Kamakura: A 4th-Gen Master Carves Your Own Name Seal (Hanko)
・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.
Vous souhaitez préparer votre propre thé délicieux ? Dans la plupart des ateliers de cérémonie du thé, vous n'êtes pas autorisé à manipuler les ustensiles à thé. Cependant, dans les cours pratiques que nous organisons, vous pouvez toucher les ustensiles et apprendre le processus de préparation du thé à partir de zéro. L'instructeur est un maître de l'école Higashi Abe. Il a enseigné à de nombreux étudiants, il vous apprendra donc avec douceur et soin comment préparer le thé. Vous êtes également invité à prendre autant de photos que vous le souhaitez pour rendre votre expérience mémorable. Nous espérons que vous ferez de votre voyage au Japon un moment inoubliable et agréable.
Préparation d'échantillons alimentaires avec des professionnels à Kanagawa
Vous pouvez réaliser des « échantillons culinaires ». Le moule est fabriqué à partir d'un véritable produit, il est donc très réaliste. Même si c'est votre première fois, ce n'est pas un problème. Vous recevrez des instructions précises pour que vous puissiez le réaliser sans souci. Menu du jour (Veuillez choisir votre option à l'avance) 1) Takoyaki (standard) 2) Tartes (option) 3) Horloge à pain (option) Même avec les mêmes ingrédients, le produit fini sera différent pour chacun. N'hésitez pas à créer votre propre œuvre d'art. Vous pourrez les emporter chez vous le jour J.
Le « Yosegi Zaiku » est une technique de marqueterie traditionnelle japonaise originaire de Hakone, dans la préfecture de Kanagawa. Cet artisanat consiste à créer des motifs géométriques complexes en combinant des morceaux de bois de différentes couleurs et veinures naturelles. Fabriquons notre propre sous-verre traditionnel « Yosegi Zaiku » ! Mon fils de 6 ans a adoré fabriquer des sous-verres. Rassurez-vous, c'est facile à fabriquer.
Découvrez la calligraphie japonaise authentique Introduction au Shodo
At the beginning of the session, the host, a professional calligrapher, will give a brief introduction to the world of Japanese calligraphy. Calligraphy is one of Japan's traditional cultural arts, and enjoying this centuries-old practice will lead to a deeper understanding of the expressive nature of the Japanese language. Before engaging in authentic calligraphy, the host will briefly explain the steps of calligraphy and the tools used. Guests will have ample time in a calm setting to ask questions and chat with the host. The experience concludes with each guest using a brush and ink to write Japanese words and mastering the basics of calligraphy. The host communicates with guests in English and is a calligrapher selected for prestigious exhibitions in Japan. At Kawasaki Shodo School, where the event takes place, we value trust and inclusivity, striving to provide guests with cherished memories.
Le polissage de la laque crée une vaisselle japonaise unique
L'un des facteurs qui ont fait le succès de « SHOGUN », lauréat d'un Golden Globe, réside dans son dévouement à la beauté et à la culture japonaises, ainsi que dans son attitude intransigeante. Depuis que le Washoku (cuisine japonaise) a été inscrit au patrimoine culturel immatériel de l'UNESCO le 4 décembre 2013, sa popularité a explosé. La laque d'Odawara, un artisanat traditionnel fabriqué à Odawara, dans la préfecture de Kanagawa, a été classée « Artisanat traditionnel » par le ministre du Commerce international et de l'Industrie (aujourd'hui ministre de l'Économie, du Commerce et de l'Industrie) en mai 1984. Créez votre propre vaisselle japonaise aux motifs uniques et continuez à vous imprégner de l'univers et de la culture du Washoku, même après votre retour !
Expérience de karaté et d'iaido samouraï pour débutants à Kawasaki
De nombreux enfants pratiquent le karaté-do. Vous pourrez découvrir le karaté ensemble. Vous aurez l'occasion de rencontrer des enfants japonais et de faire de nouvelles découvertes. Vous pourrez également apprendre le karaté d'autodéfense en toute sécurité, toucher et manier un faux sabre, et essayer des ceintures obi, des do-gi et des hakama. Vous pourrez également apprendre l'étiquette du Iaido !
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.
This workshop offers a hands-on experience of traditional Japanese hand-crafted washi papermaking. Located just a 5-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Washi Studio “Washinoiori” is a place where you can casually experience the techniques of Echizen washi, a craft with over 1,000 years of history. With the support of an instructor, you will create your own original washi artwork. Beginners are welcome, and no prior experience is required. Enjoy a warm and friendly atmosphere as you craft your piece, and be moved by the beauty of your finished washi. Take home your one-of-a-kind creation as a special souvenir from Japan.
Experience Japanese calligraphy using real onsen water in a peaceful ryokan setting. Write on traditional paper or a Japanese hand fan, and take home your one-of-a-kind creation. Relax and connect with the spirit of Hakone through this soothing cultural experience.
