Top Nagoya Art & Culture Classes

Do you know that Nagoya was once the center base of Samurai culture? During the Sengoku period in the 16th century when Samurai played an active role, the Owari district including Nagoya is known as the place where the most famous “Sengoku Daimyo”, powerful Japanese feudal lord, were from, such as “Oda Nobunaga”, “Toyotomi Hideyoshi” and “Tokugawa Ieyasu”. Why don’t you experience Japanese culture such as Japanese calligraphy and tea ceremony with English in a Kominka house in the city of Samurai culture “Nagoya”? We will welcome you at a special place where people actually used to live, not sightseeing facilities. Once you step inside, you will see the good old days of Japanese houses such as tatami mats, Shoji (paper walls) and traditional Japanese gardens which are rare today. With this quiet space, you can experience Japanese culture such as Japanese calligraphy and tea ceremony while understanding the history. This would be the special experience for your visit to Japan.

・Small classes under 5 people ・Single guests are welcome ・6-minute walk from the nearest station ・Prayer space for Muslims ・A plenty of time for the classes ・Allergy friendly ・Offering cultural experiences in a small Japanese house ・You can also visit the gallery of the owner, an up-and-coming calligraphy artist.

It is the only place in Japan where you can experience manga. There are tools for drawing manga in analog and digital, so anyone can freely draw manga. If you draw here too, you will feel like a professional cartoonist. It is fun!

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.

Enjoy Japanese calligraphy in Sakae, the lively heart of Nagoya, known for its great shopping and restaurants. This experience is perfect for beginners—our friendly instructor will guide you step by step. You’ll learn to write your favourite Japanese words or even your name in Japanese. Relax with traditional wagashi sweets and Japanese tea as you create your work in a calm, welcoming atmosphere. After the activity, feel free to explore Sakae for dining and shopping.

[The Experience] Learn from a master who leads international workshops in cities like Taipei. [Heritage & Vision] Raised in historic ARIMATSU, Kayoko has 10 years of experience sharing her artistic roots and Ikebana expertise with international guests. [Creative Session] Watch a master-level demonstration using seasonal materials. Learn professional techniques to handle live branches and flowers with care. Children are welcome ! We can tailor the ikebana lesson and snacks to suit younger guests, ensuring a memorable cultural experience for the whole family. [Your Work & Matcha] Create your unique masterpiece under Kayoko’s guidance. Afterward, enjoy MATCHA and Japanese sweets served with Nanbu Tekki ironware, surrounded by authentic Arimatsu Shibori craftsmanship. [Lunch and Walk] Conclude your session with lunch and a guided stroll through the historic streets of ARIMATSU to experience the authentic heart of Japanese culture.

The Art of Jet-Black: Nagoya Kuromontsuki Dyeing Discover the elegance of Nagoya Kuromontsuki Zome, a traditional craft born from the samurai era. This exclusive tour is led by the master of Yamakatsu Senko, a distinguished studio preserving the art of "jet-black" dyeing since the Edo period. You will go behind the scenes to learn from a certified craftsman before creating your own masterpiece. Using iconic motifs like the Golden Shachihoko, you will dye a fabric item to take home—a unique memento of Japanese spirit and refined formal culture.

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.

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.

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 - 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.

A 140-Year Heritage of Protection and Artistry Step inside a historic doll studio with deep ties to Atsuta Jingu Shrine to craft a "Kariroku," the legendary incense charm of the samurai. 　Under the expert guidance of the proprietor, you will create a personalized amulet designed to protect your home and bring good fortune. This unique hands-on experience offers a rare glimpse into the elegant world of Japanese dolls and the timeless traditions of warding off misfortune.

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!

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

[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.

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.