Miyajima Cooking Class, Tea Ceremony, and Calligraphy

Experience a combination of Japanese cultural activities during this experience on Miyajima (also known as Itsukushima), the famous “shrine island” across from Hiroshima City. This Miyajima Cooking Class, Tea Ceremony, and Calligraphy Experience even has a kimono wearing experience included!

First, you’ll get to try on a kimono of your choice. Then, you’ll enjoy a Japanese tea ceremony. The practice of “Sado” (“The Way of Tea”) is a refined practice that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. You’ll participate in the tea ceremony with a tea master, using local pottery from the Miyajima area, and learn how to drink and appreciate matcha tea. You’ll also learn about the history and ritual of tea ceremonies in Japan, and how to prepare your own matcha green tea.

Next, you’ll try your hand at Japanese calligraphy, “Shodo,” a relaxing and meditative cultural practice in Japan. Calligraphy takes patience and practice, so your guide will teach you techniques to create your own beautiful piece of writing. You can choose your favorite Chinese Character (kanji) from our sample and write your name in Japanese Alphabets (hiragana or katakana). Here, you’ll experience painting using a traditional brush and Japanese “Sumi” (ink). At last, you will choose a stamp to finalize your work. You will also get to take your artwork home!

Finally, you’ll find yourself making some simple yet delicious Japanese food during a mini Japanese cooking class. Whether it be sweets or an onigiri rice ball, the menu changes with the season and can even be catered to your preferences.

Japanese food and culture go hand-in-hand. It’s no wonder Japanese cuisine was named a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage! Enjoy the best of Japanese culture and join this Miyajima Cooking Class, Tea Ceremony, and Calligraphy Experience for a wonderful day trip from Hiroshima.