Top Kansai Classes & Workshops - page 21

Learn the art of ikebana—traditional Japanese flower arrangement—from an experienced ikebana master. Explore Tondaya, a historic machiya nationally registered as an Important Cultural Property.

This Kyoto workshop offers a rare opportunity to create a Dry Bonsai made from real bonsai branches, combining traditional aesthetics with modern practicality. The workshop is led by a professional guide who can conduct the experience in both English and French, ensuring clear explanations and smooth communication for international guests. Unlike living bonsai, which require ongoing watering, pruning, and careful climate control, Dry Bonsai requires no maintenance at all. There is no soil, no risk of withering, and no special care needed after the workshop. Because it is lightweight and soil-free, Dry Bonsai can be safely and easily taken home, making it an ideal souvenir for travelers who want an authentic Japanese craft without travel restrictions. You’ll create a unique, long-lasting bonsai artwork that captures the spirit of Kyoto and the beauty of bonsai — designed to be enjoyed for years, not weeks.

James’s artistic path is anything but conventional. Beginning with body painting and later collaborating with Universal Studios Japan, his fascination with fluid, organic lines naturally evolved into washi lamp art. His designs reject rigid geometry — no straight lines, only gentle curves inspired by movement and light. He works with exceptional materials, including rare mulberry-fiber paper and Mino Washi, a historically significant paper from Gifu Prefecture recognized for its cultural value. His contributions to Japan’s Akari Art Festival have earned multiple awards, with one piece preserved in a museum collection. Through this workshop, guests not only create a personal artwork but also participate in sustaining a traditional craft facing modern challenges.

Train with a traditional Japanese sword master inside a historic temple in Osaka. Learn authentic swordsmanship techniques, experience samurai etiquette, and discover the connection between Zen-inspired discipline and martial arts in an exclusive setting normally closed to the public. The experience takes place at Ryuan-ji Temple in Minoh, a peaceful temple surrounded by nature. The training area is normally closed to visitors and is opened exclusively for this program. During your visit, you'll also enjoy a live sword demonstration by the master.

Have you ever wondered how to wear a kimono that is longer than you are? Putting on a kimono is difficult, and even Japanese people have a hard time putting it on by themselves, but with our professional techniques, we will dress you beautifully. It can be difficult to move in and difficult to wear for long periods of time, but in a short amount of time you can look great in a kimono, take photos, and combine them into your favorite images. So you can go to the beach or into space in a kimono, and the photos will look amazing! This experience is perfect for any day, rainy or stormy, hot or cold.

Experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality in a beautifully preserved 125-year-old traditional home, where you'll discover the time-honored art of mochi making alongside a local host. Take part in the authentic mochi-pounding process using traditional wooden tools, learn techniques passed down through generations, and enjoy tasting freshly made mochi in a variety of traditional styles. Beyond the hands-on activity, you'll share a homemade Japanese meal featuring seasonal dishes and local ingredients while gaining insight into Japanese culture, customs, and everyday life. This intimate experience offers a rare opportunity to step inside a historic family home and connect with Japan's culinary traditions in a meaningful and memorable way.

-Explore Satake Glass, a historic glass studio in a nationally registered cultural property, and watch skilled artisans create glass rods and beads. -Try hands-on techniques by cutting glass rods—the essential material used in glass art. -Craft your own original glass bead by melting glass over an open flame and shaping it with your own hands. -Transform your handmade bead into a necklace, creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake to take home. -Visit Shinodamori Shrine, admire its sacred camphor tree, and receive a special blessing and purification from the chief priest. (not included for the option without the shrine blessing experience)

-Create your own ancient-inspired Haniwa in the heart of a World Heritage kofun area. -Take your handcrafted Haniwa home the same day using special quick-firing clay. -Explore major historic sites during firing time, including Emperor Ojin’s vast kofun and centuries-old shrines. -Enjoy a unique day in Habikino City, blending hands-on craftsmanship with rich ancient history.

