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Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
1. Enter a Working Hanko Atelier
See where professional Japanese seals are actually created and discover the tools, materials and techniques used by the craftsmen.
2. Meet a Fourth-Generation Engraver
Meet the artisan carrying on a family tradition that began in 1898.
3. Discover Japanese Hanko Culture
Learn in English about the history of hanko, Japanese characters, seal design and the role seals have played in Japanese life.
4. View Award-Winning Works
See exceptional seal engravings, including works recognized with Gold Prizes in national competitions.
5. Carve Your Own Stone Seal
Learn the basic technique of seal carving and create your own stone seal under the guidance of a professional engraver.
6. Make Your First Impression
Apply traditional red ink and reveal the impression you have created.
Take your stone seal home as a personal piece of Japan — made by your own hands in a fourth-generation Kamakura atelier.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Take the west exit of JR Kamakura station, turn left and walk down Onari street. Turn left at the first big 5 way intersection. Kamakura Hanko is on the right side of the street.
What to expect
Founded in 1898, our family atelier has preserved the art of Japanese seal engraving for four generations.
Meet a fourth-generation engraver and Nationally Certified First-Grade Hanko Engraver, and learn how Japanese seals are designed, carved, finished and used.
Inside the atelier, you will see the traditional engraving tools still used by the craftsmen today, learn about the production process, and view award-winning works created for national engraving competitions.
Through an English presentation, discover the history of hanko and why seals have represented identity and personal expression in Japan for generations.
Then it is your turn.
With guidance from the engraver, carve your own stone seal and experience the delicate process of creating an impression by hand.
Finally, apply traditional red ink and make your first impression on paper.
More than a craft workshop, this is an opportunity to meet the artisans, enter their working atelier, and experience a living Japanese tradition firsthand.
The price includes only the stone seal.
Additional info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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