Check out our list of the most relaxing and popular traditional Japanese hobbies you can try at home to feed your curiosity & wanderlust.
PIN me for later
Popular Traditional Japanese Hobbies Everyone Should Try
* Disclaimer: Some links on AsianaCircus.com are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase we may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you).
There are some truly amazing Japanese hobbies that everyone should try. Most of the hobbies on our list are centuries old and have been making people’s lives better in a multitude of ways.
Explore Japanese hobbies that will make you move, help you relax and recharge, or fill your stomach with delicious treats. You’ll surely find a Japanese hobby that will soon become one of your favorite pastime activities.
On our list, you will find some of the most popular pleasure activities Japanese people enjoy like origami, kendo, kintsugi, and more. We also collected the best places and ways to help you start enjoying these traditional Japanese hobbies at home.
Thankfully most Japanese hobbies are also budget-friendly so you can get started even if you’re on a tight budget. In some cases, you can get started for free. These fun hobbies can help you with improving both your physical and mental health and can be practiced by adults and kids alike.
For example, origami is one of the most useful and fun hobbies that the whole family can enjoy together from age 3 to 100. Some of these Japanese hobbies will even help you spend some time outside in nature and will make you think more deeply and act more thoughtfully. These Japanese hobbies are also some of the most fascinating creative hobbies that make money.
So you can even earn some extra cash from home or start your own online business. No matter if you’re looking for a new hobby that will help you achieve more meaningful goals.
Or if you’re simply looking for a fun and interesting hobby that will feed your curiosity, you’ll find here a new exciting hobby you can get started with today from the comfort of your own home.
Remember that some of these hobbies and activities may require more time and effort to master than others, but they can also be a great way to explore Japanese culture and connect with others who share your interests.
Rakugo: it’s Japan’s comedy secret that’s been cracking folks up for ages. Picture this: one person on stage, armed with nothing but their voice, gestures, and a whole lot of hilarious anecdotes. It’s like stand-up comedy meets Japanese tradition, and it’s not just for the pros.
Rakugo is all about sharing funny stories and cracking jokes, making it the ultimate group hobby.
18| Learn How To Dress In Kimono & Yukata
Karaoke is the ultimate Japanese hobby that’s here to turn your mundane days into a rocking fiesta!
Karaoke is like your secret weapon for instant fun, and you don’t need any fancy gadgets to kickstart your vocal adventures – just you and your singing spirit.
Now, why should you give Karaoke a whirl? Well, for starters, it’s the ultimate icebreaker. Want to bond with your friends, family, or even those colleagues you only see during Zoom meetings? Karaoke is your go-to. It’s like the musical glue that brings people together.
And here’s a sneaky bonus: it’s a language-learning hack! Yep, you heard it right. With a library of songs in multiple languages, Karaoke is your ticket to becoming a multilingual superstar. Who knew singing along to Japanese pop hits could make you a language whiz?
But the magic of Karaoke doesn’t stop there. It’s your mood booster, your stress reliever, your one-way ticket to instant joy. Even if it’s just you and your showerhead microphone, Karaoke turns any dull day into a jammin’ session.
16| Japanese Ink Wash Painting AKA Sumi-e
Fun Ways To Learn About Japanese Culture & Traditions
Thinking about giving Sumi-e a shot? Well, you’re in for a treat. All you need are some basics – black ink, brushes, and rice paper. That’s it!
No need for a fancy studio or expensive gadgets. It’s art that fits right in your backpack. And hey, you can go solo or invite some pals along for the ride. Sumi-e is not just art; it’s a social soirée waiting to happen
15| Forest Bathing AKA Shinrin-yoku
basic kendo principles at home but you’d get the most out of this amazing sport if you sign up for classes and train with other people.
Or you can buy your own kendo armor or try to find a class where you can borrow everything you’ll need. You’ll need a Kendo Uniform and a Kendo Bokken (wooden Japanese sword). You can have fantastic online experiences thanks to Viator.
You can learn through live courses and ask all the questions you might have about Japanese martial arts. You can train online with the Samurais of Japan and can find many experiences under $20.
colorful cloths are suitable for everyday transportation and packaging as well. Depending on the size, you can wrap nearly anything you would want to take with you. For example, preparing a nice picnic couldn’t be easier than with Furoshiki cloths.
Mastering the art is not too difficult, but certainly very useful. If you enjoy painting and creating new patterns, you can start making your own Furoshiki cloth. You can also participate in a fun private online Furoshiki Workshop thanks to Viator.
Your expert instructor (who is in Tokyo, Japan) will teach you everything about the art of Furoshiki while you’re in the comfort of your own home. You can buy beautiful unique and hand-made Furoshiki on Etsy.
The Japanese dwarf trees are probably among the most well-known traditional Japanese hobbies you can think of. In most countries, it is considered to be a lavish hobby that will impress everyone.
Beyond that everyone loves the appearance of the tiny trees that look just like the giants on paintings. No matter how you decorate at home or in your office, a Bonsai tree will definitely be a good fit.
It isn’t just how great they look, it takes time, patience, and attention to keep those beauties in good shape. You can order a Bonsai tree today and begin your journey with these remarkable plants. They will definitely thank your hard work.
