Takayama: Zen Calligraphy Experience

Experience authentic Japanese calligraphy at historic Takayama Zenkoji Temple.

Looking for a meaningful way to experience Japanese culture beyond sightseeing?

Step inside historic Takayama Zenkoji Temple, just a 5-minute walk from Takayama Station, and take a break from the busy streets of Takayama with an authentic Japanese calligraphy experience.

No previous experience is necessary. Your instructor Yamato will guide you step by step, from learning the names and uses of traditional calligraphy tools to holding the brush and using it correctly.

You will also experience grinding traditional solid ink on an inkstone, an essential part of traditional Japanese calligraphy. Then, take your time practicing brush strokes and Japanese characters.

There is no limit to the number of practice sheets you can use, so you can keep practicing until you feel satisfied with your work.

Choose the session that suits you best:

For Everyone

This experience is open to solo travelers, couples, friends, families, and small groups.

With a maximum of 4 participants, the small group size allows your instructor to provide careful, personalized guidance to each participant.

This is a shared experience and is not private.

For Solo Travelers Only

This is a session exclusively for solo travelers. Enjoy Japanese calligraphy without worrying about the people around you. Up to 4 solo travelers can join each session.

Evening Calligraphy Session at 6 PM

After exploring Takayama, why not slow down at a historic temple, immerse yourself in calligraphy, and take a moment to connect with yourself?

As you move the brush, experience Japan on a deeper level.

What You'll Experience

1. Introduction to Calligraphy Tools

Learn about the traditional tools used in Japanese calligraphy and how to use them.

2. Grinding Ink

Grind traditional solid ink on an inkstone and experience one of the essential steps of Japanese calligraphy. Take a moment to slow down and focus as you prepare your ink by hand.

3. Choosing Your Kanji

Choose a kanji character that you would like to write. Since each kanji has its own stroke order, trace the character with your finger as you learn the correct stroke order.

4. Practice

Learn basic brush techniques and practice writing your chosen character or word. There is no limit to the number of practice sheets, so take your time, focus on each brushstroke, and practice until you are satisfied with your work.

5. Choose Your Souvenir

After practicing, choose one souvenir to take home.

If you choose a shikishi board featuring your own calligraphy, it comes with a protective case and a non-woven carrying bag for taking it home safely.

Alternatively, you can choose to have your name written in carefully selected kanji on a traditional Japanese washi postcard. The postcard comes with a card explaining the meaning of the kanji.

You can choose between these two options on the day of the experience. No need to decide in advance.

Language

English / Japanese

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the experience.
50% cancellation fee for cancellations within 48 hours.
100% cancellation fee for cancellations within 24 hours.

Meeting Point

At the main hall of Takayama Zenkoji

4-3 Tenma-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
📍View on Google Maps

How to Find Us

① Please open the sliding door and enter.

② Once inside, take off your shoes at the entrance and change into the slippers provided.
③ Turn left and go up the stairs.


④ Before entering the main hall, please take off your slippers and bow once as a sign of respect. 
⑤ Walk all the way to the back of the main hall. Your instructor will be waiting for you there.

After exploring Takayama, why not slow down at a quiet temple, immerse yourself in calligraphy, and take a moment to connect with yourself?