Manga Workshop in Hongo, Tokyo | Learn from a Professional Manga Artist in a Traditional Japanese House (2 Hours)

Learn Hand-Drawing Techniques from a Professional Manga Artist at Tokyo Manga Sensei

This experience is run by Tokyo Manga Sensei, a studio operated by a company with more than 40 years of experience editing and producing manga and books. In an age when so much has gone digital, they started the class to pass on the craft of drawing by hand with pen and ink.

During the roughly two-hour lesson, you'll complete a single piece of artwork under the guidance of a professional manga artist. Groups are kept small, so the instructor can watch how you draw and answer your questions on the spot.

All art supplies are provided, and an English interpreter is on hand. Whether you've never drawn manga before or already have some experience, you can work at your own level.

First, Slip Off Your Shoes and Step into a Japanese House

The venue is a traditional Japanese house in Hongo, Tokyo. Take off your shoes at the entrance, and you'll find yourself in rooms with shoji paper screens and tatami mat floors.

Getting to step inside a real Japanese home and see how it looks is one of the special features of this class. Once you've taken in your surroundings, head to the worktable lined with art supplies.

The nearest station, Hongo-sanchome, is served by the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and the Toei Oedo Line. You could join a morning lesson and spend the afternoon sightseeing around Tokyo.

Next, Talk to Your Instructor About What You'd Like to Draw

Beginners can start with a ready-made sketch. If you're used to drawing, you're welcome to try an original illustration instead.

Let your instructor know about your experience and what you'd like to do — for example, "I've never used a manga pen before" or "I want to draw a character I created." You'll be taught in a way tailored to you.

If you're joining with family or friends, there's no need for everyone to have the same experience or skill level. Each person can discuss what they want to work on.

Once You're Ready, Draw Your Lines with Pen and Ink

All the tools used in real manga production are ready for you, including G-pen nibs, ink and manga manuscript paper. Once you've learned how to use them, try drawing lines on paper yourself.

Whether you're tracing a sketch or drawing freehand, you'll work with advice from your instructor. If your lines aren't coming out the way you want, just ask how to handle the pen.

With an English interpreter present, you can ask questions even if you don't speak Japanese. Beyond the tools, you can also ask about a manga artist's work and what goes on behind the scenes.

Then, Finish Your Artwork with Screentone and More

After inking, you'll finish your piece using screentone and other techniques. Your instructor will show you how, and you can try it out on your own page.

If you're working on an original piece or hoping to become a manga artist, you can also ask for advice on technique. It's a chance to have a professional look at your work.

As your page gradually comes together, compare it with how it looked when you started. Having done the work with your own hands, you'll start noticing the fine lines and finishing touches.

Finally, Take Home the Artwork You Drew Yourself

You can take home the artwork you create. If you come with family or friends, show each other your pieces and snap a commemorative photo together.

According to the organisers, some participants have bought pens and ink afterwards, saying they want to keep drawing once they get home. It might just become a hobby that lasts well beyond your trip.

After the lesson, explore the Hongo area, including the University of Tokyo and Yushima Tenjin Shrine. It's easy to combine about two hours in the studio with sightseeing in Tokyo.

Frequently Asked Questions

■ Can I join if I've never drawn manga or illustrations before? Yes. The professional manga artist tailors the lesson to your experience and skill. Beginners can start with a ready-made sketch and learn how to use the tools as they go.

■ Is it suitable for children? Yes. Children are also taught according to their own experience and skill level. For kids who dream of becoming manga artists, the instructor can offer advice from a professional perspective. Please check age and supervision requirements when booking.

■ Can I join on my own? Bookings normally require at least two people. According to the organisers, solo travellers can join as a private lesson by paying for two people. On dates when other participants have already booked, you may be able to join for the price of one. If you'd like to join solo, please check the dates and booking method before applying.

■ How long does it take, and what should I bring? The experience lasts about two hours. All art supplies are provided, so you don't need to bring anything special. Since ink is used, we recommend wearing clothes you don't mind getting a little messy.

■ Can I join if I don't speak Japanese? Yes. An English interpreter is included, so you can follow the instructor's explanations and ask questions about technique as you work.

■ Can I take my artwork home? Yes. You can take home the artwork you create during the experience.

■ Where is the venue? 4-37-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo. The class is held in a traditional Japanese house with shoji screens and tatami floors. Please check the meeting time and detailed directions in the information sent after booking.

Things to Check Before Booking

• Start time and meeting point on your preferred date
• Bookings normally require at least two people; contact the organisers in advance about joining solo
• Requirements for children's participation and supervision
• Clothing suitable for working with ink, and the cancellation policy for your booking plan

Prices, session times and plan details are subject to change. Please check the latest information before booking.

Summary

Pick up a pen, draw your lines in ink and finish with screentone. In about two hours, you can try with your own hands the techniques you've seen on manga pages.

Learn from a professional manga artist in a traditional Japanese house, and take home the piece you drew. Whether you're a complete beginner or want to improve your skills, why not add manga-making to your Tokyo itinerary?

Book here: Manga Experience in a Traditional Tokyo House.