Yanaka Bento-Making Class & Calligraphy Workshop (Tokyo)

Only a few blocks away from the bustle of Nippori Station you’ll feel transported into a different time and place in Tokyo’s Yanaka area. A prime example of the capital’s “shitamachi” — a traditional, slow-paced working-class neighborhood — the nostalgic streets of Yanaka retain the charm of Old Tokyo. Easily accessible from Ueno and Nippori, this is a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking for a destination with fewer crowds that’s still close to Tokyo’s most popular tourist areas.

But don’t just stroll through Yanaka when you can also immerse yourself in its traditions — like cooking and calligraphy. Led by local hosts, you’ll first learn to make Japanese home cooking staples in a cooking class. You’ll learn to shape onigiri rice balls and complete your meal with side dishes (okazu) from popular neighborhood shops and assemble your bento and customize it for maximum cuteness. You’ll then enjoy your meal with a warm bowl of miso soup.

After lunch, you’ll take part in a Japanese calligraphy workshop. A calligraphy master will teach you how to write basic characters, and you’ll then choose your favorite one to write on colored paper, a unique artwork you’ll get to keep as a souvenir. If you’d like, you can also have your calligraphy artwork transferred onto a T-shirt or bag for an additional fee.

This experience allows you to experience the traditional culture and home cooked foods of Yanaka, learn about Japanese calligraphy and spend time with friendly locals.