Japanese Calligraphy Workshop in Hiroshima near Peace Memorial Park

Write your own Japanese characters and keep what you make

A 90-minute Japanese calligraphy workshop in Hiroshima near Peace Memorial Park where you learn brush techniques from a local instructor, practice writing Japanese characters, and create a finished artwork to take home. The workshop is private, so you work with your family or friends without other guests. All materials (brushes, ink, and paper) are included, and no prior experience is needed.

The experience

The workshop runs 90 minutes and sits a short walk from Peace Memorial Park, close enough to Okonomimura that you could combine both into one afternoon. A local instructor teaches you the fundamentals of shodō (Japanese calligraphy) using authentic brushes, ink, and paper. You start with basic brush strokes, learning how to hold the brush and control the flow of ink, then move to writing simple Japanese characters. The instructor explains the cultural meaning behind the forms you're learning, so the practice has context beyond technique.

After you've practiced the fundamentals, you create your own finished calligraphy piece. Something you design and execute yourself, not a copy of the instructor's work. That artwork goes home with you as a souvenir. The space is private, reserved just for your group, so there's no pressure from other participants and no waiting for materials or space to work.

No experience is required, and the workshop welcomes all ages and fitness levels. The instructor speaks English and Japanese, so language is not a barrier. Public transportation stops nearby if you're traveling without a car.

What’s included

• 90-minute private workshop with a local instructor.
• all authentic calligraphy materials (brushes, ink, paper).
• personalized instruction in brush techniques and character writing.
• one finished calligraphy artwork to take home as a souvenir.
• instruction available in English or Japanese.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day8 departure times: the first at 07:00, the last at 21:00

AgesAdult (18 to 60 years) · Senior (61 to 80 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (6 to 11 years) · Infant (under 6)

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Japanese

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

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48h

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Hiroshima-artbit

Is this one for you?The workshop is 90 minutes of seated, hands-on work with no walking or physical exertion required, so it suits anyone who wants to learn a traditional art without a strenuous pace. Book this if you want a quiet cultural activity you can do with your own group, away from crowds.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

2 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Japanese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (6 to 11 years); Infant (under 6).

What exactly do I learn in a Japanese calligraphy workshop?

You learn the fundamentals of shodō, starting with how to hold the brush and control ink flow, then practicing basic strokes and simple Japanese characters. The instructor explains the cultural meaning behind the forms, so you understand not just the technique but why each stroke matters in the tradition.

Do I need any experience to join this workshop?

No prior experience is required. The workshop is beginner-friendly and designed for anyone interested in Japanese culture, including families and travelers encountering calligraphy for the first time.

What do I get to take home?

You take home the finished calligraphy artwork you create during the workshop. A handmade souvenir you've made yourself with the instructor's guidance.

Is this workshop private, or will I be with other groups?

The workshop is private by reservation, so you and your family or friends have the space to yourselves without sharing it with other guests.

What materials are included in the workshop?

All materials are included: authentic brushes, ink, and calligraphy paper. You don't need to bring anything except yourself.