Nagoya: Create your own Kakejiku(Hanging scroll) at Temple

A visit to Nagoya doesn’t have to be all about castles and industry. For those craving a deeper, more peaceful connection with Japanese traditions, this experience offers a rare chance to step into a 700-year-old Buddhist temple and make something truly personal—a Kakejiku or hanging scroll. For $89 per person, you’ll enjoy hands-on calligraphy, a bit of chanting, and a relaxing tea ceremony—all in tranquil surroundings.

What makes this experience special? First, the chance to create your own calligraphy with guidance from a knowledgeable local guide, and second, the opportunity to unwind with matcha tea and Japanese sweets amid a peaceful garden. It’s a thoughtful way to connect with Japan’s spiritual and artistic roots.

The main consideration? This tour is designed for adults and seniors, with the option to purchase additional hanging scrolls on-site. If you’re traveling with children or looking for a more dynamic, less contemplative activity, this might not be the best fit.

This experience suits travelers interested in Japanese culture, calligraphy, or those seeking a mindful, authentic activity rather than a high-energy tour. If you enjoy arts, traditions, or simply want a serene break from sightseeing, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your Nagoya itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Experience a 700-year-old Buddhist temple with a local guide, gaining insight into Japanese spiritual traditions.
• Hands-on Creativity: Make your own Kakejiku by practicing traditional calligraphy, including Buddhist words and your signature in Kanji.
• Cultural Rituals: Participate in sutra chanting and learn about Buddha statues, enriching your understanding of Japanese Buddhism.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets in a peaceful garden setting, perfect for unwinding.
• Inclusive Experience: Designed mainly for adults and seniors, with options to purchase extra hanging scrolls on-site.
• Flexible Payment & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Location and First Impressions

This activity takes place in a traditional temple next to a shrine, surrounded by lush foliage—a quiet spot away from Nagoya’s bustling streets. Your guide, dressed in traditional kimono, will wait by the iconic red gate, setting the tone for an authentic Japanese experience. The setting immediately immerses you in a serene environment, ideal for reflection and learning.

The Temple’s Historical Significance

With over 700 years of history, this temple isn’t just a pretty backdrop. It’s a living site where Buddhist rituals are still practiced. Part of what’s so compelling about this experience is the chance to step into a space that’s witnessed centuries of prayer, meditation, and community life. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the statues and sutras, making the spiritual practices accessible without overwhelming.

The Chanting and Sutra Reading

The experience begins with removing your shoes and entering the main hall. You’ll join in chanting sutras—a calming, rhythmic practice that connects you to centuries of tradition. Don’t worry if you’re new to this; your guide carefully explains the proper way to participate. Many reviews mention how the sutra chanting added a meditative quality that enhanced the overall experience, fostering a sense of connection and calm.

Crafting Your Kakejiku

Next, the hands-on part: creating your own hanging scroll using traditional calligraphy. You’ll practice writing Buddhism words and your name in Kanji on special square paper (shikishi). This isn’t just a craft class; it’s a chance to explore a core aspect of Japanese artistry and spirituality. The guide’s patience and expertise make this accessible, even for beginners.

Once your calligraphy is complete, you’ll turn your piece into a Kakejiku, which you can take home as a meaningful souvenir. The cost of this hanging scroll is included for adults and seniors, but if you want extra copies, they’re available on-site for approximately 6,000 yen each—cash or credit card accepted.

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The Japanese Garden and Tea Ceremony

After the calligraphy, you’ll relax in a Japanese garden, enjoying the peaceful scenery. It’s a perfect setting for reflecting on what you’ve created. The experience concludes with a matcha tea and a sweet, allowing you to savor a traditional Japanese ritual. You can choose to sit on the floor or on a chair, depending on your comfort.

Many travelers comment on how soothing and authentic this part of the experience is. One reviewer noted, “At the end, I was able to enjoy the matcha tea ceremony,” which added a satisfying sense of closure and calm.

Practical Details and Considerations

The whole experience lasts around a couple of hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. The group size is likely small, given the personal nature of the activity, and the guide’s explanations are in English and Japanese. Booking is flexible—you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

Transportation to the temple is straightforward since it’s a designated meeting point next to a shrine, and the guide will meet you by the red gate. Keep in mind, this activity is not suitable for children, as it’s focused on adult-paced reflection and calligraphy.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews speak volumes. One guest praised the experience, saying, “Yoko Mitsui teaches a lot of interesting facts about the history of Buddhism in an informative way,” and appreciated the designing of the kakejiku as “a wonderful experience.” For $89, you’re not just buying a craft lesson; you’re gaining a cultural insight and a tangible artifact to remember your trip by.

While the inclusion of the matcha and sweets adds value, the real highlight is the chance to participate in age-old rituals and create something meaningful with your own hands. For those interested in arts, spirituality, or authentic Japanese traditions, this tour offers a well-rounded, contemplative experience.

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Are interested in Japanese calligraphy, Buddhism, or traditional arts.
• Want a calm, reflective activity rather than high-energy sightseeing.
• Appreciate authentic, immersive experiences in historic settings.
• Are traveling with adults or seniors who can sit comfortably on the floor or chairs.
• Seek a meaningful souvenir that ties into Japanese cultural and spiritual practices.

It’s less ideal for families with young children, or those looking for a fast-paced or highly social activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is mainly designed for adults and seniors. Children might find it less engaging, especially as it involves meditation, calligraphy, and contemplative activities.

How long does the experience last?
It typically takes around two hours, including chanting, calligraphy, and the tea ceremony, making it a nice, manageable activity for a half-day.

Can I purchase additional hanging scrolls?
Yes, you can buy extra kakejiku on-site for about 6,000 yen each. Payment can be made by cash or credit card.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a guide, sutra chanting, calligraphy experience, a shikishi paperboard, your kakejiku (for adults and seniors), and matcha with sweets.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is clearly specified next to a shrine, making it easy to find. The guide will meet you at the red gate.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The experience is offered in both English and Japanese, ensuring that most travelers can follow along comfortably.

For travelers seeking a quiet but meaningful way to connect with Japanese culture, this temple experience offers a blend of spiritual tradition, artistic skill, and tranquil surroundings. We appreciated the way the guide explained the rituals and the opportunity to create a personalized hanging scroll—a truly memorable souvenir. The peaceful garden and matcha added a relaxing close to the activity, making it a perfect choice for those wanting a reflective, culturally rich experience.

This tour is most valuable for those who enjoy arts and crafts, spiritual practices, or simply want a break from the hustle to enjoy some mindful quietude. It’s a genuine way to understand a deeper layer of Japanese tradition and come away with a handcrafted keepsake that embodies your visit.

In brief, this experience hits the sweet spot for cultural authenticity, artistic expression, and serene reflection. It’s worth considering if you want to step beyond typical sightseeing and truly engage with Japan’s spiritual heritage—plus, you’ll come away with a unique artifact that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful.

You can check availability for your dates here: