Top Ishikawa Prefecture Classes & Workshops

After the Noto earthquake, many of my grandfather’s beautiful Kutani ware pieces—vases, tea cups, and plates—were broken. I couldn’t throw them away because they held so many memories. Instead, I decided to give them a new life by transforming the fragments into unique accessories. As a former instructor of gold leaf art in Kanazawa, I’ve spent years working with gold, and its delicate beauty inspired this workshop. I hope you’ll enjoy the same sense of creativity and tradition. During the experience, you’ll also savor Ishikawa’s famous Kaga-bōcha tea, served on a 100-year-old Wajima lacquer tray, along with Kutani ware teacups that survived the quake. It’s a moment of history, craftsmanship, and hospitality—all in one experience.

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!

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. After your lesson, receive training videos and images to remember your experience. If needed, a guide can accompany you to provide interpretation, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

In this work shop, you can make your own ring by using tools for hammer the texture. You will customize by choosing the material, texture, shape and thickness. We will support you until the end of the work shop! Skilled craftsmen will polish and clean the ring at the final process. The work shop takes around 1 hour and the ring can be taken home on the day! Please enjoy the experience of making your own ring with your precious person. Great recommendation for wedding rings(honeymoon) or souvenir trip.

The only Kutani ceramic kiln in Kanazawa, opened in 1870 (Meiji 3). We make ceranics by manual from clay blending, shaping on the wheel to final coloring. We sell Kutani ware pottery made by our kiln, and also offer studio tours, pottery making and painting workshops. You can try your hand at the potter's wheel using Kutani ware clay. Kutani ware clay is made from a ceramic stone called "porcelain clay," which is very fine and has a unique texture. The clay is very fine and has a unique feel to it. Unlike ordinary pottery clay, it can be difficult to work with, but the potter will guide you through the process until the finished product is ready. The finished product will be sent to you in about five months.

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.

From ¥9,900 p.p. (min. 2) | Same-day OK — book up to 2 hours before. Fully private, no strangers, just your group. A 19-year tea master guides you through authentic Enshu-ryū ceremony in a 100-year-old machiya in Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya geisha district. Step inside a 100-year-old machiya in Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya geisha district for a completely private tea ceremony. Your host Yuta has practiced tea for 19 years in the Enshu-ryū tradition, rooted in samurai culture. This is not a group workshop — it is an intimate ceremony performed exclusively for you, in a tea room with tatami and tokonoma alcove. During the 70-minute session, you will: · Watch a full tea ceremony demonstration · Whisk your own bowl of matcha. · Enjoy traditional dry sweets (higashi) · Ask anything — about tea, aesthetics, or Kanazawa · Take a commemorative photo Completely private. No other guests. No rush. English-guided throughout. Please note: · Socks recommended · Additional guests: ¥9,900/person (max 5)

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.

Kanazawa is famously known as the city of arts, and while you can find art workshops throughout Japan that you can easily participate in, it is rare to find one like ours that offers you a chance to truly experience Kanazawa's traditional arts in the form of Maki-e lacquerware, as well as an opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with the artisan who has dedicated their life to making it. The translator will be there to ensure that the communication between you and the artist is as smooth as possible, and you will be able to bring home with you a lacquerware that you make yourself!

Kendo is a martial art that allows even beginners to experience full-fledged combat.You can experience its rules, origins, etiquette and striking with a bamboo sword. 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~

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.

Experience the Samurai spirit through "KENDO," where even beginners can enjoy this traditional martial art in a fun and engaging way. Unlike conventional kendo, this program emphasizes "Kind Enjoy Natural Design Open," making it accessible to all. You’ll not only learn the basics of kendo but also immerse yourself in Japanese culture under the guidance of a skilled instructor who has led his junior high school team to victory in national tournaments. Perfect for adventure seekers, families with children, and those looking to dive deep into Japan's rich traditions, this experience offers an unforgettable cultural encounter that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Let's share knowledge such as the history of Japanese architecture, the construction of Japanese houses, and how to use carpentry tools with 58 years of carpentry experience. ・We will respond individually to a small number of people. ( Basically, we recruit 2 people, but if there are more than 3 people in the same group, consultation is required) ・You can learn the construction of wooden Japanese houses. ・You can learn how to use carpentry tools. ・If you participate in this activity, you will be the next precious successor of Japanese carpenters!

