Home Made Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class

Discover the art of traditional Japanese cuisine in the heart of Hiroshima. This hands-on cooking class invites you to craft homemade onigiri and prepare a classic miso soup, all while savoring the refined flavors of matcha tea and delectable Japanese sweets. With personalized guidance from a knowledgeable host, you’ll learn about the rich cultural heritage that makes this culinary experience truly unique. What secrets will you uncover as you explore the world of Japanese gastronomy?

Key Points

• This 2-hour cooking class in Hiroshima, Japan, teaches participants to make two types of onigiri, miso soup, and enjoy matcha tea with traditional sweets.
• The class is priced from $84.11 per person and accommodates up to 6 travelers, with a 5.0 out of 5 rating for knowledgeable hosts and cultural insights.
• The menu includes techniques for making onigiri, preparation of miso soup and matcha tea, and traditional Japanese sweets, with a complete lunch spread provided.
• The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with high chairs available for toddlers, and the meeting point is easily accessible in Hiroshima.
• Highlights of the customer experience include personalized instruction, creating custom chopstick holders, and a family-friendly setting with a play area for children.

Class Overview

The Home Made Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class is a unique culinary experience offered in Hiroshoma, Japan.

This 2-hour class takes place in a local cafe, where participants learn to make two types of onigiri, miso soup, and enjoy matcha tea with traditional Japanese sweets.

Priced from $84.11 per person, the class accommodates up to 6 travelers.

Reviews rate the experience 5.0 out of 5, praising the knowledgeable hosts, hands-on activities, and cultural insights.

The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats and high chairs available.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Menu and Inclusions

Along With learning the techniques of making two types of onigiri, the class also includes preparation of miso soup, matcha tea, and traditional Japanese sweets known as wagashi.

Participants will enjoy a complete lunch spread, with bottled water, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, and coffee/tea also provided.

The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and two high chairs are available for toddlers.

While the restroom isn’t wheelchair accessible, the cafe itself can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for this cooking class is 1-chōme-1-3 Sakaimachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0853, Japan.

The class ends at the same location. It starts at 10:30 AM and is accessible by wheelchair and stroller.

Infant seats and two high chairs for toddlers are available. The class is wheelchair accessible, but the restroom is not.

After booking, you will receive confirmation. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is received at booking for this cooking class.

The cancellation policy is straightforward – guests can receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the class begins, in the local Hiroshima time zone.

This class is designed with accessibility in mind:

1. Wheelchairs can enter the cafe, though the restroom may pose some challenges.
2. Strollers and infant seats are available, accommodating families with young children.
3. Two high chairs for toddlers are provided, ensuring a comfortable experience for the whole group.

Highlights of the Customer Experience

What did participants find most noteworthy about their experience at the Home Made Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class?

Travelers raved about the personalized instruction from the English-speaking host, Midori. She not only provided hotel pickup and drop-off, but also set up a play area for kids.

The class activities included making three types of onigiri, miso soup, and learning the tea ceremony while savoring Japanese sweets.

Participants received custom chopstick holders with their names in kanji.

Making Onigiri and Miso Soup

Participants in the Home Made Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class learned the traditional techniques for making two types of onigiri, the iconic Japanese rice balls.

Under the guidance of the skilled host, Midori, they carefully shaped the sushi rice into triangular and cylindrical forms.

The class then created an assortment of onigiri fillings, including:

1. Umami-rich salmon with salty onion
2. Subtly sweet pickled plum
3. Savory beef and onion

After assembling their onigiri, the participants enjoyed sipping warm miso soup, a quintessential Japanese comfort food, as they continued their culinary journey.

Matcha Tea Ceremony

Following the Onigiri and Miso Soup portion of the class, participants transitioned into the elegant Matcha Tea Ceremony.

The host, Midori, expertly prepared the traditional green tea, explaining the significance of each step. Participants observed the precise movements and learned about the cultural history behind the ritual.

They then had the opportunity to try their hand at whisking the matcha, creating a frothy, vibrant green beverage.

To complement the tea, Midori served traditional Japanese sweets, called Wagashi.

The serene, mindful experience allowed participants to fully enjoy Japanese tea culture.

Japanese Sweets and Cultural Explanations

After the serene Matcha Tea Ceremony, Midori served traditional Japanese sweets known as Wagashi.

These delicate confections delighted the senses with their:

1. Intricate designs that evoked the beauty of nature.
2. Delicate flavors that balanced sweetness and subtlety.
3. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth textures that complemented the rich, earthy taste of matcha.

Throughout the experience, Midori provided insightful cultural explanations, personalizing the class by creating chopstick holders with each participant’s name in Japanese characters.

This attention to detail and immersive experience made the class a true highlight of the Japan trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?

The cooking class may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans, as the menu includes miso soup, which often contains dashi made with bonito fish, and wagashi, which may contain animal-derived ingredients. Participants should check with the host regarding accommodations for dietary restrictions.

Can Participants Take the Food They Make Home?

Participants can’t take the food they make home from the class. The class is focused on the experience of preparing the dishes, which are consumed during the lesson. Any leftovers are kept by the hosts.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?

The class accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies. Participants should notify the hosts of any special dietary needs in advance, and the hosts will make appropriate adjustments to the menu items.

What Is the Level of English Proficiency Required?

The class hosts have excellent English skills and can accommodate participants’ needs. They provide personalized attention and cultural explanations throughout the experience, making it accessible for English-speaking travelers.

Can Participants Purchase Additional Items During the Class?

Participants can’t purchase additional items during the class. The experience is an all-inclusive package that covers the cooking class, lunch, beverages, and supplies. No extra purchases are available to make during the scheduled activity.

The Sum Up

This immersive Hiroshima class offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of crafting onigiri and preparing traditional Japanese dishes. Under the guidance of the knowledgeable host, Midori, you will not only create their own onigiri and miso soup but also experience the serene ritual of a matcha tea ceremony complemented by exquisite Japanese sweets, culminating in an authentic cultural experience.