Bento Lunch & Japanese Calligraphy in Tokyo – Make Onigiri and Create Your Own Shodo Artwork

3 hours

Easy

A heartwarming half-day cultural experience in Tokyo’s nostalgic Yanaka district: make your own onigiri, enjoy a homemade bento lunch, and learn Japanese calligraphy — all in a welcoming, local setting.

Looking for a Tokyo experience that’s personal, hands-on, and full of heart?
This unique combo experience in Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s most nostalgic and charming neighborhoods, invites you into the world of Japanese calligraphy (shodō) and home-style cooking — all in one delightful visit.

✍️ Part 1: Japanese Calligraphy (Shodō)

Start your experience by learning the beautiful art of Japanese brush calligraphy.
With the guidance of a kind and patient local teacher, you'll practice writing meaningful characters such as “peace,” “dream,” or your own name in Japanese.
You'll create a finished work on shikishi (traditional calligraphy board) that you can take home — a truly special souvenir.

🍙 Part 2: Onigiri Making & Bento Lunch

Next, step into the kitchen and learn how to shape and decorate your own onigiri (rice balls) using freshly cooked Japanese rice and seasonal ingredients.
Then, enjoy your homemade onigiri as part of a bento lunch, which includes a delicious variety of side dishes such as:

  • Teriyaki-style fish or tofu
  • Goma-ae (sesame-dressed vegetables)
  • Seasonal obanzai (Kyoto-style vegetable dishes)
  • Miso soup with handmade dashi

Vegetarian or vegan? No problem — we’re happy to accommodate.

Throughout the experience, you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality by local staff and instructors who are passionate about sharing the real heart of Japanese culture.
This is more than a class — it’s a chance to connect, relax, and feel the kindness and rhythm of everyday life in Tokyo’s old-town Yanaka district.

📍 Location: Yanaka, Tokyo (Taito-ku, near Ueno or Sendagi Station)
🕒 Duration: Approx. 2.5–3 hours
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: 2–6 people
🌐 Language: English
🌱 Dietary Info: Vegetarian/vegan options available upon request
📸 Photo-friendly & great for memory making!

🪜 Note: Part of the experience takes place on the 2nd floor of a traditional home (stairs only). Please let us know in advance if you have mobility concerns.
What's included?
    • Calligraphy instruction with all materials (incl. take-home shikishi board)
    • Onigiri-making lesson
    • Full Japanese bento lunch
    • Miso soup with dashi broth
    • English-speaking instructors
    • Warm, personalized hospitality in a Japanese home
    • Printed reference sheets (kanji meanings)
    Exclusions
      • Transportation to/from venue
      • Drinks other than tea or water. You can order drinks from our cafe!
      • Additional souvenirs (optional)
      Please note

        If you have any food allergies or you are on a special diet, please let us know when booking.

        • No prior experience needed in cooking or calligraphy
        • Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary needs in advance
        • Experience is suitable for ages 8+
        • The workshop is held in a traditional home; some parts are accessible by stairs only
        • Please arrive 5–10 minutes early


        What to bring
          • First-time visitors to Japan
          • Cultural travelers and food lovers
          • Solo travelers, couples, and small groups
          • Families with older children
          • Those seeking authentic, local connection in Tokyo