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Calligraphy

Master the art of Chinese brushwork in a guided 2-hour session.

Experiences/Calligraphy

Calligraphy

Hangzhou Xihu
1 days
(20 reviews)
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✍️ Immerse in the timeless art of Chinese calligraphy, nestled in the poetic West Lake surroundings. Perfect for curious travelers seeking deeper cultural connection—not just another photo op.

What's Included

Personalized Planning

Customized assistance based on your specific travel needs

Real Local Support

Connect with local experts who know the area

App & Ticket Setup Made Easy

Help with local apps like Alipay and WeChat setup

Worry-Free Travel

24/7 support for peace of mind during your trip

Itinerary

No itinerary available for Day 1

More about the experience

🌟 Highlights

  • Guided Calligraphy Session by a Master Teacher

Learn foundational brush strokes, correct posture, character balance, and rhythm—a personalized half-day with an experienced local calligraphy instructor. Chinese calligraphy is more than writing: it’s meditation, aesthetic, and self-discipline combined.

  • Inspiring Studio Overlooking West Lake

A quiet lakeside setting enhances mindfulness, letting you focus on each stroke while surrounded by Hangzhou’s serene beauty.

  • Create Your Own Authentic Souvenir

Produce your own calligraphy piece: choose a meaningful character or poem, brush it on high-quality rice paper, and frame it—carry home your art and memory.

  • Cultural Deeper Dive

Learn about calligraphy’s history and philosophy—how Chinese characters evolved from ancient scripts, and why writing is considered a spiritual art.


📍 Itinerary Schedule

Time

Activity

09:00–09:15

Meet at a studio near West Lake, introduction and tea welcome

09:15–10:00

Basic strokes practice: vertical, hook, dot, horizontal under teacher guidance

10:00–10:45

Practice full characters (e.g., “龍 Dragon”, “夢 Dream”)—with expert feedback

10:45–11:15

Brush-work scroll creation and free writing

11:15–11:45

Explanation of calligraphy history, cultural stories, and session Q&A

11:45–12:00

Tea ceremony & presentation of your framed piece


🔥 Why It Stands Out

  • Authentic Cultural Immersion

Practice calligraphy with a master in the peaceful West Lake district—not a rushed tourist demo but a meaningful skill session. Hangzhou has served as the cultural muse for poets and artists for over 1,700 years.

  • Mindful & Meditative

Calligraphy promotes concentration, discipline, and patience—reflecting Chinese values and offering a calming counterpoint to sightseeing.

  • Creative Keepsake

Your final artwork (scroll or framed character) is both a craft and a memory—a one-of-a-kind souvenir rooted in personal participation.

  • Expert Instruction in English

Beginner-friendly class led by someone experienced teaching international travelers—clear feedback and cultural context throughout.

  • Affordable+Unique

At $89, this session combines art, cultural storytelling, serene venue, guided instruction, and tea refreshment—far more immersive than typical workshop experiences.


✅ What’s Included

  • Private English-speaking instructor & calligraphy master

  • All materials—brush, ink, high-grade rice paper, desk setup

  • Framed calligraphy piece to take home

  • A small Longjing tea/refreshment served in studio

  • English calligraphy history handout/booklet


🗣 Testimonials

“I never knew writing a single character could feel like painting. Mindful, challenging—and I got to frame my own writing!”
“The silence of West Lake really helps me focus. It felt meditative, almost spiritual.”
“Great balance of learning, relaxation, and culture in just two hours.”


🧭 More Insight – Beyond the Brush

  • Hangzhou is home to the historic Xiling Seal Art Society, rooted in calligraphy and seal carving traditions. A perfect combo for cultural explorers.

  • The artistic atmosphere of West Lake has inspired classical poets for centuries—the natural landscape enhances the experience of brush & ink.

Hear From Our Clients

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

5/5

Amazing calligraphy experience! The master teacher was so patient and knowledgeable. I learned so much about Chinese culture and created a beautiful piece to take home.

Posted: 2025/07/23

Sandra Daniels

Sandra Daniels

5/5

Absolutely loved this cultural experience! The West Lake setting was perfect and the tea ceremony at the end was a wonderful touch. Highly recommend!

Posted: 2025/07/27

Karen Ortiz

Karen Ortiz

5/5

Such a peaceful and meditative experience. The instructor explained the history beautifully and I felt so connected to Chinese tradition. My artwork turned out better than expected!

Posted: 2025/08/01

user_435

user_435

5/5

Perfect activity for anyone interested in Chinese culture. The studio overlooking West Lake was breathtaking and the master was incredibly skilled. Worth every penny!

Posted: 2025/07/22

Jose Peterson

Jose Peterson

5/5

What a unique and authentic experience! I never thought I could create something so beautiful. The framed piece is now hanging in my living room as a treasured memory.

Posted: 2025/07/14

user_447

user_447

5/5

Incredible attention to detail and such a calming atmosphere. The teacher helped me understand not just the technique but the philosophy behind calligraphy. Unforgettable!

Posted: 2025/07/23

Eddie Jordan

Eddie Jordan

5/5

Best cultural activity I did in Hangzhou! The combination of learning, creating, and the beautiful location made this truly special. The tea at the end was delicious too.

Posted: 2025/07/18

user_477

user_477

5/5

So much more than just a tourist activity - this was a real cultural immersion. The master shared fascinating stories about Chinese history and art. Highly educational!

Posted: 2025/07/20

Ruth Dunn

Ruth Dunn

5/5

Perfect for beginners! I had no experience with calligraphy but felt confident by the end. The personalized instruction made all the difference. Great value for money.

Posted: 2025/07/28

Jessica Lewis

Jessica Lewis

5/5

The studio setting was magical and the instructor was a true artist. I learned about brush techniques and Chinese philosophy. This experience exceeded my expectations!

Posted: 2025/07/28