Kanazawa stands out as a city where traditional Japanese arts and crafts thrive. With its rich cultural fabric, it’s an ideal place to learn authentic skills directly from local artisans. Whether you’re interested in calligraphy, gold leaf, samurai history, or culinary arts, Kanazawa has something for every curious traveler. We especially love the Japanese calligraphy class for its meditative qualities and the gold leaf workshop that allows you to create a truly unique souvenir. From samurai swordsmanship to traditional sweets, these experiences provide a genuine taste of Kanazawa’s cultural craftsmanship.
Quick Overview
This list covers a wide range of hands-on workshops and classes. You’ll find options like Japanese calligraphy, sushi and traditional Japanese cooking, and Kintsugi pottery repair. For a deeper culture, there are private guided experiences such as tea ceremonies, kimono wearing, and gold leaf arts. Some tours, like the blacksmith workshop or maki-e lacquerware, provide insight into historic crafts still practiced today. Whether you’re after a short, focused class or a full-day cultural tour, this guide highlights the best of what Kanazawa offers.
1. Kanazawa “Near Ninja Temple” : Japanese Calligraphy Class
At number 1 is the Japanese calligraphy class, held in a real dojo near the Ninja Temple—an authentic experience that’s far from touristy shows. For just $44 per person, you’ll spend an hour with a Japanese master who guides you in creating your own calligraphy artwork. What makes this session stand out is its setting inside a traditional 100-year-old house, offering a deep connection to Japan’s spiritual and artistic roots. The instructor’s English support makes it accessible even if you don’t speak Japanese. It’s a mindful activity that quiets the mind and produces a tangible, personal keepsake.
Highlights include practicing real calligraphy, choosing a word meaningful to you, and experiencing the calm focus of brushwork in an authentic atmosphere. Reviews praise the quality and authenticity—”a real practice, not a tourist show.” It’s perfect for those seeking a meditative escape and appreciation for Japan’s cultural traditions.
Bottom Line: This class is ideal if you want a meaningful, hands-on introduction to Japanese calligraphy in a historic setting.
2. Kanazawa: traditional Japanese & sushi cooking classes
Number 2 on our list is the sushi and Japanese cooking class led by a chef with over 56 years of experience. For around $90, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours learning to make sushi, Jibuni (a Kanazawa specialty), and a Michelin-star-worthy egg roll, all with locally sourced ingredients. The class is praised for its interactive style and the use of AI live translation, making it easy for English speakers to follow along. Vegetarian options are available, adding to its inclusivity.
Participants rave about the quality of ingredients and the personalized guidance from Chef Nakata. One reviewer says, “We learned traditional Japanese dishes the correct way from a real chef, had fun, and enjoyed a delicious meal.” It’s a fantastic choice for culinary enthusiasts or families wanting a practical, hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: For a fun, authentic, and educational cooking experience, this class offers excellent value and tasty results.
3. Kanazawa: Samurai Swordsmanship Lesson at a rented temple
At number 3, you can learn the basics of samurai swordsmanship in a private lesson inside a historic temple setting. For $80, you’ll don a samurai kimono and train under a master instructor, receiving personalized coaching. The experience captures the essence of Japan’s samurai tradition, with the added thrill of handling a real sword.
The lesson’s intimate atmosphere makes it especially appealing to history buffs and martial arts fans. The instructor provides training videos and images afterward, so you can remember your “samurai moment.” Given the authentic environment, this experience feels genuinely immersive, and reviews highlight its unique and memorable nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking an active, cultural experience that combines history, martial arts, and local tradition.
4. Private Workshop: Traditional Kintsugi in Kanazawa
Number 4 features a Kintsugi workshop—the art of repair with gold—offering a hands-on experience in Kanazawa’s famed arts scene. For $106, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours learning the history and techniques of this 500-year-old craft. The workshop is especially appealing because you can repair your own broken pottery or create new pieces, making it a practical souvenir.
Participants rave about the knowledgeable, charming host who guides you through each step with ease. This experience is perfect for art lovers or anyone interested in restoration and mindfulness. The process involves working on various steps, including the final gold application, which takes weeks, but the workshop gives you hands-on skills and valuable insight.
Bottom Line: Great for creatively inclined travelers wanting a unique, meaningful craft with lasting results.
5. Kanazawa: Private Cultural Tour as Workshop
Number 5 is a personalized cultural tour that lets you choose activities like tea ceremonies, silk dyeing, gold leaf crafts, or kimono wearing. For $121, this day-long experience offers a tailored introduction to Japan’s traditional arts, guided by an expert. Your guide will explain the historical importance of each craft and help you participate actively.
This customizable approach makes it ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into Japanese culture with a personal touch. The experience ends with a special souvenir of your chosen activity, enhancing its value. Though only one review is available, it’s clear this tour suits those seeking a comprehensive, immersive day.
Bottom Line: Best for culturally curious travelers who want a bespoke, educational experience with a private guide.
$121 per person
6. Kanazawa Samurai Experience: a Japanese Kendo Workshop
Number 6 offers an active exploration of samurai martial arts through a Kendo workshop. Priced at $300, it’s the most expensive on the list, but it’s highly specialized. This experience emphasizes “Kind Enjoy Natural Design Open”, making it accessible for beginners and families alike. The instructor, who has led a junior high school team to victory, teaches fundamental Kendo techniques and provides an engaging, hands-on session.