Originating from Kanazawa, Kutani ware is a distinctive style of Japanese porcelain famous for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. As the only Kutani ware kiln in the city, Kutani Kosen Kiln, established in 1870, remains one of the most revered ceramic studios in the region. The kiln produces exquisite handcrafted pottery using time-honored techniques, with skilled craftsmen specializing in the delicate art of painting and glazing. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the drawing techniques on Kutani ware. During this approx. 1 hour workshop, you will sketch and draw your design on a blank vessel and select your preferable colors from the Japanese pallette for your design before the workshop is concluded. Later, your work will be completed by a skilled craftsmen based on your selected colors by using traditional Kutani pigments. After painting, the piece will be fired in the kiln and shipped to you within about three months (shipping fee is at your expense).

You can experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. After a full explanation of the session in English, you will enter the tea room. The host will serve thick Matcha (koicha) followed by light Matcha (usucha). Watching the preparation of thick Matcha is very rare, making this a truly valuable experience. (Approximately 1 hour) After the tea preparation, you can experience grinding matcha with a stone mill and making your own matcha. Detailed instructions are provided in English. (Approximately 20 minutes) Seiza (kneeling) is not required, and chairs can be provided if needed.

Step into a renovated Kanazawa townhouse and immerse yourself in the world of glass art. Begin with a guided tour of the gallery, where the artist will introduce you to their works and share the stories behind them. Next, head to the workshop and learn about the glass-making process through videos and real-life examples. Discover the intricacies of hot work, kiln work, and cold work, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craft. Finally, create your own glass art piece. Choose your design, draw it on the glass, and use a sandblasting machine to carve it. Watch as your design emerges, creating a one-of-a-kind piece that you can take home.

Kanazawa is famously known as the city of arts and crafts, and while you can find art workshops throughout Japan that you can easily participate in, it is rare to find one like yours that offers you a chance to truly experience Japan's traditional arts in the form of paulownia woodcrafts, as well as an opportunity to step inside an actual workshop and have a conversation with the artisan who has dedicated their life to pursue arts. Your translator will be there to ensure that the communication between you and the artist is as smooth as possible, and you will be able to bring home with you a traditional paulownia wood coaster that you make yourself!

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.

The only Kutani ceramic kiln in Kanazawa, opened in 1870 (Meiji 3). We make ceranics by manual from clay blending, shaping on the wheel to final coloring. We sell Kutani ware pottery made by our kiln, and also offer studio tours, pottery making and painting workshops. You will be able to enter the actual workshop and learn about the process and characteristics of Kutani ware. You will be able to feel the history of the old workshop and see things that you would not normally see. You can ask us about your interests individually.

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.

Kanazawa is famously known as the city of arts, and while you can find art workshops throughout Japan that you can easily participate in, it is rare to find one like ours that offers you a chance to truly experience Kanazawa's traditional arts in the form of Yuzen, as well as an opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with the artisan who has dedicated their life to making it. Our translator will be there to ensure that the communication between you and the artist is as smooth as possible, and you will be able to bring home with you a memorable souvenir that you make yourself!

Swap Kanazawa sightseeing for the perfect foodie experience—a hands-on sushi-making lesson in a traditional house. No need to worry about bringing anything with you, as all ingredients and utensils are included. During the lesson, use local produce to make colorful and very Instagram-worthy “temari” sushi with your favorite ingredients and toppings. At the end, feast on your creations and round off the experience with a mini-tea ceremony.

Kanazawa is famously known as the city of arts, and while you can find art workshops throughout Japan that you can easily participate in, it is rare to find one like yours that offers you a chance to truly experience Japan's traditional arts in the form of Katazome stencil dyeing, as well as an opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with the artisan who has dedicated their life to making it. Your translator will be there to ensure that the communication between you and the artist is as smooth as possible, and you will be able to bring home with you a tote bag that you make yourself!