Top Tokyo Painting Classes

Step back into the golden age of manga and experience how legendary artists once worked. This beginner-friendly class is supervised by a professional manga artist and is easy to follow, even if it’s your first time drawing manga. You’ll feel like a mangaka from the 1970s—the era of Osamu Tezuka—by using traditional tools such as dip pens and screen tones. Start by practicing inking techniques, learn how to draw classic manga-style hair, and apply screen tones just as professionals did before digital tools existed. As the class progresses, you’ll move from guided practice to creating your own manga drawing from a blank page. Enjoy the satisfaction of completing your artwork by hand and take your finished piece home as a memorable keepsake. This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone who has ever thought, “I want to draw manga” or “I want to learn professional techniques from the past.”

In this workshop, we use authentic paints, tools, and materials that are nonetheless easy for beginners to handle. You will have the opportunity to create paints using traditional methods and then use them to paint, as well as experience adding brilliant decorative touches using gold leaf techniques. Additionally, our introduction to the history and concepts of *Nihonga* (Japanese-style painting) will satisfy your intellectual curiosity with surprising facts and fascinating anecdotes.

Create your own colorful maneki-neko in a painting workshop in Asakusa and Take home a unique handmade souvenir from Japan to remember your trip

Experience Traditional Japanese Calligraphy! This workshop is open to everyone, from complete beginners to those with prior calligraphy experience. Under the guidance of a professional calligraphy instructor, you’ll unlock your creativity and enjoy a unique cultural experience rooted in Japanese tradition. In this workshop, you will: ・Calm your mind by grinding solid ink with an inkstick ・Learn basic brush techniques using practice kanji to prepare for your main piece ・Transform your name into kanji ・Complete your favorite kanji artwork and take it home as a special souvenir ・Optionally write your kanji directly onto a T-shirt to create a one-of-a-kind original design

Artistic travelers and anyone interested in Japanese pop culture will enjoy a small-group manga- and anime-drawing class with a professional artist. Whether you draw regularly or are a complete beginner, your instructor will walk you through the process step-by-step and teach you new skills. Learn to come up with manga/anime ideas, sketch, add color, and more.

Deepen your understanding of Japanese crafts with this private calligraphy lesson in Asakusa. Start by watching a short video introducing the history and meaning of Japanese calligraphy, then practice essential brushstrokes with a teacher. Customize a t-shirt and write a letter using traditional techniques to create unique souvenirs to take home.

Japan is known for its stunning calligraphy, and if you’ve ever been curious about this ancient art, this hands-on lesson is a fantastic way to explore it. Led by an expert calligraphy artist, you learn to write your name in Japanese kanji, then create your own personalized calligraphy t-shirt to take home. The workshop includes traditional workwear, ink grinding, and brush techniques for a complete experience.

Turn something old into something new during this lesson in the Japanese art of "Kintsugi," the practice of repairing broken pottery, and there's a chance you'll get to see Master Taku on the day of your visit. Stemming from a Japanese belief that breakage and repair are part of the history of an object, rather than a reason to throw them away, your class involves repairing damaged items (plates are provided; personal items are not allowed) with lacquer mixed with gold. Don a "samue" as you refinish one traditional pottery item, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Japanese aesthetics and a unique souvenir.

Begin your experience with an introduction to the program. Then, choose your design from famous Ukiyo-e prints by masters like Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige. Next, use colored pencils or markers to freely add color. Blend traditional style with your own creativity to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Take your finished artwork home in a clear file, perfect as a travel souvenir. Discover the joy of Japanese art in a relaxing, hands-on session that welcomes beginners and enthusiasts alike. Our friendly guidance ensures you feel confident as you explore vibrant colors and timeless designs. This is more than an art activity—it’s a cultural experience that sparks creativity and leaves you with a unique keepsake or a thoughtful gift. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in tradition while creating something truly personal!

You can also choose experiences other than Sumi-e (ink painting), so please choose what you want to do beforehand. We will ask you by e-mail. In case of Sumi-e While explaining the tools, we will draw a basic Sumi-e bamboo. You will also learn how to look at Sumi-e. In the case of watercolor painting The instructor will choose a photo of a Japanese landscape (Mt. Fuji) as the subject for a landscape painting. The instructor will teach you how to paint your own favorite scenery. For ballpoint pen drawings Participants will be asked to draw a landscape drawing using a photo of a Japanese landscape chosen by the instructor as the subject. You will learn shortcuts for rough finishing. In the case of colored pencil drawings The instructor will teach you how to draw realistically using colored pencils. This is done on postcard size paper.

Immerse yourself in the art of Japanese calligraphy (Shodo) during a one-hour workshop in Roppongi, led by a PhD-holding master calligrapher. Begin with a live demonstration showcasing traditional brush techniques before diving into ancient scripts like Tensho and Reisho, learning about their evolution from Chinese origins to Japan's unique style. Engage in hands-on practice writing meaningful kanji, such as “夢 (Dream)” or “和 (Harmony),” and create a stunning piece of art on a shikishi board or fan. With an English-speaking assistant to guide you through cultural insights, this experience culminates with a photo opportunity and your own handcrafted artwork, a personal connection to Japanese heritage.

