Yokohama: Japanese Calligraphy Class with Tea(sencha)&Sweets

Exploring Japanese culture often means visiting temples, temples, and bustling markets, but for a more personal and creative experience, this calligraphy class in Yokohama offers a delightful blend of art, tradition, and flavor. The experience is hosted in the historic Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, also known as Jack’s Tower—a site that adds a sense of cultural gravitas and charm to the activity.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll learn the fundamentals of Japanese calligraphy from a highly experienced instructor who has been practicing since childhood and has earned multiple awards. Second, the chance to create a personalized piece on a traditional fan provides a wonderful souvenir that captures your effort and new skills. Lastly, pairing your artistic endeavor with Japanese tea and sweets elevates the entire session, making it both relaxing and indulgent.

One potential consideration? The class is focused on beginners, so if you’re already familiar with calligraphy, you might find the pace a bit slow or the content too basic. Plus, the activity lasts about 2.5 hours, which is ideal for a relaxed half-day but might not suit those with tight schedules. This tour is best suited for travelers interested in cultural experiences, arts, and authentic Japanese traditions.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn Japanese calligraphy from an award-winning instructor.
• Hands-On Creativity: Make your own calligraphy art on a traditional fan.
• Cultural Learning: Receive a beginner’s guide in English to continue practicing.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy Japanese tea and sweets in a cozy setting.
• Accessible and Informative: Conducted in English with translation support if needed.
• Convenient Location: Held at Yokohama’s historic Jack’s Tower, adding to the experience’s charm.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Venue: Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall (Jack’s Tower)

The class takes place in the Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, a building designated as a national important cultural property. Its historic architecture provides a fitting backdrop for traditional Japanese arts. The setting feels intimate and cozy, perfect for focus and personal expression, especially in a small-group environment. This venue’s significance adds an extra layer of appreciation for visitors interested in Japanese heritage.

The Instructor: A Master with a Passion for Calligraphy

Guided by an instructor who has practiced calligraphy since age 6 and has won multiple awards, you’ll be in capable hands. Their enthusiasm and expertise translate into a warm, encouraging atmosphere, especially for beginners. You can expect to receive step-by-step guidance on how to hold the brush, maintain the correct posture, and execute the strokes for kanji characters. Many reviews mention that the instructor is patient and attentive, making the process accessible for all skill levels.

What to Expect: Learning and Creating

The lesson lasts approximately 2.5 hours, an ideal length to balance instruction and creative time without feeling rushed. You’ll start by learning the basic brush techniques, focusing on proper grip, posture, and stroke order—a crucial foundation for anyone interested in Japanese calligraphy.

The class provides beginner-friendly materials in English, which many find helpful for future practice. These include guides on how to hold the brush, stroke order, and tips for kanji. This thoughtful addition makes it possible to continue practicing even after returning home.

Following the instruction, you’ll have the chance to design your own calligraphy piece on a traditional fan. You can choose a character that resonates personally or select from prepared samples. This component is often cited as a highlight, as it allows you to take home a unique, handcrafted souvenir that embodies your effort and newfound skills.

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The Tea and Sweets Experience

No Japanese cultural experience is complete without a taste of its culinary traditions. After your artistic session, you’ll be served a selection of Japanese tea and sweets. Expect to enjoy sencha, a popular green tea, and a variety of traditional confections. Many reviews appreciate the extra touch, noting that the tea’s aroma and flavor deepen the sense of calm and reflection.

The host often explains the tea-making process, helping you understand the significance of each aroma and taste. This segment not only complements the creative activity but also offers a moment of relaxation and cultural insight.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The class is conducted in a small-group setting, which translates to personalized attention and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Many participants found this intimate environment conducive to learning and encouraged questions. The instructor’s attentiveness ensures that even complete beginners feel supported.

Cost and Value

Priced at $67 per person, the class offers a lot of value considering the included materials, the personalized calligraphy on a fan, and the tasting experience. The beginners guide in English is especially useful for those wanting to explore calligraphy further. For travelers interested in culture and hands-on activities, this experience offers an authentic taste of Japan at a reasonable price.

Practicalities: Booking and Logistics

You can reserve your spot with flexible cancellation options, including the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The activity begins and ends at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The venue’s central location and the relaxed pace make it easy to fit into a Yokohama sightseeing day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This class is perfect if you’re curious about Japanese arts and crafts, want a break from sightseeing, or enjoy hands-on cultural activities. It’s especially well-suited for beginners, art lovers, and those wanting a personal souvenir. Even if you don’t consider yourself artistic, the supportive environment ensures you’ll get something meaningful out of the experience. It’s also a great choice for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a relaxed, educational activity.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for beginners, with detailed instructions and beginner-friendly materials provided. Many participants mention feeling supported even without prior experience.

Will I get to keep my calligraphy fan?
Absolutely. You will create your calligraphy art on a traditional fan, which you can take home as a souvenir.

How long is the session?
The class lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to learn, practice, and create your art without feeling rushed.

Is the activity conducted in English?
Yes, the lesson is conducted in English, with translation software assistance if needed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the calligraphy lesson, art materials, a beginner’s guide in English, a personalized calligraphy sample, and Japanese tea and sweets.

Where does the activity take place?
The session is held at Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, a historic building known as Jack’s Tower, in Yokohama.

Final Thoughts

This Yokohama calligraphy class offers a charming blend of art, culture, and relaxation. For those wanting to create a tangible, meaningful souvenir while gaining insight into Japanese traditions, it delivers in spades. The small-group setup and expert guidance make it accessible and enjoyable, even for complete novices. Plus, the combination of creating your own art and sampling Japanese tea and sweets makes it a well-rounded cultural escape.

If you’re after a hands-on experience that’s educational, engaging, and authentically Japanese, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for travelers looking to add a unique, creative element to their Yokohama adventure, especially if they appreciate arts, crafts, and cultural storytelling.

Note: For more experiences in Yokohama, see the related tours linked here Yokohama eat-up guided tour or Yokohama private tour of Chinatown.

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