Kyoto : calligraphy experience 【OKADA Japan culture center】
- Beginner-friendly Japanese calligraphy workshop in central Kyoto
- 30 second walk from the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop.
- Learn kanji basics, brush techniques, and stroke order
- Write with traditional fude brush and sumi ink
- Create your own calligraphy on a shikishi board to take home
- Optional: upgrade to sensu (¥1,500) or uchiwa fan (¥800)
- Guided by experienced instructors—perfect for all levels
- A peaceful, hands-on cultural experience and unique souvenir
What to expect
Japanese Calligraphy Experience – Just 30 Seconds walk from the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop.
Try Japanese calligraphy in a relaxed and friendly setting. You’ll learn a little about the history of kanji, practice using a traditional brush, and create your own calligraphy to take home.
It’s easy to follow and enjoyable for all ages. Come with friends, family, or join solo and have fun together.
As a fun extra, you can also write on a sensu (folding fan) or uchiwa (round fan) and take it home as a unique souvenir.
A simple, creative way to enjoy a Japanese culture during your time in Kyoto.
※Kimono is not included in the plan.














Reviews
Wow! This was the most wonderful experience. It was very a traditional, authentically Japanese experience. Exactly what we wanted. It was relaxing and also informative. We had numerous practices before applying what we had learnt to our final pieces. Both hosts were so kind and warm, we are so grateful for our Japanese calligraphy experience. I would highly recommend this!
Our Kyoto calligraphy experience was fantastic! The ladies at the Okada Japan culture center did an outstanding job of instructing us in the history of the Japanese written language during a short introduction to Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana. Then we learned how the ancient Japanese made ink and tried our hands at it. The on to our actual instruction in writing with brush and ink. What fun!! We each then chose a character we thought represented us and began practicing it. The two instructors talked us through it and actually helped with the early brush strokes so we could better learn the technique. The instructors made it a LOT of fun!! A thoroughly rewarding and fun experience! I would highly recommend it to anyone even thinking about it! We did a lot in Kyoto, and this was truly the highlight! instructor: very friendly and knowledgeable experience: outstanding
highly recommend! the building is so lovely and we learned a lot. so fun and interactive
The instructors were very attentive, and it was a very calming experience. We were able to practice our calligraphy and see our progress! My 8-year-old daughter loved it and wasn't bothered by the instruction being in English!
We had an amazing time today! it's a fantastic cultural experience without feeling touristy - it happened to be only me and my wife in the class! The senseis were very knowledgeable with fantastic English, and you get a piece of art to take home!
We had an amazing time at Kyoto calligraphy experience. We thoroughly enjoyed learning about the writing style, being taught the traditional ways of calligraphy and having 1 on 1 help to write our choice of Kanji. The room and environment was also so inviting and calming. We'd highly recommend 🙂
Absolutely worth experiencing! Thanks to the warm and patient support of the instructors, I had an incredibly fulfilling time. About 70 minute session begins with an explanation of the meaning and origins of kanji, followed by choosing a character to write and practicing brush strokes. There’s plenty of practice time, so the overall satisfaction is very high! It can be challenging, but that makes it all the more enjoyable. At the end, you can have your work mounted on a board to take home as a beautiful keepsake. The instructors are always by your side, offering helpful tips on how to write more beautifully. I would love to join again!
The experience was cery fun and interesting. They taught us the history and the stroke by stroke pattern. They said the way I handle my brush was very Kawaii :)
I had such an amazing time! The instructor was incredibly kind and patient, and explained everything step by step, so even as a complete beginner I could create something beautiful. Writing with a traditional brush and ink felt so special it really made me feel connected to Japanese culture. The studio was peaceful and full of charm, and I even got to take my calligraphy home as a unique souvenir. If you’re in Kyoto and want to try something truly authentic, this is an unforgettable experience you shouldn’t miss!
Had a wonderful time during this workshop. The brief history of calligraphy was very interesting. The staff was welcoming and attentive. It was a private lesson, which was a real treat. I enjoyed this introduction so much that I bought myself a shodo kit. Thank you very much, and best wishes to the team! ☀️
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