Top Japan Classes & Workshops

Practice the Japanese metalwork craft of tankin during this private ring-making workshop in Tokyo. Customize your piece by choosing the material, thickness, and texture as you use special hammers and tools to form the shape. Get feedback from your instructor as you try out the technique on your one-of-a-kind souvenir.

This activity is unique because it blends hands on artistry with deep cultural meaning. You won’t just repair pottery you’ll learn the Kintsugi philosophy of finding beauty in imperfections, using real urushi lacquer and gold powder to highlight the cracks rather than hide them. Guided by a skilled Tokyo artisan in a peaceful Asakusa studio, you’ll create a one of a kind piece that reflects mindfulness, renewal, and Japanese aesthetics an experience you won’t find in ordinary craft classes.

Immerse yourself in samurai history and culture with this small-group samurai experience at a traditional samurai house in Kyoto. Under the guidance of an expert sword instructor, learn the philosophies of Bushido, the "Way of the Warrior;" handle a real martial arts sword; and take part in a Zen meditation session.

Kyudo is a Japanese martial art based on shooting an arrow from a Japanese bow to a target to reach a complete focus of mind and body. The main difference of kyudo and western archery is that, in kyudo, every movement follows a traditional routine that pays respect to the equipment and to the opponent. You will come to the archery range and dress in an authentic kyudo uniform, which will include dogi—the upper wear—and hakama—the lower wear. I'll give a brief explanation about the art of kyudo as well as instructions and demonstrations. With the knowledge you'll gain, you will learn to shoot arrows at the target. You'll also understand the fun and challenging aspect of the sport, particularly while wearing the traditional hakama and armor. Usually in kyudo, you are not allowed to pull the arrow unless you master the basics. But during our lesson, you will be able to enjoy the real kyudo experience even as a complete beginner. It will be a great time if you are looking for a nice photo or movie to show to your friends.

Guests can punch, shape, file, and polish their own rings from scratch in a hands-on workshop experience, creating a truly personal piece of jewelry. Whether crafting matching rings for couples, meaningful keepsakes with friends or family, or a unique design for themselves, each participant takes home a one-of-a-kind handcrafted treasure as a lasting memory of Tokyo.

Instead of buying chopsticks from a shop, create a handmade pair during this traditional woodworking experience in Tokyo. Learn to shape raw wood using a Japanese hand plane, with step-by-step guidance on techniques that you wouldn’t pick up from a video. Then, finish at the end with a beautiful souvenir to remember your time in Japan.

Skip the more generic kimono rental services in Tokyo by choosing this small-group experience. Tailor your outfit to your tastes by choosing from a variety of vintage kimonos. Your selection will be customized to your size, you'll learn how to wear it, and you'll take photos in the final product.

Instead of buying souvenir chopsticks from a shop, this hands-on experience lets you make your own from scratch. Learn specialist techniques, including how to use a traditional Japanese "kanna" hand plane, how to smooth the surface, and how to finish the wood with natural oil. Crafted from beautiful Japanese wood, the chopsticks make a meaningful souvenir to keep for years to come.

Try your hand at traditional Japanese cooking and learn how to make ramen from scratch, as well as two types of gyoza. This small-group cooking class in Nishinomiya gives you hands on experience and the chance to learn cooking techniques that can easily be replicated back home. After preparing your meal, you will enjoy the fruits of your labor together, with a seasonal dessert.

Enjoy a world of quiet elegance at Nishiki Orizuruya. All plans include kimono rental (with free hair styling for women) and are guided in English. 1. Authentic Tea Ceremony: After a captivating demonstration, learn to whisk your own matcha using a traditional bamboo whisk. Your prepared tea is paired with exquisite, seasonal Wagashi (traditional sweets) sourced from a celebrated 100-year-old Kyoto confectionery shop. 2. Tea Ceremony & Calligraphy: Combine the meditative art of tea with the flow of brush and ink. After savoring your matcha and sweets, learn to write your favorite kanji using a brush and ink. A great chance to create a personal keepsake. 3. Tea Ceremony & Guided Nishiki Market Tour: Enjoy the complete tea ceremony experience, then set out on a culinary adventure. Explore the bustling stalls of "Kyoto’s Kitchen" (Nishiki Market), hidden local shrines, and ancient specialty shops to discover the deep roots of Kyoto's food culture.

Discover the culinary traditions of Japan in Osaka, one of Japan’s best food cities, on this small-group cooking lesson at a local's home. Learn how to prepare popular Japanese dishes including *okonomiyaki* (savory pancakes), *takoyaki* (deep fried octopus balls), and miso soup. You can expand your Japanese cuisine knowledge, and best of all, eat your creations when you’re finished.

Create your own original pair of jeans using premium Okayama denim in the heart of Tokyo’s iconic Harajuku district. This hands-on workshop at Daruma Jeans lets you customize key details such as patches, buttons, and rivets while learning about Japanese denim craftsmanship and culture. Guided by experienced staff in a beginner-friendly environment, you’ll gain insight into how authentic Japanese jeans are crafted while exploring the connection between Harajuku’s street fashion culture and Japanese denim craftsmanship. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and friends, this unique Tokyo experience combines fashion, creativity, and Japanese craftsmanship in one memorable activity. Take home a one-of-a-kind pair of jeans made by you — not just a souvenir, but a wearable memory from Japan. “Made in Japan. Crafted by You.”

