Top Kyoto Classes & Workshops - page 15

Exclusive Zen Journey: Only 2 Guests per Day 1. Impossible to find on your own I hand-select "Wagashi" (sweets) from hidden local gems outside tourist zones. These are real flavors of history you cannot find on Google or main streets. I bring the hidden Japan to you. 2. Hospitality starts before you knock Whether cold or room temperature, your tea is ready. If you are sensitive to heat ("Nekojita"), I must be prepared. My welcome begins long before you step inside. You are expected and cared for. 3. The Ultimate Travel Reset I read your body and reset it after 16 years of experience. I don’t follow a manual; I recalibrate your specific fatigue so you can enjoy the rest of your journey in comfort. 4. What is "WADO"? "WA" (和) is harmony; "DO" (道) is the path. To me, it’s a bridge for cross-cultural exchange through the soul of Japan. I don't just offer a service; I share a way of being. Forget the crowds. I’m here for you. Ready to reset? The tea is waiting.

Begin your culinary journey at the sushi counter with a professional sushi chef who shares the art of sushi-making. Master the essentials of handling sushi rice, selecting fresh ingredients, and traditional shaping techniques in a step-by-step guide designed for all skill levels. After crafting your own sushi, indulge in a delectable sushi course prepared by the chef, showcasing seasonal fish and high-quality ingredients. Transition to a serene tatami room for a traditional tea ceremony where you’ll witness the elegance of chanoyu. Learn the rich history and etiquette behind the ceremony, prepare your own matcha tea, and savor it alongside exquisite Japanese sweets.

At Maana, our renovation work has led us to a deep appreciation for Tsuchikabe—a distinctive blend of clay, rice straw, sand, and seaweed, crafted by skilled craftspeople called Sakans. In our workshop, let's discover this traditional craft by creating your own earthen wall art panel, adding a piece of Japan’s heritage to your home in a meaningful way.

Welcome to the World of Urushi Guided Tour of a 100+ Year-Old Lacquer Factory Experience urushi — Japan’s precious natural lacquer — at our historic refining factory, founded in 1909.The tour begins with a clear introduction to urushi and the urushi tree (excluding Fuki-Urushi Workshop). You’ll then watch skilled artisans refine raw sap (ki-urushi) into deep black and vivid vermilion urushi in the normally closed workshop, learning the delicate techniques and timeless craftsmanship.For more depth, join optional programs at “Und.” on the third floor: Visually rich talks on tree-planting, cultural preservation, and modern urushi use, followed by hands-on workshops — apply urushi to chopsticks or try traditional “Fuki-Urushi” (wipe-on) technique. Special guest sessions in kintsugi, urushi painting, woodworking, and natural/urushi dyeing are offered periodically.More than a tour — a rich journey blending tradition, sustainability, and contemporary craft.Feel authentic urushi at its source.

For centuries in Japan, fermented indigo dyeing has been used to create a spectrum of blue masterpieces, cherished for their symbolic and protective qualities. Dye your own textile (or use one provided by us), and learn about the cultural and historical context of this ancient technique.

Make two seasonal pantry staples using traditional fermentation and preservation techniques. Miso, shoyu, vinegars, pickles, sauces, and preserves are essential to the Japanese table. Directed by each microseason, fermentation and preservation have been practiced in Japan for centuries. Today, we know that fermented foods are essential for a healthy gut, supporting mental and physical well-being.

We invite you to learn and explore sashimi preparation techniques. Our guest chef will guide you through each step of the process, allowing you to personally handle the fish provided during this immersive experience. You will be responsible for the complete preparation. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of these cooking techniques, which you can replicate in your own kitchen. This is a hands-on experience, and your chef-guide will be there to assist and accompany you throughout the workshop. You'll conclude the course by savoring your own sashimi alongside rice and freshly ground wasabi.

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

Step into a 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse and enjoy a fully private cultural experience at Onishi Tsune Shoten, a renowned folding fan atelier with over a century of history. This exclusive, one-group-only program invites you to take part in the fan-painting process—one of the most artistic steps in traditional sensu making. Your hand-painted fan will be finished by skilled artisans and shipped to your home overseas, making it a truly personal and lasting keepsake. After painting, you'll try Tosenkyo, a refined fan-tossing game from the Edo period. Though simple in concept, this elegant pastime blends grace, strategy, and quiet focus. You'll learn how to play from the basics—how to hold, throw, and score—before enjoying a friendly match to test your skills. This program is conducted entirely for your group, ensuring an intimate and undisturbed encounter with Kyoto’s living traditions. Escape the crowds and enjoy a rare, hands-on cultural experience in a serene, historic setting.

Discover the elegance of Japanese tea culture in a private ceremony held in a charming machiya townhouse that has stood for over a century. This intimate setting offers a serene atmosphere where you'll learn about the rich history and philosophy of tea while savoring freshly prepared matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. Your knowledgeable host will guide you through the graceful ritual of the ceremony, explaining the significance of each step and answering any questions you may have, ensuring a meaningful connection to this timeless tradition.

Do you know the dyeing technique called “katazome”? Before the advent of Inkjet Printers and Laser Impression, kimono patterns were made, either by hand painting or using this stencil technique. Hand painting consists of drawing directly on the fabric, resulting in a unique piece. Katazome, on the other hand, is a technique created for mass production, and it has a very long history. Stencil engraving requires patience and precision in design. During this activity, however, you can discover a part of the world of kimono and make a photophore with this traditional technique.

Discover the enchanting Gion district of Kyoto, where historic charm meets cultural elegance. Stroll through narrow, stone-paved streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and teahouses. Savor a delightful lunch at the beloved restaurant “Karumiah,” known for its fresh, locally sourced dishes. Afterward, immerse yourself in the art of the Maiko, Kyoto's apprentice Geishas, renowned for their exquisite performances of dance and music. Enjoy a unique opportunity to meet a Maiko, appreciate her artistry, and partake in a traditional Matcha tea ceremony complemented by delicious sweets. This tour promises an authentic glimpse into the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage. - Explore the historic streets of Gion, Kyoto's traditional district - Enjoy lunch at a popular local restaurant featuring fresh ingredients - Meet and watch Maiko performances showcasing traditional arts - Participate in a Matcha tea ceremony along with sweet delicacies

Escape the crowds and discover a different side of Kyoto with a visit to a Kyoto City-designated Important Machiya and your choice of a guided walk through Fushimi Inari Shrine or Fushimi’s historic sake district. Begin at Shizuhamo, a beautifully preserved machiya with authentic tea rooms, seasonal ikebana, and traditional tea utensils. Guided by a certified tea instructor, grind matcha with a stone mill and prepare your own bowl while learning about Japanese tea culture. Afterward, choose between Fushimi Inari’s famous Senbon Torii gates, Okusha Hohaisho, and Omokaru Stone, or the traditional streets of Fushimi’s sake district and a sake-brewing museum. Your guide will share the history and stories of your chosen destination. Transportation and museum admission are not included. This small-group tour offers a personal introduction to Kyoto’s living cultural heritage beyond the usual sightseeing experience.

Private Maiko Cultural Experience (1–5 Guests) Immerse yourself in the elegance of Kyoto during this exclusive 90-minute program with a real Maiko. Enjoy two graceful dances on an authentic Noh stage, witness a traditional tea ceremony, and take part in ozashiki-asobi—delightful parlor games usually reserved for special guests. The program is guided by a former Maiko, who shares personal stories and cultural insights, with full English interpretation. This fully private experience offers an exclusive and unforgettable glimpse into Kyoto’s refined traditions. Photography is welcome, and each guest receives a small souvenir. The price reflects the exclusivity and personalized attention, with dedicated guidance, authentic performances, and all activities included. ★Enhance your experience by trying on a kimono for ¥7,700 per person. Simply message us with your number of guests, and we’ll send a payment link. Reservations must be made at least 5 days in advance.

Spend a moment to soothe your mind through tea at the Noh stage of Hyakusenshukan, where Kyoto's history and culture live on. By focusing on each gesture in silence, you can escape from the everyday and experience the comfort of facing yourself. The gestures in tea ceremony are not just movements, but meaningful actions to calm the mind. Under the guidance of the instructor, you will focus on your inner self through movements such as how to handle the tea bowl, how to breathe when making tea, and how to keep your mind in order. Feel your mind naturally calming down as you move slowly. We offer seasonal Japanese sweets from a Kyoto confectionery. Enjoy the delicate flavors of the sweets and the rich aroma of matcha, using all five senses to savor the moment. Take your time to enjoy a cup of tea while also appreciating the beauty of the sweets. Optional kimono dressing (+¥7,700 per person) is available by reservation before the program.

Your kids will have the opportunity to share fun experiences with local kids and learn more about Japanese culture. This is the only place in Kyoto where you can do this. You can enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto while your kids do fun activities with us.

・Historic Kyoto Machiya Setting: Enjoy a cozy 90-minute workshop in a traditional townhouse right near Kawaramachi, Nishiki Market, and Gion. ・Authentic Takasaki Craftsmanship: Paint on genuine Daruma dolls handcrafted by the renowned Takeuchi Daruma Shop from Gunma Prefecture. ・Symbolic & Custom Design: Choose from 6 vibrant colors, practice your brushwork, and paint crane/turtle facial motifs, kanji, or your own original ideas with black ink and gold paint. ・Cultural Connection & Souvenir: Learn the rich history behind the eye-painting tradition and take home your personalized lucky charm in a special ZEN CRAFTWORKS drawstring bag.

Begin by dressing in a beautiful kimono chosen from seasonal colors and patterns. With guidance from experienced staff, learn how to wear it properly while discovering the history, symbolism, and craftsmanship behind kimono design. Capture memorable photos against Kyoto’s timeless scenery before entering a serene tea room for a traditional tea ceremony, or chanoyu. Guided by a knowledgeable tea host, observe the precise preparation of matcha and learn about the ceremony’s principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. Then participate yourself, learning proper etiquette, from receiving and turning the tea bowl to enjoying freshly whisked matcha. Savor yatsuhashi, a beloved Kyoto sweet, alongside your tea. More than an introduction to traditional attire and tea, this experience offers an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s aesthetics, mindfulness, hospitality, and cultural heritage. Slow down, embrace Japanese tradition, and create lasting memories in the cultural heart of Japan.