Etegami – the traditional japanese
“Picture Letter” Experience
Etegami (絵てがみ), literally meaning “picture letter,” is a traditional Japanese art form that combines a hand-painted image with a few heartfelt words.
Through my Etegami workshop, I invite guests to experience this unique form of Japanese art, followed by a relaxing cup of matcha tea in a traditional Japanese setting.
Step into a traditional Kyoto machiya townhouse and settle onto authentic tatami mats to begin your unique Japanese cultural experience. Begin by learning about traditional tools—paints, brushes, postcards, and ink—and practice gentle brush techniques to clear your mind.
Select your favorite motif, paint it with Japanese watercolors, and add your own personal message. We can also guide you in choosing the best Japanese characters to express your feelings. Complete your masterpiece by carving a custom hanko stamp with your name.
After the lesson, relax with a bowl of matcha tea paired with seasonal Japanese sweets. Display your finished Etegami and take it home as a memorable souvenir.
Learn about tools
Explore paints, brushes, postcards, ink.
Practice techniques
Practice brush techniques, draw lines, clear your mind.
Paint your own art
celect your favorite image of some objects and paint it and add your own message.
Carve a hanko stamp
Make your name stamp, Hanko and personalize it.
Display & Take Home
Make a postcard and stamp, then take them home on a display board or send as a gift.
Relaxing with matcha tea
After the lesson, enjoy a bowl of matcha tea paired with seasonal traditional Japanese sweets.
About Etegami
Etegami often features everyday subjects such as seasonal items like flowers, vegetables, or scenes from daily life. Its charm lies not in artistic perfection but in its warmth and sincerity. Every stroke and word reflects the sender’s feelings at that moment — a gentle connection from one heart to another.
Workshop Details
- Adress:6-31 Jurakumawari-minamicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City
about 6–8 minute walk from Nijo Station - language:English
- Number of participants: 1–4 people
Bookings of 2+ are appreciated if possible. - Duration: Approximately 120 minutes
- Fee: 12,000 JPY per person
- Payment:
After submitting your reservation, we will send you a confirmation email with details on how to complete your payment via credit card or PayPal. - Cancellation policy:
A cancellation fee will be charged from 2 days before the workshop date. - Your reservation is confirmed once you receive our confirmation email.
host：Sayuri
As an Etegami artist and teacher, I have created illustrations for newspapers, designed logos, and published a picture book. I also work as a chef at a natural food café, where I enjoy expressing the beauty of each season through both art and cuisine. Through my work, I hope to share the gentle changes of nature and the warmth of everyday life in Japan.