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

“The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Making my own chopsticks was a wonderful way to experience Japanese culture, and it also turned out to be a perfect souvenir to bring Read more”

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2.Kyoto: Ninja Weapon Making Class at a Historic Mansion

Experience traditional ninja weapon-making in Kyoto’s historic Machiya house. Create your own shuriken or kunai with expert guidance in 2.5 hours.

★ 4.8

“The kids loved the interactive session and leaving with their own made ninja weapons tonight. Great fun with a history lesson too. Amazing how we were able to custom engrave kanji on our weapons. Thank you!”

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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

“So much fun making the sweets and learning the traditional way to drink matcha. A great way to get a glimpse of some Japanese culture. Great value for money and a fun time!”

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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

“We definitely recommend this activity, it was very fun and we learned a lot! The teacher and her apprentice were both very helpful and nice. They gave us individual tips while we were practicing writing our names and even took some pictures for us. We…”

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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 guides were friendly, funny and attentive. the Knifes look and feel amazing. The process was interesting and relaxing. Overall a fantastic experience!”

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8.Kyoto: Japanese Calligraphy Class

Discover Kyoto’s art and culture with a hands-on Japanese calligraphy class near Kyoto Station. Learn, create, and take home authentic souvenirs for $54.

★ 4.8

“Rena led our Japanese calligraphy class with exceptional skill and warmth. She struck a perfect balance between explaining the intricate complexities of the language and making the art of calligraphy feel accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Her teaching style was patient, encouraging, and deeply knowledgeable,…”

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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, Caligraphy master shared details about the history of Japanese Caligraphy including how she learned it herself. I enjoyed writing several kandjis myself (with a little help from Aya and her assistant). It was one of my highlights on my trip!”

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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!”

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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

“The class is not intended for children (ours are 7 and 9), which is not clear in the Viator description. After some initial discussion, we sorted the situation. We thereafter had a wonderful class which all of us enjoyed. The children must be motivated. Great…”

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15.Japanese Calligraphy – Shodo – Lesson (near Kyoto Station)

Experience authentic Japanese calligraphy near Kyoto Station with a fun, hands-on lesson inclusive of souvenirs and guided by friendly experts.

★ 5.0

“This was a very fun activity that both I am and my 9-year old son loved. There were several items to decorate with calligraphy and many chances to practice. The team created unique spellings of our names in Japanese kanji characters Read more”

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