Create a unique piece of jewelry by crafting a ring from vintage Japanese coins that tell a story of the nation's history. Choose from coins dating back to the Meiji, Taishō, or Shōwa eras, and transform them into a stunning ring through a hands-on process of shaping, hammering, and polishing. With expert artisans guiding you, even beginners can confidently navigate the crafting journey and leave with a one-of-a-kind treasure that embodies Japan's rich heritage.

Immerse yourself in the world of sumo at Sapporo's first sumo show restaurant, where history and culinary delight meet. Learn the ancient rules of sumo and witness expert demonstrations from retired wrestlers. Feel the thrill as you step into the ring for your own match, limited to a select few. Savor a hearty Chanko-nabe prepared by former sumo athletes, and enjoy an intimate view of the Dohyo from your seat. Each guest leaves with a souvenir photo alongside the wrestlers, making this a unique celebration of Japanese culture that you won’t forget.

When visiting Tokyo, don't just eat sushi: learn how to make it. This culinary experience takes place just steps from Senso-ji Temple, in the heart of the traditional Asakusa neighborhood, and immerses you in Japanese culinary culture. Learn how how to prepare authentic sushi and rolls, then sit down to enjoy the fruits of your effort with your classmates.

What makes this experience truly unique is the opportunity to create a functional Japanese knife through a hands-on process guided by a local craftsman in historic Asakusa. Rather than simply observing, guests actively take part in shaping and refining their own blade using whetstones, gaining firsthand insight into the precision, patience, and craftsmanship that define Japanese knife-making. The small-group setting allows for personal instruction in a calm, welcoming workshop, making the experience accessible to beginners while remaining deeply authentic. Guests leave not only with a handcrafted knife, but with a genuine connection to one of Japan’s most respected artisan traditions.

Make the most of your time in Kyoto by combining two classic experiences: wearing a kimono and taking part in an authentic tea ceremony. Led by a professional tea master, learn about the tools and traditions behind preparing Japanese green tea. To enhance the experience, kimono rental is included, offering an atmospheric way to appreciate this centuries-old tradition. Tickets must be exchanged at the starting point before entry.

Japanese kitchen knives are among some of the world’s finest, and this hands-on workshop in Asakusa shows you how they’re made. Pick your blade type and size, then sharpen it under the watchful eye of a master craftsman, before engraving your name in Japanese on the magnolia handle.

Up to 6 people can join the experience. However, if you don’t mind waiting a little, we may be able to accommodate groups of more than 6. Please feel free to contact us for details. Original Chopstick-Making Experience Create your own pair of chopsticks from start to finish. Shape the wood, smooth it with sandpaper, and finish with natural oil for a beautiful shine. The chopsticks you make are yours to take home—a unique souvenir and a lasting memory of your time in Japan. About Chopsticks and Japan Chopsticks are an important part of Japanese food culture. They have been used in Japan for more than 2,000 years. Japanese chopsticks are usually made of wood and have a thin, pointed tip, which makes it easy to pick up small pieces of food. In Japan, people often give chopsticks as gifts because they represent good relationships and connection between people. We hope this chopstick-making experience becomes a wonderful memory for you！

Experience the traditional Japanese art of Kintsugi in a quiet workshop near Gion and Kawaramachi in Kyoto. In this hands-on experience, you will repair cracked or chipped ceramic pieces using lacquer and gold powder, transforming broken pottery into something beautiful and unique. With guidance from an experienced instructor, you will carefully work on bowls or plates while learning the basic techniques of Kintsugi. Rather than hiding imperfections, this traditional method celebrates them as part of an object’s history and character. During the workshop, you will also learn about the history of Kintsugi and the Japanese philosophy that values imperfection and mindfulness. Your finished piece will become a one-of-a-kind souvenir and a meaningful reminder of your time in Kyoto, offering a calm and authentic introduction to Japanese culture.

Rather than simply teaching you to make sushi, this Tokyo cooking class gives you the full Japanese culinary experience. You’ll master the art of rolling rice and seasoning your fillings under the guidance of a professional chef, as well as toasting with sake and finishing by whisking matcha. The experience now includes a sushi chef uniform. Plus, you can select from multiple start times to suit your schedule.

Experience the samurai experience in a museum-like place with lots of armor on display! You will choose your favorite kimono and hakama, change into a samurai costume, and learn how to use a sword from a samurai. You will learn how to draw a sword, hold a sword, swing a sword, and retract a sword. After learning basic sword usage, they practice a simple chambara (sword fight). Then we will try to exterminate bad guys to the music! You can take videos with your smart phone, take pictures with the samurai, and have a great samurai time. The teachers are authentic teachers who have appeared in major Japanese dramas and movies. Since you have come all the way to Japan on a trip, you will have a wonderful experience of Samurai culture! The dojo has many weapons on display, including swords and spears. You will also find armor on display. Samurais are waiting for you in a space that does not seem modern. ・One person can also join the tour. ・Same-day reservations are also possible.

Practice the time-honored arts of samurai swordsmanship during this hands-on Kendo workshop. Work one-on-one with an experienced Kendo instructor, with all equipment and armor included. Learn practical skills and put your new moves to the test during a tournament-style combat game. All experience levels are welcome, and participants receive bottled water and a souvenir Kendo towel.