Kyoto

15 Best Kyoto Craft Workshops

The artisan benches open to visitors: chopsticks finished in Gion, knives forged at a working blacksmith, calligraphy in a temple hall and roketsu dyeing in the textile quarter. A thousand years of craft guilds, one afternoon at a time.

1.Gion Chopstick Making Workshop in Kyoto

Create your own pair of traditional Japanese chopsticks in Kyoto. This engaging workshop is perfect for those interested in craftsmanship and authentic experiences.

Most Popular★ 5.0

“An exceptional experience to learn traditional Hashi (chopsticks) making. You use a traditional Kana (knife block) to carve the chopsticks and you can even customize an engraving for a personal keep sake of your time in Kyoto. Our host (PatricRead more”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

3.Authentic knife making experience at a blacksmith in Kyoto

Experience authentic Japanese blacksmithing in Kyoto with a knife-making class led by expert Mao. Create a practical knife and learn traditional techniques in a small group setting.

★ 4.8

“It was a great experience, the team was very enthusiastic and helpful! Location is outside Kyoto but right to a train station.”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

4.Kyoto: Japanese Traditional Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony

Experience Kyoto's culture with a hands-on sweets making class and tea ceremony for just $19; learn traditional skills in a friendly, authentic setting.

★ 4.4

“This is an amazing experience very much on target for something that I wanted to do in Japan, pro tip. You don’t need the helper fee unless you have a child with you.”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

5.Kyoto: Calligraphy class at Buddhist temple in city center

Discover Kyoto’s authentic side with a calligraphy class inside a historic Buddhist temple. Create your own artwork, learn Japanese culture, and take a meaningful souvenir home.

★ 5.0

“The class was FANTASTIC! Both the teacher and the translator were excellent and we learnt so much during our 70 minute session. Would highly recommend the experience :)”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

7.Kyoto: Beginner Knife Sharpening & Handle Fitting Workshop

Discover the art of Japanese knife making in Kyoto with this hands-on workshop. Sharpen your skills, fit handles, and take your custom knife home.

★ 4.9

“The experience was fun and informative! The makers are patient and explain things really well. The knifes and beautiful and the handles can be engraved. Finding the shop was a little tough because it was in the busy Nishiki Market area. Overall, wonderful experience!”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

10.Kyoto: Local Home Visit and Japanese Calligraphy Class

Experience authentic Japanese calligraphy and visit a Kyoto home near Nijo Castle with a knowledgeable guide. A relaxing, cultural activity perfect for curious travelers.

★ 5.0

“Aya was a wonderful teacher. She explained the history of calligraphy well and answered all of our questions. We got to practice with her a few times and she gave us constructive direction about how to improve. She was a wonderful host and still went…”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

11.Kyoto: Traditional Yuzen Dyeing Experience

Discover Kyoto's traditional art with a hands-on Yuzen dyeing experience. Create your own silk fabric souvenir in an intimate, authentic workshop setting.

★ 4.8

“It was a great experience. We were able to see a traditional workshop, admire the works of a master and then create beautiful silk paintings ourselves with the help of the master. We also had a very nice translator”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

13.Authentic Ninja Weapon Making Experience

Discover the authentic ninja weapon-making experience in Kyoto, where you can craft real weapons, enjoy tranquil gardens, and learn from passionate guides.

★ 5.0

“Got this experience for our twin 18 year old boys and they loved it! We were able to put the kunai's in the checked baggage on the trip home. The boys had a great experience!”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

14.Private Japanese Calligraphy Class in Kyoto

Experience authentic Japanese culture with a private Kyoto calligraphy class. Learn brush techniques, create your own artwork, and take home a special keepsake.

★ 5.0

“I’m here with a tour group & was thrilled to have the chance to break away from the group one afternoon & sign up for this class. So far, this experience has been one of my favorites from my entire trip to Japan! Aya is…”

Check Availability →Read our full review →

More Kyoto Craft Workshops