Kanazawa: Samurai District Chopstick-Making Workshop

Make your own reusable wooden chopsticks in Kanazawa’s historic Nagamachi Samurai District. Learn about Japanese chopstick traditions and samurai history, then browse the onsite souvenir area.
Create your own wooden chopsticks in the heart of Kanazawa’s historic Nagamachi Samurai District. This approximately 60-minute workshop combines a hands-on Japanese craft with stories about the samurai who once lived in this atmospheric neighborhood.

Begin by choosing your preferred wood from the available selection. Your English-speaking instructor will show you how to use traditional hand tools to carefully shape your chopsticks. Smooth the surfaces and edges with sandpaper, then apply natural oil to protect the wood and reveal its natural color and grain. No previous woodworking experience is required, and your instructor will support you throughout the process.

As you work, learn about the role of chopsticks in Japanese daily life, dining etiquette, and gift-giving traditions. You will also hear about the history of Nagamachi, the Maeda family who ruled the Kaga Domain, and the lives and values of the samurai families who lived in this district. The workshop offers more than a craft activity: it connects your handmade item with the history and culture of Kanazawa.

At the end of the workshop, take home the chopsticks you created as a practical and personal souvenir. All materials, tools, natural finishing oil, and instruction are included, with no additional charges during the experience.

An onsite souvenir area is also available before or after the workshop. Browse a selection of Kanazawa-inspired items and purchase additional souvenirs if you wish. Souvenir purchases are completely optional and are not included in the activity price.

This relaxed experience is suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Children aged 6 and younger may join free of charge and make one pair together with a paying parent or guardian.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.