Japanese Calligraphy - Shodo - Lesson (near Kyoto Station)
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Please come and try Traditional Japanese Calligraphy! You can learn a new skill and get some great authentically Japanese Souvenirs to take home! You can experience calligraphy after sightseeing in Kyoto or before dinner, so you can use your time effectively. Check out the video below for an example of the class, and make a reservation ASAP! (*English Instruction Included) We also have activities for young children, so please bring them along!
*Due to popular demand, we have increased the number of time slots for the experience! You can now choose from 3:00PM, 4:00PM, 5:00PM, and 6:00PM. Other times also possible. Please ask!*
Souvenirs you will recieve for taking part in our class (included in the cost):
1. Your name written on calligraphy paper in kanji, hiragana, or katakana
2. A folding fan with your favorite word or name written on it
3. A postcard with your favorite word or name written on it
&
4. A gift envelope
OR
5. A photo frame
*Please choose one.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Use of brushes, ink & washi-paper
Gratuities
What To Expect
Kyoto
[Content of Experience] ①The staff will give you a lecture on how to use a brush and how to apply ink. ②Let's write basic characters (Kanji "One", "A", "Forever", "Kyoto") →You can make a scroll of the Kanji characters you write and take it home with you. ③Let's write your own name in Kanji characters (approximately) Our staff will assist you with possible kanji characters and their meanings. Example) Brian → “武礼安” (武 =Martial → military commander/bravery, courtesy →礼=politeness/gratitude, 安= peace) Liz → "梨図 Pear Painting" (梨=Pear, 図= painting)
Options
Japanese Calligraphy - Shodo - Lesson (near Kyoto Station)
Reviews
35 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great activity for the family!
Somze,
Aug 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00This 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 and helped us make the brush strokes in the right direction and order. There were 3 or 4 people helping us and they were very patient and encouraging. We came away with lots of uniquely decorated items and presents. To top it off, we were there at the right time but on the wrong day and the team accommodated us anyway. Highly recommend!
A wonderful time learning Japanese Calligraphy
Rosalette P,
Aug 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Highly recommended fun activity for young and old. The staff was very engaging and helpful. Very conversant in English.
Calligraphy in Japan
Vivian P,
Jul 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was our last day in Japan at it was only two blocks away from where we were staying near the train station very nice and welcoming. Learned about different kinds of calligraphy used in Japan. To find it you need to look for the MK taxi stand.
Wonderful beginner lesson with great souvenirs
Shana P,
Jul 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was a bit difficult to find (look for the MK building diagonally across the street when you come out of the station exit) but well worth it, everyone was so nice and we got some great souvenirs to bring home. My daughters loved it.
Fun and learn a little about Japanese
Elvia C,
May 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00Haruko was great and friendly. Very kind and patient as she explained. I truly enjoyed it. I am very happy I did this activity. I want to learn more calligraphy.
Related Experiences
Operated by Kyoto MK