TRAVELING JAPAN

Tokyo · Kyoto

Wood Chopsticks Making

Shape Your Memories, Craft the Tradition.

Craft your own wooden chopsticks and discover the artistry of traditional Japanese craftsmanship through a hands-on experience.

Beyond Just a Souvenir

More than a craft,
a moment of mindfulness

At ZEN Craft, crafting is more than making. It is a moment to slow down.

Rooted in Japanese traditions of simplicity and care, each pair of chopsticks reflects patience, intention, and personal expression.

As you shape the wood with your own hands, you enter a quiet and focused process, transforming raw material into something uniquely yours.

Authentic Craft, Wherever You Go

Choose Your Studio

Select the ZEN Craft Chopsticks Studio that best fits your itinerary and enjoy an authentic Japanese chopsticks-making experience.

Amazing workshop with Koji!

Hands-on, relaxing and rewarding. We loved learning about the craftsmanship and tradition behind Japanese chopsticks while creating a pair that was uniquely our own — a meaningful souvenir.

Cassie KJun 2026

Memorable day in Japan

Yin was an amazing and patient instructor. From selecting the wood to planing, sanding, engraving and oiling, our group aged 10 to 60 all had an unforgettable experience.

Amanda RJun 2026

A wonderful, personal experience

The atmosphere was warm and welcoming and our teacher Koji was amazing and kind. We carved our own chopsticks and had them engraved — a lovely souvenir you can actually use.

Oda BMay 2026

Fun time making chopsticks

A fun, simple process where you can truly customize your chopsticks. The atmosphere is calm and friendly, the price is low for what you get, and you are given as long as you need.

Walker LJun 2026

Such a fun family activity

Beautiful wood types to choose from and no rush. Our 9 and 13 year olds completed theirs with advice from the staff, and we all came away with unique sets. Highly recommend!

Kate BApr 2026

What To Expect

Experience Overview

01
10 min

Choose

Selecting Japanese wood

Begin your journey with a brief introduction to the craft, tools, and techniques. Then select the wood and style that best suits you.

  • Choose your preferred Japanese wood
  • Introduction to the craft and tools
  • Select your chopstick style (round or square, thick or slim)
02
30 min

Shape

Shaping chopsticks by hand

Using a traditional Japanese hand plane, carefully shape your chopsticks by hand under the guidance of our instructors.

  • Shape and refine your chopsticks
  • Use traditional Japanese woodworking tools
  • Step-by-step guidance throughout
03
20 min

Sand & Oil

Sanding and oiling the chopsticks

Sand and finish your chopsticks until they feel smooth and comfortable in your hands. Then apply a natural oil to protect the wood and enhance its beauty. You may also add a personalized engraving to make them truly your own.

  • Sand and smooth the surface
  • Apply natural oil to protect and enrich the wood
  • Optional personalized engraving
04

Take Home Your Creation

Finished chopsticks ready to take home

Your handcrafted chopsticks are ready to take home immediately. A practical souvenir and a lasting reminder of your time in Japan.

  • Take home your finished chopsticks
  • Allow the oil to dry for at least 24 hours before use
  • A unique keepsake crafted by your own hands

Why ZEN Craft

Designed for International Guests

From selecting your wood and shaping it by hand to finishing your own pair of chopsticks, every detail of the workshop is thoughtfully designed for travelers discovering Japanese craftsmanship for the first time.

Clear guidance, a welcoming atmosphere, and hands-on learning come together to create a memorable and meaningful cultural experience.

1

English-Guided

Enjoy the experience with clear, easy-to-understand English guidance. Follow each step with confidence from start to finish.

2

Hands-On Crafting

Create your own souvenirs step by step using real tools. A fully immersive experience where you craft with your own hands.

3

Beginner-Friendly

No experience needed, anyone can join and enjoy. Designed to be simple, relaxing, and easy to follow.

4

Take Your Work Home

Everything you create is yours to keep! A lasting, tangible memory of your journey through Japan.