Make your Goshuin Stamp Book in Kamakura Retro Café
Start your cultural journey by crafting your own Goshuin stamp book—a treasured item in Japanese spiritual tradition—at a charming, old-style café in Kamakura. Goshuin, meaning ‘honorable red seal,’ originated centuries ago as proof of temple visits and evolved into beautiful calligraphic art combined with unique temple seals. After completing your book, savor coffee carefully roasted by the café owner or a soft drink, paired with a traditional monaka sweet. As you relax, enjoy stories from the owner about Kamakura’s history and culture. Then, take your handmade Goshuin stamp book and explore a nearby famous Hokokuji temple, known as the bamboo temple, and collect an authentic Goshuin stamp—reflections of centuries-old devotion and artistry. At the temple, you can also enjoy matcha at the traditional tea house there. This immersive experience blends tradition, local storytelling, and the serene beauty of Kamakura’s spiritual heritage.
Inside Japan : Meet a Hanko Master & Carve Your Own Stone Seal
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.
Shonan : apprenez la calligraphie auprès du dernier maître de l'art du « Hisseki-jutsu »
Envie de découvrir le Japon profond ? C'est la première expérience de calligraphie publique où vous pourrez rencontrer un maître calligraphe dans cette ville où l'on croise rarement des étrangers. Vous dégusterez des douceurs japonaises et du thé pendant l'atelier ; pas de panique ! Les débutants sont également les bienvenus ! À la fin de l'atelier, vous créerez un t-shirt, une serviette ou un sac cabas avec votre nom calligraphié et une peinture sumi-e de MADARA de votre choix. Vous repartirez ainsi avec un objet unique et original.
Misaki is located at the tip of the Miura Peninsula, famous as a port for tuna. Not only delicious fresh tuna dishes, Misaki offers one-and-only unique cultural experience such as incense-sachet making and a Big-Catch flag coloring. Historic downtown Misaki has many traditional buildings; and some are renovated to modern shops like coffee roaster. We also enjoy award-winning microbrewery beer and if schedule matches, we will take a bus to Miura Beechh, enjoying magnificent view of great nature in Misaki/Miura region.
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.
Engage with the tranquil art of Japanese calligraphy within a historic temple in Odawara, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Guided by a Zen priest, this experience offers a unique opportunity to create your own personalized scroll while immersing yourself in the meditative process of ink grinding and brush strokes. All materials are provided, and you'll don a traditional samue for a complete cultural experience. Choose a kanji character that resonates with you, crafting a lasting keepsake infused with the essence of Zen and Japanese aesthetics.
About 40 minutes from Tokyo, enjoy a relaxing indigo dyeing experience in a quiet, green setting. Meet your guide and travel together to Ikuta Ryokuchi. At the Traditional Indigo Dyeing Workshop inside the park(Dento Kogeikan), join a hands-on indigo dyeing workshop using natural Japanese indigo. You will dye the item selected at booking and create your own unique pattern. Please note that dyeing personal items such as T-shirts or bags is not permitted. A local instructor explains each step, with English interpretation provided by your guide, making it easy for beginners. The workshop lasts about 1.5 hours. Take your finished piece home as a special souvenir from Japan. Afterward, you may return to the station with your guide or explore the nearby Japan Open Air House Museum, featuring 25 designated historic houses. Notes: Indigo dye has a natural scent. Some steps require squatting, and clothes may get slightly dirty, so please wear comfortable attire.
Expérience de dîner communautaire sur la vie locale à Kamakura
Contrairement aux expériences touristiques classiques, notre dîner communautaire offre un échange culturel authentique avec les habitants de Kamakura dans une ambiance intime et familiale, créant des liens authentiques et des connaissances privilégiées que les guides touristiques ne peuvent pas offrir. Ce qui nous distingue : CADRE INTIME : Maximum de 8 personnes dans notre espace de vie partagé confortable ; vous aurez l'impression de rendre visite à des amis japonais, et non de participer à une visite guidée. ACCUEIL PERSONNALISÉ : Nous vous mettons en relation avec des habitants en fonction de vos centres d'intérêt : rencontrez des artistes, des historiens, des familles ou des résidents de longue date qui partagent vos passions. ️ CUISINE PRATIQUE : Apprenez les techniques de cuisine traditionnelle japonaise maison avec des ingrédients frais et de saison du célèbre marché de producteurs Renbai de Kamakura. HISTOIRES CULTURELLES : Découvrez plus de 1 000 ans d'histoire de Kamakura à travers des anecdotes personnelles, de l'héritage des samouraïs à la vie communautaire moderne. ️ CONNAISSANCES PRINCIPALES : Obtenez des recommandations de trésors cachés, de boutiques à prix abordables et de lieux secrets que seuls les habitants connaissent.
Craft a Pair of Chopsticks Made Just for You Create a one-of-a-kind pair of chopsticks in a historic city with over 1,000 years of tradition. This immersive experience lets you work alongside skilled artisans to shape natural wood into your very own chopsticks. Carefully adjusted to fit your hands down to the millimeter, they offer an exceptional level of comfort and usability. You can even have your name engraved on them. Why not take home a lifelong keepsake that carries the memories of your journey and a place at your dining table?