Private Japanese Hanko Seal Making with an Artisan, Tokyo Nakano

5.0
(5 reviews)
Tokyo, Japan

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Experience the rare blend of history and personalization at a 130-year-old traditional shop. Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, you will hand-carve your own "Hanko" seal—a symbol of identity in Japan—under the direct guidance of a master artisan. We began this workshop with a mission to preserve Japanese heritage and share the true essence of our culture with the world. We provide an interpreter to help you select meaningful Kanji for your name or something you like, ensuring a deep cultural connection. Finish by stamping your seal on your own brush calligraphy. This private workshop offers a unique piece of history you can use for a lifetime.

What's Included

Souvenir Gift Set: A deluxe case and a portable ink pad (shuniku) to take home.
Admission fee
Workshop Fee & Materials: All tools, wood, and materials needed for carving.
Custom-made Hanko (Seal)
Gratuities
Transportation to the Meeting Point: Train or taxi fares to Nakano.
Additional Shopping: Any extra items or high-end seal cases purchased at the shop.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Bashodo Inbo

The workshop is located at Bashodo, a traditional hanko shop. At the scheduled time, your guide will be waiting outside the shop. Please look for your guide in front of Bashodo. Once you meet, your guide will enter the shop together with you and assist you throughout the experience.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

130 Years of Tradition in Nakano. Enter a historic workshop in Tokyo that has preserved the art of seal-carving for over 130 years. The "Hanko" (seal) is Japan’s official signature, used for centuries by everyone from Samurai to modern citizens.

The Experience In this private session (max 4 people), you will:

History & Kanji: Learn the roots of Hanko and choose Kanji characters for your name based on their beautiful meanings.

Carve with a Master: Under the direct guidance of the shop owner—a master artisan—you will hand-carve your own seal. A dedicated interpreter ensures perfect communication. Don't worry, the master helps you with every stroke!

Calligraphy: Practice brush calligraphy and "sign" your work with your new Hanko.

A Unique Souvenir Your custom Hanko is a functional piece of art. We provide a deluxe gift set with an ink pad so you can use it back home to sign letters or art. It is a one-of-a-kind memento that lasts a lifetime.

Highlights

-Authentic 130-year-old shop
-Private workshop with an expert artisan
-English interpreter included
-Just minutes from Shinjuku

Join us to carve your own history and take home a personal piece of Japan.

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by New Tavy Corp. 株式会社ニュータビー

Tags

Honeymoon Packages
Art Classes
Craft Classes
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 5 5 reviews
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