Welcome to a private Japanese calligraphy experience in the heart of Shibuya, where tradition, creativity, and a calm atmosphere come together. Led by a friendly and knowledgeable Japanese instructor, this beginner-friendly workshop offers a relaxed and authentic introduction to Japanese calligraphy. You’ll start by learning the basics through simple but important brush practice, then create your own finished piece to take home as a meaningful souvenir. More than just an art activity, this experience is a peaceful and memorable way to enjoy Japanese culture while making something truly your own. ・Enjoy authentic Japanese calligraphy in central Shibuya ・Create your own finished calligraphy piece to take home ・Learn in a calm, welcoming setting with a friendly local instructor

Authentic Japanese Calligraphy Experience in Asakusa Discover the beauty of Japanese calligraphy and create your own unique masterpiece. What will you Do? Learn the History – Watch a short video about the history of Japanese language and calligraphy. Master the Brush – Practice essential brush techniques and the basic 8strokes. Write Your Own Word – Choose your name in Japanese or a favorite kanji and bring it to life! Make your original folding fan– A perfect souvenir to remember your Japan trip! Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and your own creativity!

Veer away from the well-trodden tourist activities in Tokyo and try your hand at something a little different—fan painting. With the help of an instructor, you get tips on how to make your fans pop as well as a fresh insight into the role fans have played in Japanese culture and history.

Tokyo Kimono Experience We offer traditional Japanese hairstyling, makeup, kimono dressing, commemorative photography, and location photo shoots. We are now hosting a special hands-on Tokyo Yuzen color-painting experience, one of the most popular Tokyo Yuzen style activities. Under the supervision of a Tokyo hand-painted Yuzen artist and workshop, participants will add colors to a pre-drawn traditional design and create a one-of-a-kind original tote bag — the only one in the world. The experience is held every Tuesday at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Each session is a 2-hour course with a maximum of 6 participants. We warmly welcome everyone — from solo guests to friends, families, and groups. We look forward to having you join us!

Engage in the art of manga illustration at Manga School , where professional manga artists share their expertise from Japan’s comic scene. Over a 2-hour session in a small group, learn essential techniques like sketching, inking, and applying screentones. Discover the unique aspects of Japanese character design, explore how facial proportions convey personality, and craft your very own manga hero. All materials are included, allowing you to focus entirely on creativity. At the end of the class, take home your original artwork, a personal memento of your artistic journey.

Create your own short anime in Japan, the home of world-famous animation. This beginner-friendly workshop teaches the basic principles of animation through a simple stop-motion method. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll bring your ideas to life using your own smartphone or tablet, then take home your finished video as a unique souvenir to share with family, friends, or on social media.

Create your own handmade souvenir while learning a new skill and gaining greater insight into Japanese culture during a private calligraphy session. Choose whether you want to paint your Japanese kanji character onto a t-shirt, a lantern, or a traditional folding umbrella. Your private instructor tells you all you need to know to create beautiful calligraphy, plus enjoy Japanese sweets and green tea while you work.

Design and Create a Book/Notebook Cover and reversible Bookmark/Pen holder that is completely unique to you! If you would like to book the workshop more than 3 person I could arrange to rent a workshop cafe space which is 5min walk from my Atelier.

- Create your own Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat), a traditional Japanese symbol of good fortune - Experience a hands-on Maneki-neko painting workshop in Gotokuji, a neighborhood associated with the origins of this iconic cultural symbol - Suitable for all ages and skill levels, with no prior experience required - Personalize your Lucky Cat using specialized paint pens and complimentary decorative stickers - Take your finished creation home with you on the same day as a unique souvenir or gift

Go beyond sightseeing an immerse yourself in Japanese culture with this small-group calligraphy and zen mindful journey workshop in Tokyo. Practice zen meditation, learn some practical Japanese words, then experience the art of Japanese calligraphy, and create a unique souvenir of your name or a favorite phrase in kanji written on a hanging scroll.

Looking for a unique experience in Tokyo? We recommend our private calligraphy workshops! Our private calligraphy workshops are perfect for families looking for a fun rainy-day activity in Tokyo! Our instructors will come to your hotel, making it easy for even busy travelers to experience calligraphy! The instructor will convert your name into kanji on the spot. Try writing your favorite characters or kanji with a brush! You can even have your writing turned into a temporary tattoo! We can also write on your T-shirt with a brush.

“A once-in-a-lifetime encounter “ichigo ichie (一期一会)”. Discover the unique beauty of kimono.” Every kimono is truly one of a kind. No two are ever the same. Each piece holds its own story and beauty, waiting to be discovered in that fleeting, perfect moment. In Japan, we have a saying: ichigo ichie (一期一会). It means “treasure each encounter as if it happens only once in a lifetime,” capturing the spirit of cherishing the present moment. Among more than 200 antique kimonos, the one that catches your eye is your ichigo-ichie, a unique encounter between you and the fabric. Turn this precious moment into a one-of-a-kind work of art, and savor the special experience. As you transform your chosen kimono into a piece of art, you are not only preserving legacy but also creating a deeply personal memory that will stay with you. Turn this precious moment into a one-of-a-kind work of art, and savor the experience of meeting something and someone you’ll never meet again in quite the same way.