・Learn the history of the hanko in English — and why a personal seal still represents identity in Japan ・Watch a nationally certified First-Grade seal engraver at work, up close at his own bench ・See the traditional tools of the trade and learn how each one is used — the craft, not just the finished piece ・Discover how your name can be written in Japanese, and choose the characters for your own seal ・Not a craft class. A personal commission from a working atelier A craftsman carves your seal — you watch it take shape. Curious how your name looks in Japanese? We’ll show you several ways it can be written, then design and engrave an original seal just for you. In Japan, personal seals have long been used in place of signatures on important documents and remain closely tied to personal identity. Everything is explained in English, directly by the engraver at his workbench — including the tools he uses and the purpose of each one. Your finished seal will be ready later that afternoon.

Plongez dans le charme de Kamakura en créant une boîte à musique unique. Explorez la sérénité de la plus grande statue de Bouddha en bois du Japon, une merveille d'artisanat et de spiritualité. Participez à des échanges culturels et à l'artisanat, et repartez avec de précieux souvenirs de la tradition japonaise.

Ever tried Japanese Calligraphy? Here is the chance to discover one of the most popular Japanese cultures, Shodo. Our cultural tour will be held at a local Gibier bar-restaurant in Kamakura. We offer calligraphy experience, including a short lecture on Japanese letters and basic skills with a brush. After some practice, you will make an artwork on a traditional card to bring back. The tour also comes with one drink offered by the restaurant. If you are interested in the traditional activity with a glass of local drink, this is the tour for you! As we only accept a private group, you can have a relaxed time with your friend or family. Your instructor, who is fluent in English and familiar with beginners, will help you make a unique memory and souvenior from Japan! Note1: The tour is operated in the second floor. A person is required to climb stairs by oneself. (No elevator equipped) Note2: When booking, please confirm your name and gender for the sake of letter list preparation.

Découvrez le charme de Kamakura lors d'une balade pittoresque à bord de l'emblématique train Enoden. Visitez des lieux célèbres comme le passage piéton du lycée de Kamakura, présenté dans « Slam Dunk », et profitez d'une vue imprenable sur la mer. Ce circuit allie l'histoire de Kamakura à son héritage culturel populaire pour une expérience inoubliable.

1. Enter a Working Hanko Atelier See where professional Japanese seals are actually created and discover the tools, materials and techniques used by the craftsmen. 2. Meet a Fourth-Generation Engraver Meet the artisan carrying on a family tradition that began in 1898. 3. Discover Japanese Hanko Culture Learn in English about the history of hanko, Japanese characters, seal design and the role seals have played in Japanese life. 4. View Award-Winning Works See exceptional seal engravings, including works recognized with Gold Prizes in national competitions. 5. Carve Your Own Stone Seal Learn the basic technique of seal carving and create your own stone seal under the guidance of a professional engraver. 6. Make Your First Impression Apply traditional red ink and reveal the impression you have created. Take your stone seal home as a personal piece of Japan — made by your own hands in a fourth-generation Kamakura atelier.

This is an instructor-led mindfulness tea ceremony experience where participants are gently guided through each step by facilitator Miki in a peaceful gallery setting in Kamakura. Unlike a formal tea ceremony that requires kneeling on tatami mats, this experience is held in a relaxed table-style setting, so guests can enjoy the Way of Tea while sitting comfortably on chairs. In a calm Kamakura gallery, guests first experience tea as a participant, then learn the meaning and movements behind the ceremony, and finally prepare and serve matcha themselves. The experience gently connects Japanese tradition with breathing, posture, gratitude, and presence. More than a cultural activity, it is a mindful experience you can carry into everyday life.

This hands-on workshop lets you create and learn about Japan's unique food sample culture. Enjoyable for all ages, from children to adults, it's perfect for first-timers. Experience both traditional sushi candle-making using wax and lifelike food sample creation. Discover the secrets and history behind their lifelike appearance through easy-to-understand explanations. Take your finished creations home as souvenirs—a uniquely Japanese experience you'll cherish forever.

This is an instructor-led Japanese calligraphy experience where participants learn directly from an experienced calligraphy master in a peaceful workshop setting. Explore the serene art of Shodō in a mindful Japanese calligraphy workshop in Kamakura. Under the expert guidance of Calligraphy Master Shiei, with over 50 years of experience, you’ll learn to create beautiful kanji while immersing yourself in Japanese culture. The experience begins with an introduction to calligraphy techniques and philosophy, followed by the calming process of preparing sumi ink. As you practice brush movements and write your chosen kanji, you will discover the meditative nature of this traditional art form. At the end of the workshop, you will create your own finished calligraphy piece to take home, along with a deeper appreciation for the quiet beauty of Japanese aesthetics.