2 Types of Japanese Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony

Crafting traditional Japanese sweets is a delicate art form, and this experience offers an immersive glimpse into two distinct styles – Ohigashi and Nerikiri. Participants will learn the intricate techniques behind these delectable confections, shaping and decorating them with precision. But the journey doesn’t end there; the serene matcha tea ceremony provides a tranquil conclusion, where guests can savor their handmade creations and discover the nuances of this revered beverage. Whether you’re a sweet enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this class promises to elevate your appreciation for the rich heritage of Japanese confectionery.

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Key Points

The experience includes making two types of traditional Japanese sweets: Ohigashi, made from Wasanbon sugar, and Nerikiri, using white and red bean paste.
Participants learn the intricate techniques of shaping, molding, and decorating the Ohigashi and Nerikiri sweets, emphasizing the artistry and patience involved.
The experience also includes a matcha tea ceremony, where participants learn to grind matcha powder and whisk it into a frothy green tea.
Participants can enjoy the handmade sweets alongside the matcha tea, experiencing the calming ritual of the tea ceremony.
The program includes optional fees for activities such as coloring sweets, take-out boxes, and completion certificates, as well as a helper fee for children needing assistance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

The experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of traditional Japanese sweets and tea ceremony.

Participants can expect a 125-minute program that includes three main activities: making dried-type Ohigashi sweets, seasonal Nerikiri sweets, and grinding matcha tea for a casual tea ceremony.

The price starts from Kč 693 per person, with availability depending on starting times.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

The meeting point is a 1-minute walk from Gojo Station, although the facility is wheelchair accessible but has no elevator, requiring use of stairs.

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Dried-Type Sweets: Ohigashi

Ohigashi, the dried-type Japanese sweets made from Wasanbon sugar, kick off the experience.

Participants will learn the traditional technique of making these delicate confections. Under the guidance of the instructor, they’ll carefully shape and mold the fragrant Wasanbon sugar into intricate designs.

The 20-minute Ohigashi making session allows guests to appreciate the artistry and patience required to craft these edible works of art.

With a satisfying crunch and delicate sweetness, the Ohigashi sweets provide a delightful introduction to the world of traditional Japanese confectionery.

Seasonal Sweets: Nerikiri

After the delicate Ohigashi sweets, participants move on to crafting the colorful and seasonal Nerikiri. This second part of the experience involves making two different types of Nerikiri sweets using white and red bean paste. Participants will learn the intricate techniques of kneading, shaping, and decorating these traditional confections.

Step	Time
Nerikiri Making	85 min
Shaping White Nerikiri	35 min
Decorating Red Nerikiri	30 min
Plating Finished Sweets	20 min
Total Time	85 min

Once complete, participants can admire their handiwork and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Matcha Tea Ceremony

After the intricate Nerikiri making, participants move on to the final portion of the experience – the Matcha tea ceremony.

They’ll learn the proper techniques for grinding matcha powder and preparing the traditional Japanese green tea. The ceremony includes:

Observing the tea master demonstrate the process
Individually grinding matcha using a traditional stone mill
Whisking the matcha into a frothy, vibrant green tea
Sipping the delicate, earthy brew
Experiencing the calming ritual of the tea ceremony

Participants can then savor their handmade sweets and tea, reflecting on the traditions they’ve just experienced.

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Schedule and Duration

The experience begins with an introduction to traditional Japanese sweets, followed by a 20-minute session dedicated to making Ohigashi, the dried-type sweets crafted from Wasanbon sugar.

After a 30-minute break, you will spend 85 minutes creating Nerikiri, two seasonal sweets made from white and red bean paste.

The final 40 minutes are devoted to grinding matcha and enjoying a casual tea ceremony.

Attendees will then have 10 minutes to savor their creations.

The total duration of the experience is 125 minutes, providing a well-rounded introduction to the art of Japanese confectionery and tea culture.

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Additional Costs and Fees

Along With the base price of the experience, there are several optional fees participants can choose to add.

These include:

Coloring the sweets for an additional 200 JPY
Purchasing a sweets take-out box for 100 JPY
Obtaining an experience completion certificate for 300 JPY
Paying a helper fee of 2,180 JPY for children needing assistance
Children under 2 years old can attend for free if sitting on their parents’ laps

Plus, the experience has a strict cancellation policy, with fees applying regardless of the reason, and travel expenses not being compensated.

Location and Accessibility

The meeting point for the experience is a 1-minute walk from Exit 1 of the Subway Karasuma Line’s Gojo Station.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, though there’s no elevator, and stairs are required. This traditional sweets and tea ceremony takes place in a historic building, offering an authentic cultural experience.

While the stairs may present a challenge for some, the venue’s central location and proximity to the metro station make it easily accessible for most visitors.

With advance notice, the organizers can accommodate special needs to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.

Important Policies and Information

Although the experience operates from 10:00 to 17:00, the team processes reservations made after 17:00 on the next day.

English translation is available upon request. The cancellation policy is strict – fees apply regardless of the reason, and travel expenses aren’t compensated.

Non-participants aren’t allowed inside during the experience.

Key policies include:

English translation available upon request
Strict cancellation policy with fees
No non-participants allowed during the experience
Reservations after 17:00 processed the next day
Experience operates from 10:00 to 17:00

Things To Know

Can the Experience Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

The experience can be customized for dietary restrictions. Guests can request vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options when booking, and the provider will accommodate their needs to ensure they enjoy the traditional sweets and tea ceremony.

Are There Any Age Limitations or Requirements for Participation?

The activity has no age limitations, but children under 2 can participate for free while sitting on their parents’ laps. There are also options to assist children who need help during the experience.

What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Experience?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, casual attire is recommended. Avoid excessively loose or dangling clothing, as you will be engaging in hands-on activities during the experience.

Can the Sweets and Tea Be Consumed On-Site or Taken Home?

Participants can consume the sweets and tea on-site during the designated eating/drinking time. However, they can also opt to take home the sweets made during the experience for an additional fee.

Are There Any Special Instructions for the Tea Ceremony Portion?

The tea ceremony portion involves grinding matcha tea leaves and participating in a casual tea ceremony. Participants will learn proper techniques for preparing and drinking the matcha tea on-site during the experience.

Sum Up

Participants will craft traditional Japanese sweets and savor a matcha tea ceremony in this immersive 125-minute experience. They’ll learn the art of Ohigashi and Nerikiri-making, honing their shaping and decorating skills, before enjoying their handmade treats during a tranquil matcha tea ritual. This session offers a serene journey into the delicate world of Japanese confectionery and tea culture.