-Create Ancient Crafts, make Magatama and Bronze Mirror replicas, symbols of power in the Yayoi era. -Experience Yayoi-Period History, learn about life and culture from over 2,000 years ago. -View Authentic Artifacts, see animal figures, tools, and other items excavated from the ancient site. -Explore Archaeological Remains, observe real ground layers and pillar foundations from the Yayoi period.

You can enjoy an authentic Japanese cultural experience and sushi making with a professional Japanese chef. Even beginners will receive clear and attentive instruction. ※This experience is non-refundable because every detail is　prepared exclusively for each guest. Ingredients are sourced in advance from farmers, fishermen, and artisans across Japan. Tableware is carefully selected to match the season and the story of the meal. Preparation begins days before your arrival. Due to preparation and limited seating, this experience is non-refundable, Thank you.

Experience a fragrance culture that has existed for hundreds of years in one of Kyoto’s historic buildings. Create your own incense using a blend of different aromatic ingredients. You can take your finished incense home, making it a wonderful souvenir from your Kyoto trip. The staff carefully guide you through the process, so even beginners can enjoy the experience. Why not take the memories of Kyoto home in the form of scent?

Authentic traditional experience You can fully immerse yourself in the art of Washi papermaking by creating paper from natural fibers of the Kozo, following time-honored techniques. Learn directly from a master craftsman Under the guidance of an experienced artisan, you’ll gain hands-on knowledge, including how to skillfully use a Sudare and other traditional tools. Beginner-friendly and supportive Even if it’s your first time, step-by-step instruction ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience, allowing you to confidently create your own unique sheet of Washi.

A rare opportunity to experience authentic traditional Japanese craftsmanship using Echizen lacquerware, Japanese washi paper, and real 24K gold leaf. Create your own one-of-a-kind Japanese lucky charm while learning traditional Japanese decorative techniques in a fun hands-on workshop. Enjoy a unique cultural experience that also includes a professional souvenir photo, Japanese green tea, and even a live Okinawan Sanshin music performance.

Craft Chopsticks Using Traditional Japanese Tools Experience authentic Japanese craftsmanship by shaping your own chopsticks with traditional woodworking planes. Choose from a Wide Variety of Natural Woods Personalize your chopsticks by selecting from 12 types of natural wood, including rare and beautifully grained options. Create a One-of-a-Kind Souvenir Add optional name engraving and take home a pair of handcrafted chopsticks that make a meaningful keepsake or gift.

Try the unique experience of cooking real Japanese cuisine with an experienced chef. An opportunity to learn how to cook takoyaki in Osaka style! Takoyaki is a very popular dish in Japan, a ball-shaped Japanese snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked in a special molded pan. “Tako” means octopus and “Yaki “grilled. Takoyaki was first popularized in Osaka, where a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo is credited with its invention in 1935. But since its invention, several regional specialties have developed, and more generally, everyone cooks takoyaki the way they like it. Instead of octopus, meat can be used, or cheese can be added, and so on. The classic takoyaki loved by the Japanese remains the one with octopus. Once you've finished your takiyaki, you can enjoy what you've cooked and take photos! By offering more than 300 Japanese and Japanese-made Western dishes to foreign visitors to Japan, we convey the wonders of Japan through the experience of taste and cooking.

Kintsugi is a traditional technique that adds a meaningful touch to damaged objects. This technique symbolically represents the Japanese aesthetic of embracing imperfection and the spirit of valuing things. The restored object is transformed into a completely new and unique piece while retaining the story of the past, so that it can be used with love and care again. In this workshop, you will learn traditional kintsugi techniques from a master craftsman with over 50 years in crafting Buddhist ritual objects. Recognized by the Japanese government as a “Traditional Craftsman,” he received the Order of the Sacred Treasure for his contributions. Under his guidance and with genuine lacquer, you will follow key steps of kintsugi, from joining broken pieces and repairing chips to applying gold powder. Engaging with a craftsman who preserves Japan’s traditions offers a rare chance to broaden your view and connect with living culture. Please note: Minimum group size: 2 participants required

In this interactive course, you'll master the art of Japanese seasoning using classic ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and sake. You'll learn to grill, simmer, marinate, and pickle, experimenting with different ratios to achieve authentic flavors. By the end of the class, you might just become a washoku master!

This is a great opportunity to learn about sake and Japanese culture. Sake tasting and snacks from various regions of Japan will be served. Guides will provide explanations in English and Japanese, with additional translation equipment for explanations in other languages, so everyone is welcome to participate. During the tasting, you will learn about the different types of sake, how they are made, and how they pair with food. You will also have the opportunity to taste a variety of sake, including Daiginjo, Ginjo, and Junmai sake. The snacks served are carefully selected to complement the sake and enhance the overall taste experience. This experience is a great way to learn about Japanese culture and experience the unique flavors of sake. It is also a great opportunity to meet other sake enthusiasts. This experience will deepen your understanding of sake and add another layer of significance to your trip.

Start your moring by cooking a classic Japanese breakfast. Learn how to make onigiri (rice ball), miso soup, and tamagoyaki (rolled omelet). Discover the flavors of Japanese home cooking and culture. Japanese breakfast a beautifully balanced meal providing all the nutrients you need to start your day. As you prepare and eat each dish, you'll connect to Japanese tradition, balance, and mindfulness, deepening your understanding of the food culture. Alongside your cooking, a selection of small side dishes will be served to complement your traditional Japanese breakfast. A friendly, English-speaking guide will be with you every step of the way in a small intimate class setting. This ensures you can fully enjoy each step, ask questions, and connect with the tradition at your own pace, so you really get the most out of every moment. Once you mater these cookings on the experience, you will be recreate them in your own country, bringing a taste of Japan right into your kitchen.

Learn the spirit of tea in a 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse, guided by a tea master in a private setting.

Unleash your creativity in a small-group manga and anime drawing class led by a professional artist in the heart of Kyoto. Perfect for both novices and seasoned artists, this workshop guides you through the art of sketching, coloring, and bringing your unique characters to life. Learn insider techniques and tips from a pro who has worked in the manga industry, making this not just a class, but a deep dive into Japanese pop culture. Plus, you’ll leave with your very own artwork as a memorable souvenir of your Kyoto adventure.

Tea Ceremony Experience the authentic world of tea ceremony in a historic, 150-year-old Kyomachiya overlooking the Kamogawa River. During the experience, you can enjoy wearing a complimentary Haori (kimono-style jacket). At the end of the session, feel free to take memorable photos against the beautiful backdrop of the historic townhouse and the scenic river. We also offer the premium Uji matcha—the same high-quality tea used in the ceremony—available for purchase (limited to one per group). Japanese Calligraphy Experience Would you like to experience the traditional Japanese art of calligraphy in a historic Kyomachiya built over 150 years ago? You can take your finished calligraphy artwork home with you as a special souvenir of your trip to Kyoto. During the experience, you can also enjoy wearing a traditional Haori (kimono-style jacket) for free. At the end of the session, feel free to take commemorative photos with your masterpiece inside the historic townhouse.

Appeal-We wish women who deeply study Japan's traditional culture and wish to incorporate its aesthetic sensibility into their private lives to embody this. ➤By embodying the residence and garden , you can gain a deep understanding of the uniquely Japanese aesthetic sensibility expressed through traditional culture. Please enjoy elegant moments while savouring the scenery that changes with the seasons. Highlights- Generally not offered at historic cultural properties ➤ The exclusive hire is little known, a secret among those in the know. An interview is also required to preserve its value. In other words, most overlook it because they cannot fully appreciate or utilise it. Highlight 2―Embrace this traditional beauty ➤ To radiate beauty through demeanour and manner, a deep understanding of its unique aesthetic sensibility is essential. Instructors patiently and meticulously guide you.

The biggest attraction is that you can experience two traditional cultures privately. You'll discover traditional Japanese culture and learn techniques that can easily be repeated at home. You can watch IKEBANA(flower arrangement) demonstration and Tea ceremony taking place in a Japandi-style alcove. You'll get a hands-on training from licensed instructors. You can deeply learn the sense of the seasons and the spirit of hospitality that we Japanese cherish. Vegans are welcome. Let me know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions.