo towel. Highlight=Samurai culture instruction/Practical guidance by over 20 years of Kendo experience guide/Hitting to instructors/Combat game/Guide demonstration/Free Japanese Kendo towel/Acceptable 2 people~

Owari Butsugu are traditional Japanese crafts that have been produced since the early Edo period, with Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture at their cultural center. For over 50 years, Kobo Noyori has dedicated itself to crafting Kazarikanagu, the finely detailed decorative metal fittings that form an essential part of this heritage. Prior to the hands-on experience, guests are introduced to the history of Owari Butsugu, its traditional craftsmanship, and the meticulous process of creating Kazarikanagu. The workshop then proceeds using the traditional chokin metal engraving technique, in which patterns are carefully carved into metal plates with chisels (tagane), following methods passed down through generations of artisans. Available Items & Prices Copper Incense Holder / Incense Plate – ¥10,000 Brass Bangle – ¥10,000 Silver Ring (Sizes 1–20) – ¥18,000 Silver Ring (Sizes 21–30) – ¥20,000 Silver Pendant Top – ¥18,000 Silver Pendant Top with Chain – ¥23,000 Silver Bangle – ¥35,000

- Discover koji, the essential ingredient behind many of Japan’s traditional fermented foods and seasonings. - Learn how shio koji naturally enhances flavor and tenderizes ingredients in Japanese cooking. - Prepare a complete meal using shio koji with an experienced cooking instructor. - Sit down together and enjoy the dishes you have prepared from scratch. - Cook inside a long-established local café in Nagoya’s historic Endoji Shopping Street.

Ramen is now one of the most popular Japanese foods! In this lesson, you will try making miso ramen with lots of vegetables. Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning, and there are many varieties. Nagoya has a thriving fermentation culture, and there are many stores that have been producing miso, soy sauce, and mirin for centuries. The miso from nagoya is called “aka-miso” (red miso), which is darker in color and slightly salty in contrast to Kyoto's white miso, but when made into ramen, it is very mild and goes very well with vegetables and noodles. In this lesson, we will show you the recommended recipe and how to make a flavorful ramen soup. After cooking, it is time for tasting! Please enjoy the hot, freshly made ramen. While enjoying your meal, let's talk about Nagoya, the wonderful sightseeing spots around Japan, your country, and much more! We look forward to seeing you there!

You can wear full-fledged kimonos (Furisode) because we are kimono school teacher and staff. They are more gorgeous than ordinary kimonos. You can make an original fan and take it as souvenirs. Let't write your favorite characters on the fan. You can relax with an atmosphere which makes you feel at home. It's a private activity.(from 2 or more people) So if you have a request, please contact me. I'll do my best for you. (over 65 is Ok, if you can walk) ※We offer Japanese sweets. If you are allergic to food, please let me know in advance.

Endoji Shopping Arcade is a charming covered shopping street near Nagoya Station, blending the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era with the infusion of modern culture since the Meiji period. Located within this arcade, the tea room Wasuikouan offers the opportunity to enjoy a meal of one soup and two side dishes, along with tea and sweets. Experience the cultural richness and culinary delights in the heart of Nagoya's historic district.

・Cook fluffy Japanese rice in a traditional kama pot and experience it freshly prepared. ・Make your own onigiri with freshly cooked rice and your choice of fillings. ・Learn to roll traditional futomaki sushi with guidance from a professional hotel chef. ・Watch the chef demonstrate sushi-making techniques and precise Japanese knife skills up close. ・Discover the food culture and local ingredients of Gamagori and the Mikawa region.

Private Calligraphy Experience in Nagoya Experience Shodo, the traditional Japanese art of calligraphy, in Nagoya. Enjoy a unique and private session with a professional calligrapher in a serene setting. We provide everything you need for your calligraphy experience, including brushes, paper, and inkstones. The venue is a building constructed by Miyadaiku, traditional Japanese carpenters. It is also used as a classroom for teaching traditional Japanese culture, mainly focusing on the koto, a traditional Japanese musical instrument. Your experience will take place in a traditional Japanese classroom, where you can enjoy the tranquility of wabi-sabi aesthetics and a meditative atmosphere, making it a truly immersive and peaceful experience. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of Shodo, one of Japan’s most cherished art forms.

Highlights - Learn to prepare three types of sushi perfect for entertaining back home - Experience sushi-making in a charming retro café run by a long-standing tea shop - Enjoy a homemade sushi lunch with miso soup in a warm, welcoming setting - Explore a local shopping arcade and shop for fresh sushi ingredients like a local - Take home the knowledge to recreate sushi parties with ease and flair Overview Discover the art of sushi-making with a local twist in the nostalgic streets near Nagoya Station. This hands-on experience is perfect for learning how to prepare authentic sushi in a relaxed, friendly environment. Visit a local supermarket to pick up fresh ingredients before heading to a cozy retro café run by a long-standing tea shop. Learn to make three types of sushi: Temari sushi (bite-sized sushi), Maki sushi (traditional rolled sushi), and Temaki sushi (hand-rolled sushi cones). Finish by enjoying your handmade sushi with a warm bowl of traditional clear soup.

Tour highlights -Create your own authentic Japanese knife with a blacksmith in service for 200 years -Pound iron with your own two hands in the historical setting of a rural Japanese living museum -Learn the rural lifestyle techniques of a seasoned craftsman -Stroll through Asuke’s historic townscape with its roots in prehistory -Finish your totally unique, handcrafted knife in one day, ready to take home. Tour details This Toyota Green Life Experience tour invites you to craft your own knife in historic Asuke under the guidance of seventh-generation blacksmith Yuto Hirose. Learn traditional forging techniques as you shape a blade from scratch over open flames. In the afternoon, explore Asuke’s Edo-period streets and enjoy local specialties such as wild boar dishes or gohei mochi. Finally, pick up your finished knife, expertly sharpened and fitted with a cord-wrapped handle by the master blacksmith, and take home a unique memento of your experience.

Highlights Feel the weight of a real sword in your hands — and discover why every movement in Iaido begins with stillness. Learn directly from an 8th-dan grandmaster — the pinnacle of Iaido mastery, and one of very few in Japan. Slip into a practice kimono and feel the shift — something about the cloth and the silence changes how you carry yourself. Walk onto a centuries-old Noh stage and perform — the kind of moment you will struggle to explain until you show someone the photo. Overview Go beyond the museum display and experience the samurai tradition firsthand by learning Iaido, the Japanese martial art of the sword draw. In this experience, your instructor will guide you through the fundamentals and help you discover the stillness and precision of Iaido. Practice the techniques, then perform the sequence on the traditional Noh stage. No prior experience is required. Just bring your curiosity and experience the unique connection between swordsmanship and the Noh stage.

Discover the spiritual heart of Japan through its most elegant New Year tradition. While many observe Japanese culture from afar, this workshop invites you to participate in it. Why this activity is unique You will craft a Shimenawa Wreath, a sacred rope traditionally hung at shrines and homes to purify the entrance and invite good fortune. This is not just a craft; it is a meditative experience rooted in the philosophy of Ikebana—emphasizing harmony, seasonality, and the beauty of empty space (Ma). What you will experience Mindfulness: Step away from the busy travel rush and find focus in the rhythm of weaving. Symbolism: Learn the hidden language of nature as you work with materials like Rice Straw (gratitude), Pine (evergreen longevity), and Mizuhiki cords (unity). Authenticity: Create a talisman that protects your home and symbolizes a fresh start. Don't just buy a souvenir. Create a personalized symbol of luck, longevity, and joy to carry with you into the New Year.