If you want to learn how to create stunning Bonsai trees you can buy this easy-to-follow Bonsai tree guide that will make your journey much easier and more enjoyable and everything you need is included in the box so you can also start growing your own Bonsai tree at home. What’s included in their box?
You’ll get the seed varieties, pots and trays, wood plant markers, soil peats, Bonsai fertilizer, and of course an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide and a digital guide as well. It’s not only a relaxing and creative hobby to start but also a unique gift idea for Japan lovers, gardeners, and anyone who loves caring for plants.
Learning a new language is always a superb hobby. By doing so you are doing yourself a huge favor. We aren’t just talking about exploring a new culture, but it also keeps your brain fit. Studies show that learning a language is among the best exercises one can do to improve memory and overall improve neuroplasticity.
You are going to find it on every list of how to improve your neuroplasticity. Furthermore, Japanese is an incredibly beautiful and complex language, therefore if you enjoy the challenge, you are in for a fantastic treat. Japanese culture is very popular around the world, so it is definitely a good conversation starter.
Also, in case you are planning to visit Japan, locals are going to adore you if you can engage in a conversation in Japanese. Get started at home and take online Japanese lessons for beginners.
9| Learn Anime Drawing
In case you are a huge fan of anime and Japanese culture, you are going to love drawing anime. If you are looking for the most common Japanese hobbies, anime is definitely on top. Even if you are not an anime enthusiast, you are still very likely to enjoy drawing cute, fun, or dark anime characters.
Drawing is another great exercise that can help your brain remain young. You can find dozens of amazing drawing courses that will help you learn how to draw anime.
Would you prefer to start drawing on paper or digitally? You have plenty of options, so grab a pen or pencil and start a new Japanese hobby today.
Shogi is definitely among the most popular Japanese hobbies and if you like chess, you are going to love this abstract board game too. It has been around since the 15th century and it is just as exciting as fun. Especially if you find a worthy opponent.
There is a good chance that walking around in parks you are going to find locals playing and always looking for new challenges. You are definitely going to make friends quickly with your Shogi knowledge in Japan.
In addition to all the social and mental benefits, Shogi boards are also beautiful. We are sure you are going to want one at home on display at all times. If you’d love to try Japanese board games then Shogi is a good place to start.
You can buy Shogi sets on Amazon and beautiful handmade Shogi sets on Etsy. Learn how to play Shogi:
7| Learn The Art of Matcha Making
When in Japan, you ought to try matcha tea and if you have the chance also visit a tea ceremony. Nothing is more soothing and captivating than making matcha. If you have trouble with relaxing, concentrating, and generally switching off, this is your new go-to activity.
You don’t have to love tea, enough if someone else in the family does. This beautiful ritual is one of the most beautiful traditional hobbies in Japan and one that replenishes the soul as well as your body. Just think of it as an active meditation while also making delicious matcha tea.
If you want to learn how to make matcha tea at home in the traditional Japanese way you’ll need a Japanese matcha set you can buy original ones on Amazon and stunning handmade sets on Etsy.
You can also take a live class ‘Green Teatime‘ Where a Japanese green tea expert will teach you everything you need to know about how to brew and enjoy a perfect cup of tea. You can ask your questions since your guide might be in Japan but speaks perfect English.
You can even practice Sado also known as Japanese tea ceremony, which is a traditional art that involves the preparation and presentation of green tea and is still one of the most popular hobbies in Japan. It emphasizes hospitality, respect, and harmony, and is often performed in traditional tea rooms.
ready-made online. Once the cord is done, you can start creating your own little sculptures or even jewelry.
Traditionally they were created for special occasions, but they also served as gifts to loved ones. You can surprise yourself or someone you love with these beautiful pieces. With one of the most captivating traditional Japanese hobbies, you can create something special while also relaxing and improving your concentration.
You can get started at home, you just need Mizuhiki paper strings which you can buy on Amazon. However, you can always buy beautiful handmade pieces on Etsy.
Learn more about Mizuhiki:
4| Learn How To Cook Japanese Food
Amazon, Japanese online cooking courses, and tips from locals to make finger-licking traditional Japanese home-cooked meals and authentic Japanese meals. Japanese cuisine is deservedly among the most beloved ones around the world.
Good news! Now vegans can enjoy the best of Japan as there are a number of great recipes that will taste just like the original but completely vegan. Do you enjoy Japanese sweets? In case you like to learn from the best you can check out Niki Nakayama’s Masterclass.
She’s a Japanese-American chef and owner of the Michelin-starred n/naka restaurant. You can learn from her how to become a pro at making beautiful and delicious modern Japanese dishes. You can go on amazing experiences in the comfort of your own home thanks to Viator.
They have many brilliant online workshops and classes for Japanese food lovers. You can learn about Japanese cooking, or learn how to make sushi cakes or mochi ice cream from Japanese food artists. Thanks to these amazing courses you’ll be able to make your favorite Japanese dishes and of course even the most popular anime food recipes.
3| Ikebana – The Art of Flower Arranging
SkillShare where you can take beginner-level courses and learn more about the art of Ikebana.
