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Reviews

• A Thoughtful and Memorable Calligraphy Experience

  holliep452,Mar 17, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  I had such a beautiful experience at this kanji calligraphy studio. From the moment we arrived, everything was set up so thoughtfully. Every brush, ink, and paper we could need was ready for us. The studio itself is gorgeous and filled with Maki-san’s artwork, which made it feel really special and inspiring. What I loved most was how immersive it was. We learned everything from making the ink to understanding the different types of paper and practicing different writing styles and techniques. Even the materials themselves had meaning - the ink, paper, stone and brushes all had stories behind them, which made the whole experience feel deeper and more intentional. We were also served tea and snacks, which made it feel really warm and welcoming. Maki-san showed us some beautiful calligraphy sets you can take home too, which I loved because it made me want to keep practicing after. I came in not knowing what I wanted to write, and she gave me a suggestion that felt so fitting for me. It made the experience feel really personal. I appreciated being able to practice with different brushes and play around until I found a style that felt like mine. Maki-san was so patient and encouraging, and she made the whole process feel fun and relaxed for all of us. My partner and I had such a great time, and it was honestly really sweet to see our friends’ 4-year-old enjoying it just as much. It really is something anyone can enjoy. I’d absolutely recommend this if you’re looking for something creative, cultural, meaningful, and a little different. It was worth trip!

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• A rewarding and authentic Japanese experience worth every bit

  F6257EQnates,Mar 17, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  One of the most authentic and rewarding experiences we had in Japan! Makiko is an amazing teacher, as she guides you through the sublime art of kanji calligraphy. From making the ink, to determining your kanji message, and exploring the various ways you can depict it. The entire process was as fulfilling as it was enlightening. Absolutely worth it, and you get to choose the final keepsake on which to write your message! Made one for myself, and another for my Mom’s birthday. The matcha and snacks at the end were the perfect way to finish the lesson as well.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• Calligraphy experience at Arima Onsen

  Sunshine21683653084,Mar 7, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  It's been a while since I've been polishing ink. I asked. When I was not sure what letters to write, he suggested I try writing with the theme of cherry blossoms, and we played with brushes. I used cherry blossom ink to finish bookmarks and mini-works. You will learn new ways to enjoy calligraphy that you never knew before. Maki-sensei is full of humor and ideas, and she is friendly. You can also buy rare Japanese ink stones and sumi ink as souvenirs. It is also a recommended experience for Japanese people.

  

  

  

• It was a time of healing.

  G9308TY,Feb 27, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  My American husband is interested in Chinese characters, so we participated in a calligraphy experience together. The teacher was very friendly and spoke English, so I could focus on making my own work with peace of mind. Even I, a Japanese, have rarely rubbed ink, and the scent and its work soothed me. The tools used were also elaborate, and I was intrigued to learn how they were made. Even though I asked him to improvise the letters I wanted to write, he wrote a variety of examples, including what typefaces would fit. My husband is left-handed, and I was thrilled that he also taught me how to write and type accordingly. They also suggested how to decorate the finished work, and I immediately wanted to hang it at home. By the time I finished writing, I felt strangely refreshed in my long, quiet studio where I could hear the birds singing, writing with a unified spirit. I am happy to take my work home, but spending time quietly in the healing studio with the mischievous and kind teacher was a very good experience in itself. When my husband's parents and friends in the U.S. come to Japan, I would love to take them with me again.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• Calligraphy lesson and tour of Japan’s oldest onsen village.

  c0linfc,Feb 27, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  Mamiko san took us for an easy walking tour of Arima Onsen, which is the oldest hot spring town in Japan and filled with rich history. We stopped by the small shop that makes her calligraphy brushes before trying sake manju(steamed dumplings filled with sweet bean paste.) and then heading back to her studio for the lesson. Back at the atelier, we learned about the inks, brushes and papers used in traditional calligraphy and discussed which kanji we wanted to learn. Makiko san showed us various brush strokes and techniques, which was particularly helpful for me since I’m left handed! After preparing our ink, selecting our brushes and practicing on plain washi paper, we moved on to our final pieces. Being Japanese, I’d say my wife did much better than I did, but with the lessons, I managed to produce artwork that looked pretty passable! We selected our hangers to display our work at home, said our thank yous and goodbyes and we’re on our way. Thank you again, Makiko san! 10/10 recommended!

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
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