While there are no reviews yet, the personalized instruction and historical context make it compelling. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, sports enthusiasts, or those wanting a physical introduction to Japan’s martial culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active, culturally curious families or individuals eager to try a traditional martial art with expert guidance.
$300.22 per person
7. Blacksmith Workshop Tour
Number 7 is a blacksmithing experience where you’ll get close to fire, hammering, and glowing iron. For $196, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours in a workshop that showcases tools over 80 years old used for metalwork. The visceral thrill of working with hot metal and seeing traditional machinery in action is the tour’s main attraction.
This workshop is perfect for those wanting a hands-on, sensory experience and a window into historic craftsmanship. While no reviews are available yet, the described setting promises a genuine, memorable encounter with ancient techniques.
Bottom Line: Suited for adventure travelers and craft lovers seeking a raw, tactile experience.
$196.01 per person
8. Gold Leaf Workshop and Culture Walk in Kanazawa
Number 8 invites you into Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf tradition. For $256, spend about 3 hours learning at Sakuda Gold Leaf and creating your own gold-leaf souvenir. The tour also includes a stroll through Higashi Chaya District, visiting shops and enjoying gold leaf soft-serve ice cream. It concludes with a visit to Utatsu Shrine, offering a peaceful view above the town.
This experience is especially appealing for those interested in crafting and local culture, combining hands-on artistry with a scenic walk. The inclusion of tastings and sightseeing makes it a full culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art lovers and cultural explorers wanting to combine crafting with sightseeing.
$256.28 per person
9. Private Japanese Sweets Making Class and Tea Ceremony
Number 9 offers a luxurious, immersive activity: making seasonal wagashi and participating in a traditional tea ceremony. For $499, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours in a historic house, guided by a confectionery chef trained by the Omotesenke school.
This class provides a deep cultural connection, blending culinary arts with mindfulness. It’s ideal for food lovers or those interested in Japanese aesthetics and tradition. The workshop emphasizes participation, making it more memorable than just a tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious foodies or anyone wanting an authentic, participatory experience in Japanese sweets and tea.
$499.41 per person
10. Maki-e Lacquerware Workshop Kanazawa Cultural Experience
Number 10 is a rare chance to try your hand at Maki-e lacquerware, a traditional Japanese craft. For $101, you’ll learn about the art’s history and techniques, working directly with an artisan. The experience includes interaction with the artist and is designed for those interested in fine arts and craftsmanship.
This workshop offers a personalized glimpse into Kanazawa’s art scene. Participants leave with their own handmade lacquerware piece, providing both practical skill and a special souvenir.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art enthusiasts wanting a personalized, culturally rich activity.
$101.27 per person
11. Samurai Swordsmanship Lesson at a rented temple
Similar to tour #3 but priced slightly lower at $77.96, this private sword lesson gives you a chance to wear a kimono and learn fundamental sword techniques from a qualified instructor. Conducted at an ancient temple, it offers an authentic setting for those interested in the samurai legacy.
It’s perfect if you want a focused, intimate experience and a tangible connection to Japan’s martial past. The environment enhances immersion, making it more than just a class.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs and adventure travelers wanting a hands-on samurai experience.
12. Tenugui Woodblock Dyeing Workshop in Kanazawa
Number 12 offers a hands-on dyeing experience with traditional woodblock printing. For $72.28, you’ll spend 1.5 hours working on creating your own design on tenugui cloth, guided by a master artisan. This craft is a unique aspect of Kanazawa’s arts scene, blending history and craftsmanship.
You’ll engage with authentic tools and learn about Japanese textile traditions. The workshop also provides an opportunity for cultural exchange with the artisan.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft lovers and design enthusiasts interested in Japanese textile arts.
$72.28 per person
13. Wagashi Workshop and Tea Ceremony in Kanazawa
Last but not least, this 3-hour workshop combines making beautiful wagashi with learning traditional tea etiquette. For $166.61, you’ll participate in hands-on sweets crafting and a serene tea ceremony, guided by a local expert.
This experience emphasizes mindfulness and aesthetics, offering a full culture. It’s suitable for those who enjoy culinary artistry and want to deeply engage with Japan’s refined traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for creative foodies seeking a relaxing, meaningful cultural activity.
$166.61 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop in Kanazawa
When deciding among these options, consider your interest focus, budget, and time available. For example, if you want a deep cultural dive, the private cultural tour (link) offers a tailored experience. For culinary enthusiasts, the sushi class (link) or wagashi and tea ceremony (link) are ideal.
If you’re interested in crafts and artistic techniques, the Kintsugi (link), gold leaf (link), or lacquerware (link) workshops are excellent choices. For more active experiences, the samurai swordsmanship (link) and kendo (link) offer engaging physical activities.
Booking early is advisable, especially for specialized workshops like blacksmithing or private guided tours, which tend to fill quickly. Think about whether you want a short class or a full-day experience, and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Kanazawa offers an incredible variety of hands-on workshops that deepen your understanding of traditional Japanese arts and culture. If you’re after a meditative activity, the calligraphy class tops the list. For food lovers, the sushi and wagashi experiences deliver both skills and cultural insight. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Kintsugi and lacquerware workshops, while history buffs can dive into samurai swordsmanship.
No matter your interests, booking a workshop or class in Kanazawa guarantees a meaningful, memorable experience that goes beyond sightseeing. Be sure to reserve your spot early and come prepared to get your hands dirty—Japan’s craftsmanship is worth it.