Or you can also order online every tool, and a full Ikebana kit on Amazon to help you get started at home easily. However, if you would like to buy handmade Ikebana arrangements to decorate your home you can do that too thanks to Etsy. Read more about Ikebana:
2| Shodo – Japanese Calligraphy
Amazon so you’ll have your own Japanese calligraphy set.
If you want to hang a custom handmade Shodo artwork on your wall head to Etsy. Thanks to Viator you can also participate in fascinating live one-on-one Japanese online calligraphy classes and learn from a Japanese Shodo expert.
On Etsy, you can even buy beautiful handmade origami artwork to decorate your home. It’s a really fun hobby for adults and kids as well so even the whole family can enjoy it together.
On Viator, you can also find fascinating Live online Origami Workshops you can take privately to learn more about the art of Origami from a Japanese origami expert. It’s also one of the best gifts for origami lovers of all ages.
By admin 
Fun Ways To Learn About Japanese Culture & Traditions
basic kendo principles at home but you’d get the most out of this amazing sport if you sign up for classes and train with other people.
</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/kintsugi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-and-artform-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/kintsugi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-and-artform-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-81399 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/kintsugi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-and-artform-Small.jpg” alt=”kintsugi – traditional japnese hobbies and artform (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Kintsugi repair kit for beginners which you can easily buy on and of course, some broken items you wish to fix.
</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Furoshiki-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Furoshiki-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81400 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Furoshiki-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Furoshiki – traditional japnese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/><noscript><img decoding=)
colorful cloths are suitable for everyday transportation and packaging as well. Depending on the size, you can wrap nearly anything you would want to take with you. For example, preparing a nice picnic couldn’t be easier than with Furoshiki cloths.
</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bonsai-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bonsai-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81401 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bonsai-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Bonsai – traditional japnese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
The Japanese dwarf trees are probably among the most well-known traditional Japanese hobbies you can think of. In most countries, it is considered to be a lavish hobby that will impress everyone.
</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Oline-Anime-Drawing-courses-How-To-Draw-Female-Hairstyles-Anime-Small-300×169.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Oline-Anime-Drawing-courses-How-To-Draw-Female-Hairstyles-Anime-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-80977 lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Oline-Anime-Drawing-courses-How-To-Draw-Female-Hairstyles-Anime-Small.jpg” alt=”Oline Anime Drawing courses – How To Draw Female Hairstyles Anime (Small)” width=”853″ height=”480″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
In case you are a huge fan of anime and Japanese culture, you are going to love drawing anime. If you are looking for the most common Japanese hobbies, anime is definitely on top. Even if you are not an anime enthusiast, you are still very likely to enjoy drawing cute, fun, or dark anime characters.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shogi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shogi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81411 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shogi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Shogi – traditional japnese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Shogi is definitely among the most popular Japanese hobbies and if you like chess, you are going to love this abstract board game too. It has been around since the 15th century and it is just as exciting as fun. Especially if you find a worthy opponent.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Matcha-making-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Matcha-making-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81409 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Matcha-making-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Matcha making – traditional japnese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
When in Japan, you ought to try matcha tea and if you have the chance also visit a tea ceremony. Nothing is more soothing and captivating than making matcha. If you have trouble with relaxing, concentrating, and generally switching off, this is your new go-to activity.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tsumami-Kanzashi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tsumami-Kanzashi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81412 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tsumami-Kanzashi-traditional-japnese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Tsumami Kanzashi – traditional japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Amazon and handmade ones on </p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Mizuhiki-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Mizuhiki-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81413 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Mizuhiki-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Mizuhiki – traditional Japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
ready-made online. Once the cord is done, you can start creating your own little sculptures or even jewelry.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Japanese-cooking-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Japanese-cooking-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81416 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Japanese-cooking-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Japanese cooking – traditional Japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Amazon, Japanese online cooking courses, and tips from locals to make finger-licking traditional Japanese home-cooked meals and authentic Japanese meals. Japanese cuisine is deservedly among the most beloved ones around the world.
</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Ikebana-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Ikebana-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81419 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Ikebana-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Ikebana – traditional Japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
SkillShare where you can take beginner-level courses and learn more about the art of Ikebana.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shodo-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shodo-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81421 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Shodo-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Shodo – traditional Japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Amazon so you’ll have your own Japanese calligraphy set.</p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Origami-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small-200×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Origami-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”size-full wp-image-81423 aligncenter lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Origami-traditional-Japanese-hobbies-Small.jpg” alt=”Origami – traditional Japanese hobbies (Small)” width=”480″ height=”720″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Amazon, and </p>
<p>” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/best-Japanese-Hobbies-1-150×300.jpg” data-large-file=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/best-Japanese-Hobbies-1-512×1024.jpg” tabindex=”0″ role=”button” class=”aligncenter wp-image-87273 size-large lazyload” src=”https://asianacircus.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/best-Japanese-Hobbies-1-512×1024.jpg” alt=”best Japanese Hobbies (1)” width=”512″ height=”1024″/></p>
<p><noscript><img decoding=)
Thank You For Reading!