VISIT KANAZAWA, JAPAN - Official Travel Guide

Gyotaku, the traditional Japanese art of fish printing, was born in Japan in the 1800s.

Originally, fishermen used gyotaku to record when, where, and what kind of fish they caught—a practice that later evolved into a unique cultural art form.

In this hands-on experience, you will work with a real fish, using sumi ink and traditional washi paper to carefully capture its shape and delicate scales.

It is more than an art activity—it is a quiet moment to connect with Japan’s nature and its long-standing respect for the sea.

Gyotaku experiences are available in only a few locations across Japan, making this a rare and meaningful cultural encounter during your journey.

Your finished artwork becomes a one-of-a-kind souvenir, preserving your time in Kanazawa in a form that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world.

Through this experience, you will feel Japan’s deep appreciation for nature, craftsmanship, and tradition—passed down through generations.

After the workshop, we will serve a small appetizer prepared with fresh fish from Ishikawa Prefecture, allowing you to enjoy local flavors connected to the experience itself.

Experience Flow

3:00 PM Start

→ Introduction to the history and story of Gyotaku

→ Explanation of the fish used that day

→ Live demonstration

→ Hands-on Gyotaku printing

→ Final touches and signing

→ Your personal Gyotaku artwork is complete

Venue

Studio Cafe by D’s Kitchen

23-24 Takaoka-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0864

Please note that the venue may be subject to change.