5 Calligraphy Classes in Osaka Sorted by Hour and Price

1.Private Japanese Calligraphy Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 66 reviews · 1h 30m · from $51Our pick

In Namba, an English-speaking instructor guides your private group through Japanese calligraphy, from choosing a meaningful theme to writing kanji, adding your name, and stamping your initials. You practice brush strokes, learn how kanji can reflect your personality, and finish a colored-paper artwork. Families can request water calligraphy for children.

“Wa no ma, is the best sweetest person. We had an introduction to the Japanese way of writings and then to the art of calligraphy. A 100% worth experience to any traveler that was to dive deeper into the Japanese culture. If you are thinking about it just do it ☺️”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

2.Calligraphy Workshop in Namba, Dotonbori

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 57 reviews · from $49

Spend two hours learning shodo, the Japanese art of brush calligraphy, in Namba. Instructor Nao guides beginners through brush and ink techniques, while Stephen or another English-speaking interpreter explains the cultural meaning behind the characters. You will practice kanji or katakana, then write your own name on colored paper or a luggage tag to take home.

“We did this lovely calligraphy workshop in the Namba area of Osaka. We are a family of six with 4 teenagers. It was a really fun afternoon learning more about the history of kanji and also giving it a go ourselves. Much harder than it looks for sure. Stephen & co were very nice and informative and taught us a lot. We all really enjoyed this day a lot and brought our own handwritten names home as a lovely keepsake.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

3.Learning Zen of Japanese Calligraphy in kimono near Osaka Castle

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 53 reviews · from $43

At Samurai Honor in Osaka’s Joto Ward, you change into a kimono or hakama, learn basic shodo brush techniques from a professional teacher, and choose a kanji character to practice. Your name is translated into kanji on a wooden tag, and digital photos of your outfit and artwork are emailed to you. English is standard, with other languages possible by request.

“We had a wonderful time learning about the culture, history, and traditions of calligraphy and tea ceremonies. I would highly recommend coming here if you have a chance you're in Osaka. No Japanese needed, they teach you the brush strokes for each character and can let you choose your own if you like! The tea ceremony was an excellent experience and we had the opportunity to make our own tea. Thank you again everyone at Samurai Honor!”

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4.Private Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 50 reviews · 2h 15m · from $64

At Wa No Ma in Namba, Wanoma guides your private group through tea ceremony customs, matcha preparation, seasonal sweets, and Japanese calligraphy. You choose a kanji name based on your personality, practice the brush strokes, and take home your finished artwork. The calm, flexible format suits couples, families, and first-time visitors.

“This activity was one of the best things I have done while in Japan! I really got to truly feel and experience different parts of Japanese culture. It was very relaxing as well and the lady guiding me through the experience went above and beyond to ensure I had an unforgettable time. Can’t recommend enough!”

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5.Temple Tour and Traditional Calligraphy Lesson

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 24 reviews · 1 hour · from $20Best value

At Saishoji Temple near Yotsubashi Station, an English-speaking instructor and resident monks guide you through Japanese history, temple customs, breathing meditation, brush calligraphy, and a short matcha tea experience. You will write a favorite kanji on a mini shikishi, receive a kanji name card with its meaning, and take home a small ceramic plate.

“The staff were very polite and I was able to experience the experience with peace of mind. It was my first time trying calligraphy, but thanks to the easy-to-understand instructions, I was able to enjoy it. Through my time at the KOKORO SHINSAIBASHI TEMPLE Japanese culture experience, I gained a deeper understanding of traditional Japanese culture. The temple experience in particular allowed me to concentrate in a quiet space, which calmed my mind. I found the experience on Google Maps and participated alone, but it was still enjoyable even on my own. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone interested in Japanese”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →