Beijing: Wangfujing Calligraphy Class by Forbidden City

Ink, laughter & new strokes in a Beijing calligraphy class

You’ll feel both challenged and welcomed as you learn Chinese calligraphy near Beijing’s Forbidden City. Guided by a patient teacher, you’ll practice brush strokes on real rice paper, try writing your name in characters (with plenty of laughs), and leave with your own ink creation, plus maybe a new appreciation for slowing down.

Step-by-step itinerary

Calligraphy class and cultural experience

• Attend calligraphy class in Wangfujing
• Learn about brushes, ink, and paper
• Practice Chinese calligraphy techniques
• Ask questions to the art teacher
• Explore Wangfujing pedestrian street
• Walk to Forbidden City nearby

The experience

I didn’t expect my hands to shake quite so much when I first picked up the brush at the Wangfujing calligraphy class, right by the Forbidden City. The teacher, Mr. Zhang, smiled and told me not to worry. He said everyone’s first character looks a little wobbly. There was this faint smell of ink and rice paper that reminded me of old libraries. I could hear the low hum of Beijing traffic outside, but inside it felt quiet and kind of sacred, if that makes sense.

We sat around a big table with a few other travelers (one family from Melbourne, a solo woman from Seoul), and Mr. Zhang showed us how to hold the brush, which is surprisingly different from holding a pen. My first attempt at “永” (eternity) looked more like an accidental squiggle than anything philosophical. He laughed gently and corrected my grip, then told us about how each stroke has its own meaning and rhythm. I liked that he answered every question without rushing. Even when my friend asked about the seal carvings on his desk, he took time to explain where they came from.

The best part was when we tried writing our names in Chinese characters. I absolutely butchered mine: Li (the assistant) laughed and tried to help me pronounce it right. It was honestly fun to mess up together. Nobody took themselves too seriously. After class, we wandered out onto Wangfujing pedestrian street with ink still drying on our papers and this weird feeling of pride for something so simple as a few black lines on white paper. I still think about that moment when I see my messy character taped above my desk.

What’s included

Your session includes all calligraphy supplies (brushes, inkstones, rice paper), and personal instruction from an English-speaking art teacher. You can pick your preferred duration when booking and will have time after class to explore nearby Wangfujing pedestrian street or stroll toward the Forbidden City if you feel like it.

Options for this experience

4 options

30-Minutes Calligraphy ClassGuide in English · 15 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 17:00Duration: 30 minutes. Includes an excellent calligraphy teacher, calligraphy supplies and a 30-minute calligraphy class.

1-Hour Calligraphy ClassGuide in English or Chinese · 15 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 17:00Duration: 1 hour. Includes an excellent calligraphy teacher, calligraphy supplies and a 1-hour calligraphy class.

90-Minutes Calligraphy ClassGuide in English or Chinese · 15 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 17:00Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Includes an excellent calligraphy teacher, calligraphy supplies and a 90-minute calligraphy class.

2-Hour Calligraphy ClassGuide in English or Chinese · 13 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 16:00Duration: 2 hours. Includes an excellent calligraphy teacher, calligraphy supplies and a 2-hour calligraphy class.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day15 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 17:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 to 80 years) · Child (under 13)

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish and Chinese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Hutong Calligraphy Class

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Chinese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 13).

Where is the calligraphy class held in Beijing?

The class takes place at No.8 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dong Cheng District, near the Forbidden City.

How long does the calligraphy class last?

You can choose between 30 minutes, 1 hour, 90 minutes or 2 hours when booking.

Are supplies like brushes and ink included?

All necessary calligraphy supplies are provided during your class.

Can I ask questions about Chinese culture during the class?

Yes, your teacher encourages questions about culture or technique throughout the session.

Is hotel pickup included for this activity?

No hotel pickup is mentioned. You need to make your own way to the address in Wangfujing.