Zagreb: Suminagashi Water Painting Workshop

When exploring Zagreb, many travelers focus on its historic squares, vibrant markets, and lively cafes. But for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience, the Suminagashi Water Painting Workshop offers a surprisingly soothing journey into Japanese art and mindfulness. Hosted by De Mari, this 2-hour session invites you to try your hand at the ancient technique of floating ink, a meditative process perfect for anyone curious about blending art with relaxation.

What makes this workshop particularly appealing is its combination of gentle creativity and cultural discovery. We love that it requires no previous artistic skill, making it accessible to all. Plus, the inclusion of herbal or fruit teas and calming music elevates the atmosphere, turning the session into a true moment of respite amid a busy trip. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t ideal if you’re seeking a hands-on, highly interactive class with a full art-making session—here, the focus is on the process and inner peace, not on creating perfect art.

This workshop is perfect for travelers who want to slow down, try something different, and take home a personal reminder of Zagreb’s quiet side. It’s especially suitable for those with an interest in Japanese culture, meditative practices, or simply a desire to add a peaceful, artistic activity to their itinerary.

Key Points

Relaxing and Meditative: The process of suminagashi encourages patience, attention, and a sense of flow, making it more than just a painting class—it’s a calming mental break.

Accessible to All: No prior experience necessary. Even if you’ve never held a brush before, you can create your own abstract, floating patterns.

Authentic Cultural Experience: Learning a traditional Japanese technique in Croatia offers a unique cultural crossover that many travelers find enriching.

Includes Refreshments: Top-quality herbal and fruit teas are included, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere during your session.

Take Home Art: You’ll leave with your own set of handmade, abstract water patterns—perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Flexible Booking: With options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later, booking is straightforward and low-pressure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Suminagashi Water Painting Workshop

The workshop is held at De Mari, where you’ll follow the entrance labeled “Boje i lakovi” and find yourself on the third floor—an unassuming entry that hides a peaceful oasis. Once inside, the environment is quiet and welcoming, with gentle music setting a relaxing tone. Guided by professional artists Jelena Kovaev or Dejan Kljun, you’re walked through each step of the suminagashi process.

The Technique: Suminagashi, meaning “floating ink” in Japanese, involves applying ink drops onto the surface of water, allowing the ink to form natural, undulating patterns. The surface tension keeps the ink afloat, creating abstract designs that are both unpredictable and beautiful. You’ll learn how to manipulate the ink and water to produce your own unique patterns, which you can transfer onto paper.

The Experience: As you create, you’ll probably find yourself focusing on each movement and appreciating the spontaneous, organic shapes that emerge. Many reviewers describe the activity as meditative and soothing. One person highlighted that “this process involves attention, patience, and a sense of rhythm,” turning the act of painting into a calming ritual rather than a task to perfect.

The Atmosphere: The inclusion of relaxing music and the option to sip herbal or fruit teas—carefully selected for their soothing qualities—complements the artistic process beautifully. This setting encourages a sense of inner peace, making it ideal for those seeking a mindful break from sightseeing.

Group Size and Guidance: The workshop is small enough to allow personalized guidance from the instructors, ensuring everyone feels supported. They cater to all skill levels and offer encouragement whether you’re a beginner or more experienced.

Duration and Timing: Lasting approximately 2 hours, the workshop’s schedule can vary—it’s best to check availability for specific start times. It’s a compact experience that fits easily into a Zagreb day, whether as a morning, afternoon, or early evening activity.

The Art and Its Cultural Significance

Suminagashi has roots in Japan dating back centuries, and its practice involves much more than just creating pretty patterns. Many participants find that the process fosters a sense of mindfulness—a form of artistic meditation that connects you to nature and your inner calm. The patterns you produce are entirely spontaneous, reflecting the natural flow of ink and water, which can serve as a metaphor for life’s unpredictability and beauty.

While you won’t leave with a masterwork, the value lies in the experience of creation and the contemplative mindset it cultivates. As one reviewer noted, “It’s more about the process than the product,” which resonates well with those wanting a break from hustle and bustle, even in a vibrant city like Zagreb.

Practical Details and Value

Cost and Inclusions: For a reasonable fee, you get all necessary materials—brushes, ink, water, and paper—and guidance from professional artists. The inclusion of top herbal and fruit teas adds a layer of comfort, making the experience feel pampering rather than purely educational.

Location and Accessibility: The workshop’s location in Zagreb is central enough for most travelers. However, transportation isn’t included, so plan your route accordingly. The atmosphere inside is cozy and accessible, though participants should wear comfortable clothes capable of handling possible ink splashes—though messes are minimal and easily cleaned.

Group Size and Atmosphere: The small group setting fosters a personalized experience, with plenty of space for questions and individual attention. The relaxed environment is perfect for those who prefer intimate, less crowded activities.

Language: Conducted in Croatian and English, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 10 or babies under 1 year old, ensuring a quiet, focused environment.

Cancellation Policy: A flexible booking policy allows for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, making it easy to adapt your plans if needed.

Authenticity and Overall Value

What stands out about this workshop is its focus on authenticity and mindfulness. You’re not just learning a craft—you’re engaging in a cultural practice that encourages patience, attention, and a sense of flow. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy a moment of tranquility in a lively city.

The cost reflects the value of expert guidance, all materials, and the peaceful setting. Compared to other activities in Zagreb, this offers a unique blend of culture, art, and relaxation—an experience that’s both memorable and genuinely calming.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil activity, those interested in Japanese art or culture, or anyone wanting to add a meditative, creative twist to their Zagreb visit. It’s also ideal for groups or couples looking for a shared experience away from busy sightseeing. However, if you’re after high-energy tours or highly interactive classes, this might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Zagreb Suminagashi Water Painting Workshop offers a rare chance to slow down, connect with an ancient art form, and enjoy a moment of calm amid a vibrant city. The focus on process, combined with herbal teas and soothing music, creates an experience that’s as relaxing as it is culturally interesting. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious traveler, it’s a gentle reminder that sometimes the best memories come from simple acts of patience and creativity.

If you’re after an activity that combines cultural discovery with mental relaxation, this workshop is a little gem worth considering. It’s a genuine, accessible way to add a peaceful, artistic dimension to your Zagreb adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: