Japanese Calligraphy Class in Yokohama with Tea and Sweets

Trying your hand at Japanese calligraphy during a trip to Yokohama offers more than just a fun activity—it’s a chance to connect with a centuries-old art form in an authentic, relaxed environment. While many travelers stick to sightseeing, this experience brings a calming, cultural touch that stays with you long after the class ends. Based on multiple reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable instructor, intimate setting, and the chance to take home a beautiful piece of art.

What makes this experience truly special? First, the guidance by an award-winning instructor with over 30 years of experience ensures you’re in capable hands. Second, the small group size—which caps at just six participants—means personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. Third, the combination of calligraphy with traditional Japanese tea and sweets makes for a cozy, memorable session. The only thing to consider? It’s a relatively short class (about 2.5 hours), so if you’re after a more in-depth art immersion, this might feel a bit light.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want a genuine cultural experience, appreciate hands-on activities, or enjoy learning new skills in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some familiarity with calligraphy, you’ll likely find value here. If you’re seeking a meaningful, authentic activity that’s both educational and calming, this class in Yokohama could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Calligraphy Instruction: Led by a highly experienced, award-winning teacher, ensuring quality guidance.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to just six participants, creating a personalized and relaxed learning environment.
• Cultural Immersion: Learn the art of kanji brush strokes, then create a unique fan (uchiwa) as a keepsake.
• Traditional Japanese Tasting: Enjoy authentic tea options (sencha or hojicha) paired with traditional sweets.
• Take-Home Materials: Receive a beginner’s calligraphy guide in English to continue your practice.
• Convenient Location: Held at Yokohama’s Port Opening Memorial Hall, a historic site adding context to your visit.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at the Port Opening Memorial Hall, also known as Jack’s Tower, you’ll find yourself in a charming, historic building that sets the tone for a cultural outing. The class begins with your instructor—Mami, who has over three decades of experience—introducing basic techniques and explaining the art’s significance.

Participants are provided with a model to practice on and a chance to choose what to write—either your favorite kanji characters or your name in Japanese. The instructor, as reviews highlight, is excellent at helping beginners with clear, patient guidance. One reviewer mentioned how she appreciated how Mami “helped us to choose what to write,” which shows the flexibility and personalized attention in the session.

Next, you’ll transfer your practice onto a traditional Japanese fan (uchiwa), transforming your calligraphy skills into a beautiful, usable souvenir. The process involves copying your chosen characters onto the fan with delicate brush strokes, a task that is both rewarding and meditatively calming. Throughout this, the instructor provides tips on brush handling and stroke techniques, making sure everyone feels comfortable regardless of experience level.

Towards the end of the session, everyone gets to unwind over authentic Japanese tea—your choice of sencha or hojicha—paired with traditional sweets. This moment of relaxation is frequently praised in reviews, with travelers noting how the tea and sweets added a cozy, communal vibe that enhanced the experience. Afterward, you’ll receive a beginners guide to Japanese calligraphy in English, a thoughtful touch that invites you to continue practicing once back home.

What Makes This Calligraphy Class Stand Out?

The expert guidance makes a significant difference. Reviewers repeatedly mention Mami’s patience and her ability to clearly explain techniques in English. One said, “She helped us with patience and clear instructions,” which reassures visitors that this is a beginner-friendly environment.

The small group setting is another highlight. Limited to just six participants, it ensures everyone gets personalized attention, which is especially valuable when learning a delicate art like calligraphy. This intimacy also fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and try new strokes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Authentic materials and setting give the class a genuine feel. The use of traditional Japanese paper fans (uchiwa) makes your finished piece both beautiful and practical—something you’ll want to display at home. The historic backdrop of Jack’s Tower adds a layer of cultural context that deepens the experience, making it more than just a workshop.

The Value of the Experience: Is It Worth It?

At $65.40 per person, this calligraphy class offers remarkable value, especially considering the quality of instruction, materials, and culture. For travelers eager to engage with Japanese traditions in a meaningful way, this session delivers both education and a memorable souvenir.

Many reviews mention how rewarding and fun they found the experience. One traveler called it “extremely rewarding, fun, and informative,” highlighting how Mami’s guidance helped them succeed despite no prior experience. The fact that you get to take home a fan with your own calligraphy adds a tangible memory that lasts longer than a photo.

It’s also an efficient use of time—lasting around 2 hours 30 minutes—making it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day without feeling like a lengthy commitment. The small group size and the cozy setting mean you’ll never feel lost or rushed, making it suitable even for shy or first-timer participants.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Visit

The tour begins at the Port Opening Memorial Hall, a well-connected spot near public transportation. Confirmed bookings receive a mobile ticket, making check-in smooth.

The maximum group size of six ensures a personalized experience, but it’s wise to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The class is designed to accommodate most travelers, regardless of skill level, and the instructor’s English skills mean language isn’t a barrier.

For those who want to continue their calligraphy journey after the class, the included beginner’s guide is a useful resource. If you’re interested in combining this with other Yokohama or Tokyo activities, the provider, Mami’s calligraphy, also offers other tours—some of which are linked in the experience listing.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re after a cultural, hands-on activity that’s both relaxing and educational, this Japanese calligraphy class offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy learning new skills, appreciate authentic experiences, or want a memorable keepsake from their trip. The guidance by a seasoned instructor and the small group size make it accessible to all levels, even complete beginners.

The inclusion of traditional tea and sweets adds a cozy touch, transforming a simple art lesson into a genuine cultural experience. Plus, the beautiful fan you create serves as a lasting memory of your time in Yokohama.

While it’s not a deep dive into calligraphy techniques, it’s perfect for those seeking a meaningful, well-organized, and enjoyable activity—one that balances learning and leisure in a serene setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this class provides a warm, engaging way to connect with Japanese heritage.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children or complete beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for most travelers and beginners. The instructor provides clear instructions, and the small group size ensures personalized guidance, making it friendly for all skill levels.

How long does the class last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes long, which makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule without feeling rushed.

Where does the class take place?
It’s held at the Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, a historic building that adds to the cultural atmosphere of the session.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Expect to use brushes and ink, so clothing should be free of delicate or valuable fabrics that might stain.

Can I continue practicing calligraphy after the class?
Yes, you’ll receive a beginner’s guide in English to help you practice at home and keep the skills alive.

Is the cost of $65.40 per person a good value?
Considering the expert guidance, traditional materials, and the souvenir fan, this price offers excellent value for a meaningful cultural experience.

If you’re eager to add a creative, cultural touch to your Yokohama trip, this calligraphy class offers both education and enjoyment wrapped into one delightful session.