Unique Cultural Experiences and Workshops to Try in Kyoto and Osaka for an Unforgettable Trip
Long time since my last blog post! Earlier this year, I had the privilege of having a 3-month contractual position to act as a cultural liaison where I sourced Japanese hospitality and tourism partners for the largest U.S. homestay brand. Using my expertise, I was able to collect quite a handful of cultural experiences that would be great for tourists and residents alike to try out.
If you’re looking to experience Japan beyond sightseeing, Osaka and Kyoto offer incredible hands-on workshops that celebrate traditional craftsmanship, sweets, and tea culture. These experiences are perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Japan’s artistry and history while also being ideal for English speakers, with many offering bilingual instruction and licensed professionals!
Here are some experiences that meet my criteria: licensed instructors, insured facilities, and English support.
Wagashi Issho: Traditional Japanese Sweets Making Course
📍 Kyoto
Website | Instagram | TripAdvisor
📧 wagashi.issho@gmail.com
At Wagashi Issho, you’ll learn to create wagashi , which is delicate, handcrafted Japanese sweets made from plant-based ingredients and designed to reflect the seasons. These classes combine art and flavor, and it’s run by licensed instructors passionate about preserving tradition. English-friendly and perfect for all skill levels.
Maikoya: Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience
📍 Kyoto
Website | Instagram | TripAdvisor
📧 gion@maikoya.com
Maikoya offers a tea ceremony experience that is foreigner-friendly and located in a convenient area in Kyoto City. You can even wear a kimono during the ceremony for a fully immersive experience. Maikoya has gotten extremely popular over the years, so make sure to make a reservation. There are other experiences also available at this location!
Yoshihiro Seika: Traditional Wagashi Making
📍 Kyoto
Website
📧 taiken@yoshihiroseika.com | ☎ 075-811-5554 (Japanese only)
Yoshihiro Seika is a smaller, intimate sweets-making experience where you can craft colorful seasonal wagashi under the guidance of an expert confectioner. Perfect for all ages! Same day reservations are possible, but reserving by phone is Japanese only.
Tea Ceremony Nagomi
📍 Kyoto
Website
☎ 075-205-4538 (Kanda Tomohiro)
Tea Ceremony Nagomi focuses on authentic chado, the Japanese “Way of Tea.” You’ll learn not just how to whisk matcha, but also learn the principles behind the art of making tea. English instruction available upon request.
Asahiyaki: Pottery Workshop
📍 Uji, Kyoto
Website
📧 sakuto@asahiyaki.co.jp | ☎ +81(0)774-23-2511
Founded in the 1600s, Asahiyaki offers hands-on pottery classes that connect guests to over 400 years of ceramic tradition. You’ll work with local clay and glazes used by tea masters for centuries.
Overall:
Whether you’re based in Osaka or visiting Kyoto for the day, these workshops are incredible ways to connect with Japanese culture through taste, art, and tradition.
If you’re a local business or instructor who offers similar certified experiences in the Kansai area, reach out! I’d love to collaborate or feature your work on fkamorena.com.
