Top Chubu Classes & Workshops

Make Sushi. Discover UMAMI. Taste Kanazawa. Join an authentic Japanese cooking class at Nakata Cooking School, established in Kanazawa in 1969, just 3 minutes from Kanazawa Station. Make 6 pieces of nigiri sushi, including Nodoguro, then compare your sushi with one made by the chef using the same ingredients. Discover UMAMI by making ichiban dashi from kombu and bonito flakes. You’ll also prepare Jibuni with fresh Japanese wasabi, dashimaki tamago, miso soup, and a seasonal Japanese side dish. Enjoy everything you’ve made with Japanese sake, followed by chocolate mochi and seasonal fruit. Beginner-friendly, ages 12+, maximum 8 guests, with real-time AI translation in multiple languages. Dietary requirements: Pescatarian options are available, and meat can be replaced with fish. Vegetarian and vegan options are not available because our dashi contains bonito (fish) and cannot be substituted. Please inform us of dietary requirements or allergies when booking.

Seki has been a center for Japanese blacksmithing since the thirteenth century, and this small-group workshop takes you behind the scenes with the master craftsmen. Tour the Knife Museum, then try your hand at forging your own Damascus knife under the guidance of local craftsmen. Learn how to polish, sharpen, and engrave your own blade to take home.

Experience the traditional Japanese metalworking technique known as “Tankin” by creating your own handmade ring. In this workshop, you can choose your preferred material, thickness, shape, and texture, then customize your ring using special hammers and tools to create unique patterns and finishes. The experience takes about one hour, and our staff will carefully guide you through each step of the process. We will also help you take memorable photos during the workshop. Skilled craftsmen will complete the final polishing and cleaning, ensuring your ring is beautifully finished. You can take your handmade ring home on the same day, making it a perfect souvenir or meaningful gift from Japan. Whether you join alone or with someone special, this workshop offers a fun and creative experience where you can craft a one-of-a-kind ring that reflects your personal style. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own ring and creating unforgettable memories in Japan!

Try Calligraphy at a Beloved Local School in Kanazawa ( Near Ninja Temple ) Just ink, washi, and your hands. But the moment the brush touches the paper— you’ll feel it. A new side of Japan opens up. Our 100-year-old townhouse offers an authentic calligraphy experience. From basic brush strokes to your own final piece, a local calligraphy master will guide you step by step with care. Please note: On Thursdays and Saturdays after 3:00 PM, our local calligraphy class is in session, so you may occasionally see Japanese children nearby. This experience uses materials that contain animal-derived components.

Explore Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District on a guided walking tour. Learn about geisha culture, create a gold leaf souvenir, and enjoy matcha tea and sweets at a historic confectionery shop.

Skip mass-produced souvenirs and create a unique memory to take home from Kanazawa. Join skilled craftspeople in a hands-on workshop to design a ring that reflects your personal style, choosing details such as the material, texture, shape, and thickness. Leave with a custom-made ring crafted by you, which is ready to take home the same day.

Calligraphy Experience Flow Feel the brush and paper First, you’ll enjoy feeling the texture of the brush and paper while practicing basic brush strokes. Choose your favorite kanji Next, choose your favorite Japanese character — for example, “Love,” “Dream,” “Heart,” or “Fuji.” Our staff will provide individual support and guidance. Create your own masterpiece Finally, write and complete your own original calligraphy artwork — a one-of-a-kind piece in the world, created by you. ️ Your finished artwork can be taken home as a special souvenir of your time in Japan.

Immerse yourself in the world of the samurai with a private swordsmanship lesson in Kanazawa City. Begin by changing into a traditional samurai kimono, setting the stage for an authentic experience. Under the guidance of a skilled sword master, learn the basics of swordsmanship in a private setting at an old temple. Discover the techniques and discipline that define this ancient art. Kanazawa, a samurai town with a history spanning 400 years, provides the perfect backdrop for this unique experience. Feel the spirit of the samurai as you train in this historic city. Receive training wonderful photos to remember your experience. It will send by email latter. During the summer, the venue does not have air conditioning. Please dress comfortably, as it can get quite warm. As an optional addition to your samurai experience, you can take part in a traditional Zazen meditation session guided by a Buddhist monk.

Kintsugi is a Japanese traditional repairing method to repair and reuse potteries which was born over 500 years ago. This is the very unique way because you can reuse the repaired pieces! If you have some broken pieces which you want to repair at your home, this is the chance to learn the introduction for Kintsugi. IMPORTANT NOTICE In this workshop, we don't break things on purpose out of respect to potteries and artisans who made it - As we are going to use the sap of *Urushi (related to poison ivy), this workshop is not recommended to people whose skin is very sensitive since it might cause skin rush. We are afraid that we cannot be responsible of your skin reaction caused by materials. - Please wear or bring a long sleeve shirt and trousers which you have no problem with dirt. For your safety, please kindly avoid waring any accessories on your hands and wrists. - Minimum age requirement is 18 years old. (16 y/o if they sign up with their guardian)

Experience the delicate art of Japanese sweets and the serene ritual of the tea ceremony in Kanazawa. This hands-on workshop blends creativity, culture, and mindfulness as you craft seasonal wagashi and learn authentic matcha preparation. Guided by a local expert, you’ll discover the meaning behind each sweet design and the grace of tea etiquette. Unlike typical tastings, this immersive experience invites you to participate fully, connecting you with Kanazawa’s refined traditions in an intimate, welcoming setting. Perfect for travelers seeking both artistry and cultural depth.

Immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese art at our Ukiyo-e indigo dyeing workshop at Mount Fuji. Under the guidance of local experts, you'll learn the intricacies of indigo dyeing, known as "Nihon-ai," while creating your own hanging scroll. Choose from various shibori techniques to dye a tenugui hand towel, then apply a silk-screen print featuring Mount Fuji or other cultural motifs. This two-hour experience not only celebrates Japan's rich artistic heritage but also offers the chance to take home a personalized artwork reflecting your creativity and the beauty of Japanese culture.

About the Soba Cooking Class Discover Yamanashi by making Oshino Hakkai Soba with Mount Fuji's snowmelt. Enjoy crafting a traditional Japanese dish steeped in history. Oshino Hakkai, featuring eight clear ponds from Mount Fuji's springs, is celebrated for its quality water, ideal for soba. It's a unique spot to savor soba from these waters. The class welcomes all, including beginners and kids, making it a fun activity for families and groups. Noodle-making here is a special experience shared across ages. Recommended for Those Who Wish to taste Yamanashi's famous cuisine? Are you interested in making Yamanashi's local dishes? Seek activities near Lake Kawaguchi.Desire a family-friendly cooking experience.Look for unique experience plans. Need rainy day activities? Want English-guided tours?

Visit the authentic washi making factory of RYOZO Yanase Paper Mill and get a deeper look into the world of washi making. The owners, Mr. and Ms. Yanase have years of experience and will give you knowledgeable instructions. Guests will get to tour the washi factory where they make paper fit for commercials products such as packaging for Japanese sweets. It is a rare opportunity to see such a factory. Afterwards with the instructions of Ms. Yanase, a traditional craftsman, guests will make a washi piece that is perfect as a tapestry. It is made using traditional techniques so it is a chance to experience authentic washi making.

Our experience offers a unique opportunity to make Hoto, Yamanashi’s traditional noodle dish, from scratch near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko. Unlike a typical cooking class, guests knead the dough, roll it out, and cut the noodles entirely by hand before enjoying the meal they created themselves. Friendly instructors provide step-by-step guidance, making the experience enjoyable for beginners, families, couples, and solo travelers alike. We also strive to accommodate food allergies, dietary restrictions, and religious requirements whenever possible. This hands-on cultural experience combines authentic local cuisine, Japanese traditions, and unforgettable memories of the Mt. Fuji region. Guests can enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere while learning a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations in Yamanashi. No cooking experience is required, and all ingredients and equipment are provided.

Immerse yourself in the art of Kintsugi, where broken ceramics are transformed into beautiful masterpieces. Under the guidance of Rin Kiyose, a young artisan born into a family that has practiced Kaga Maki-e in Kanazawa for three generations,, you’ll engage in the delicate process of lacquer application and gold powder coating. This hands-on experience allows you to contribute to a piece crafted by a skilled artist, giving it your personal touch while learning about the philosophy of embracing imperfections. Create a unique souvenir that reflects your journey and the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.

Must-have experience in Japan! Kimono + Japanese-style tea lesson with a great view of Mt. Fuji! (Note: The view of Mt. Fuji depends on the weather conditions.) This experience includes a tea lesson for 30 minutes while wearing a kimono. Booking in advance is required. You will be assisted for 30 minutes by an English or Japanese teacher on how to make a Japanese-style tea.

Create a unique souvenir of your time in Japan in this small-group mizuhiki workshop in Kanazawa. A traditional Kanazawa craft, mizuhiki is the art of Japanese paper twisted into cords and is a popular gift. In this workshop, you can make accessories such as earrings, a necklace, or a hair accessory—each are light and easy to fit in your luggage.

* Make your own chopsticks from premium Kiso Hinoki cypress in historic Magome-juku. * Experience using a traditional Japanese kanna hand plane. * Complete your chopsticks in about 20–30 minutes and take them home the same day. * Take home fragrant Kiso Hinoki wood shavings in a small aroma bag as a special souvenir. * A short, hands-on cultural experience that fits easily into your visit to Magome and the Nakasendo Trail.

Unlike a typical ramen meal, this hands-on experience allows participants to make their own ramen noodles from scratch and enjoy the finished dish they created themselves. Guided by local instructors, guests can learn traditional Japanese noodle-making techniques in a fun and interactive setting.The experience is beginner-friendly and suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and groups. Located near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, it offers a unique opportunity to combine sightseeing with an authentic Japanese cultural and culinary experience.By making and eating your own Tonkotsu Ramen, you can gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese food culture while creating lasting travel memories.In addition to the ramen-making experience, guests can also visit your rescue cat café, where rescued cats are cared for in a relaxed environment. This unique combination of Japanese food culture and community-based animal welfare offers a memorable experience that goes beyond a typical cooking class.

Experience yoga inside a traditional Japanese shrine hall not usually open to the public. Enjoy a calm, peaceful morning. This beginner-friendly, relaxing session helps you feel refreshed and ready to enjoy your day in Kanazawa.

Using pre-cut masking tape stencils in various beautiful designs, you'll apply authentic gold leaf to create your own unique artwork. This beginner-friendly workshop allows you to master this centuries-old Japanese craft technique while surrounded by the traditional architecture and atmosphere of one of Japan's most preserved historic districts.

Step into the charm of old Japan and create unforgettable memories in a beautiful kimono! At our self-photo studio in Kanazawa, you can dress yourself in a traditional kimono with easy step-by-step guidance — no experience needed. Our professional photo setup includes studio lighting, tripods, and remote shutters, so you can take flawless selfies just like a pro. The highlight is our unique projector system, displaying over 20 breathtaking Japanese scenes behind you — from cherry blossoms and tea houses to calligraphy and gold-leaf art. Enhance your photos with traditional props such as Japanese umbrellas, folding fans, samurai swords, and vintage chairs, perfectly capturing the elegance and spirit of Japan. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this hands-on kimono and photo experience is a must-do in Kanazawa. At the end of your session, receive all your photo data to take home — your very own masterpiece and the perfect souvenir of Japan.

■ Experience Highlights ・Held in a traditional Kanazawa machiya townhouse ・Small-group setting ・English-friendly ・Participation is optional and relaxed (no pressure) ・Made with fresh local ingredients ・Warm, home-visit atmosphere ・Includes local sightseeing tips Please note: This is not a formal cooking class.