Takayama：Night Calligraphy Experience in a Temple

This experience is perfect for you if you...

• Want to calm your mind and find a peaceful place to unwind at night
• Want to visit tourist attractions but are tired of the crowds
• Want to experience Japanese culture firsthand and feel a deeper connection to Japan
• Want to experience calligraphy in a special and traditional setting
• Enjoy yoga or meditation
• Prefer a small group experience with a maximum of four guests and personalized guidance
• Are traveling solo
• Are a backpacker and don't want to add extra luggage to your journey

Step away from the busy streets of Takayama and spend a peaceful evening experiencing Japanese calligraphy at Zenkoji Temple.
No experience is necessary. An emerging Japanese calligraphy artist Yamato will guide you carefully through each step, from the basics of brush handling to creating your own piece. 

With a maximum of 4 guests per session, you'll receive personal guidance in a relaxed and intimate setting.

Traveling solo? You’re very welcome. We’re happy to hold the experience even for just one guest.

Zenkoji is also a temple where you can stay overnight. If you're staying at the temple, you can simply return to your room after the experience and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Zenkoji at night.

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 your own ink and take a moment to slow down. Listen to the gentle sound of the inkstone and enjoy the subtle fragrance of the ink as you calm your mind.

3. Choosing Your Model
Choose a Japanese character or word that speaks to you and learn about its meaning.

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 and practice until you are satisfied with your work.

5. Create Your Own Artwork
Once you are ready, create your final piece on a traditional Japanese shikishi board and take it home as a unique souvenir of your time in Takayama. Your original shikishi artwork comes with a protective case and a non-woven carrying bag, so you can safely take it with you.

Travel Light Option
Don't want to add extra luggage to your journey? We offer a Travel Light option.
Instead of taking the shikishi board with you, you will receive:

• Your practice sheet
• A postcard featuring your name written in Kanji by calligraphy artist Yamato
• A card explaining the meaning of your Kanji name

These will be placed in an envelope for you to take home. If you prefer, we can also mail them to your home overseas.

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

Language

English / Japanese

Booking Information

Advance booking is recommended to secure your place. 
If space is available, same-day walk-in participation may also be possible. Please feel free to visit us or ask our staff on the day of the event.
Workshops are held on selected weekends. Please check the available dates when booking.

Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the scheduled workshop. Cancellations made within 48 hours are non-refundable. If the workshop is cancelled due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances, guests may choose a full refund or reschedule to another available date.

Meeting Point

AT the main hall in 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, please take off your shoes and follow the passage on your left.



③ Before entering the main hall, please take off your slippers and bow once as a sign of respect. Then, continue to the back of the main hall.

Slow down, connect with yourself, and take a piece of Japan home with you.