What's Included

Craft a Pair That's Uniquely Yours

Per Person — From

¥1,000

tax included

Optional upgrades:Premium wood options & engraving

Included

  • 45–60 minute hands-on chopsticks-making experience
  • Choice of two standard Japanese wood types
  • Traditional woodworking tools and materials
  • Full guidance from an English-speaking instructor
  • Your own handcrafted pair of chopsticks to take home

Not Included

  • Premium Japanese wood options (available for an additional fee)
  • Personalized engraving service (available for an additional fee)

Find Your Answer

FAQ

Yes. We strongly recommend booking in advance, as workshop sizes are intentionally kept small to ensure a personal and hands-on experience.

Walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability, but advance reservations are recommended.

Yes. Please contact us 24 hours before the starting time if you need to modify your booking.

Cancellations made more than 24 hours before your reservation are free of charge. For cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled time, including same-day cancellations, the full fee will be charged. We appreciate your understanding as materials and seating are prepared in advance.

This hands-on Japanese craft workshop allows you to create your own pair of wooden chopsticks using traditional tools and techniques while learning about Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

Yes. Chopsticks are an essential part of daily life in Japan, and this workshop offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional craftsmanship firsthand.

Creating your own chopsticks is a meaningful way to connect with Japanese culture while taking home a practical souvenir you can use for years to come.

No. The workshop is designed for beginners and first-time visitors.

Not at all. Our instructors guide you step by step throughout the experience.

Yes. Solo travelers are welcome and regularly join the workshop.

Yes. The experience is family-friendly and suitable for both adults and older children.

Yes. The Chopstick Making Experience is suitable for guests aged 5 and above. Children are welcome to participate when accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian. Please note that parents or guardians are responsible for supervising their children throughout the activity, as our instructors are not able to provide full supervision.

You will shape, plane, sand, and finish your own pair of wooden chopsticks using traditional Japanese woodworking tools.

Yes. You can choose the shape, thickness, and finish to create a pair that suits your preferences.

Yes. Personalized engraving is available as an optional add-on.

Yes. Two standard Japanese wood types are included, and premium wood options may be available for an additional fee.

The experience typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.

Yes. Your chopsticks will be completed during the workshop and ready to take home immediately.

We recommend allowing the oil finish to dry for at least 24 hours before regular use.

Yes. The materials and finishes used are suitable for chopsticks intended for everyday use.

Yes. The entire experience is guided in English.

Yes. Our instructors provide guidance and support from start to finish.

Absolutely. The experience is specifically designed for travelers visiting Japan.

Yes. The workshop takes place in a comfortable indoor studio.

Yes. The space is climate-controlled and comfortable year-round.

Please check the booking page for the latest location details and availability.

We accept major credit cards and debit cards online. Cash may be accepted for walk-in guests, subject to availability.

Depending on your booking method, payment may be made online in advance or at the venue.

Yes. Photography is welcome throughout the experience.

Yes. Personal video recording is generally permitted unless otherwise advised by staff.

Yes. You will leave with a handcrafted pair of chopsticks that you created yourself.

Yes. Private workshops can be arranged for families, groups, and special occasions.

Yes. We regularly host corporate groups, incentive trips, and team-building events.

Group sizes vary depending on availability and requirements. Please contact us for details.

Yes. The workshop is beginner-friendly and provides a hands-on introduction to Japanese culture and craftsmanship.

Traditional craft workshops such as chopsticks making offer a deeper cultural experience than typical sightseeing, allowing visitors to create something meaningful with their own hands.

Rather than simply observing Japanese culture, you'll become part of it. This interactive experience lets you craft your own chopsticks using traditional techniques, gain insight into Japanese craftsmanship, and leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir made entirely by your own hands.

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Take Home More Than a Souvenir

Ready to craft your own chopsticks?

From selecting Japanese wood to shaping and finishing your own pair of chopsticks, ZEN Craft offers a hands-on connection to one of Japan's most enduring craft traditions.

Choose your studio

¥1,000

per person · tax included