Japanese Food Cooking Class in Asakusa, Tokyo

If you’re visiting Tokyo and craving an authentic taste of Japan’s culinary traditions, a sushi and matcha making class in Asakusa might just be the perfect fit. We’ve come across this highly-rated experience that promises a fun, interactive, and delicious dive into Japanese food culture — and it certainly seems to deliver based on rave reviews and detailed descriptions.

What we love about this experience? First, it’s accessible for all skill levels — no previous cooking experience needed. Second, it combines two iconic Japanese activities: sushi rolling and matcha whisking, giving you a well-rounded cultural snapshot. Third, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the process both educational and enjoyable. The only potential drawback? The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point independently.

This class appeals to solo travelers, couples, families, and friends alike — anyone eager to learn some practical skills and take home some tasty memories. Whether you’re into Japanese cuisine or just want a fun activity that’s both educational and tasty, this class ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic experience combining sushi making and matcha whisking
• No experience necessary — perfect for beginners
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the learning process
• Close to Sensoji Temple — ideal cultural stop during sightseeing
• Affordable price offers good value for a 3-hour hands-on activity
• Family-friendly — suitable for children and groups of all ages

What Makes This Cooking Class Special?

This Japanese Food Cooking Class offers more than just a chance to learn how to make sushi; it’s a cultural snapshot. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, the spot is ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a meaningful culinary experience.

The experience is split into two parts: matcha making and sushi rolling. The matcha session involves discovering the art of whisking the vibrant green tea in a traditional manner, which many reviewers highlight as a surprisingly meditative and enjoyable process. It’s a great way to understand the importance of tea in Japanese culture beyond just drinking it.

The sushi portion lasts around 1 hour and 50 minutes, and here’s where the real fun begins. Participants are guided step-by-step through preparing various types of sushi, including maki rolls and nigiri. The guides are praised for their patience and clarity, ensuring even first-timers can produce satisfying results. Several reviewers comment on how the instructors — such as Jun and Kazu — make the class both fun and educational, often adding humorous anecdotes and quizzes that keep everyone engaged.

The Itinerary in Detail

Matcha Making in Tokyo

The class kicks off with the matcha session. Here, you’ll learn about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and the proper way to whisk matcha using a bamboo chasen (tea whisk). One reviewer notes that the instructor, who is fluent in English, walks you through the process clearly, making it easy for everyone to follow along. The 1-hour session includes all ingredients and a detailed explanation of the significance of matcha in Japanese culture.

Expect a hands-on approach — you’ll be whisking, tasting, and maybe even chatting about the different types of Japanese tea. Several reviews mention how fun and relaxing this part is, with some describing it as a “meditative experience.” Plus, you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for matcha’s role in Japanese tradition.

Sushi Making in Tokyo

After the tea, it’s time for the main event: sushi preparation. Nearly two hours of guided instruction will have you rolling your own maki, shaping nigiri, and understanding sushi ingredients. The instructions are straightforward, and the instructors emphasize cleanliness, proper technique, and traditional methods.

One reviewer mentions that the class is so well organized that everyone ends up with “amazing sushi,” and they appreciated how the guides ensure you understand each step. The friendly atmosphere, combined with the fact that you get to make several types of sushi, makes this a satisfying, hands-on activity.

Participants often comment on the generous amount of sushi they produce, making it a delicious and filling experience. The ingredients are fresh and of good quality, contributing to the overall value of the class.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or with family, this class seems well-suited to a variety of groups. Families with children as young as 7 and 9 have joined and enjoyed making sushi together, with one reviewer praising their guide Kazu for keeping instructions clear and fun. Solo travelers have found it a fantastic way to meet new people, with reviews mentioning the friendly and humorous staff that create a lively, inclusive environment.

The class’s small group size (maximum of 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. Price-wise, at around $84.78 per group, it offers decent value for a memorable cultural activity — especially when you consider the quality of instruction and the delicious sushi you get to take home.

While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point is near public transit in Taito City, making it easy to reach from most parts of Tokyo.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

The reviews repeatedly emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience approachable and fun. The instructors’ humorous approach — with enthusiastic shouts of “Hoi Hoi Hoi!” during the sushi class — adds to the lively, authentic atmosphere. Reviewers mention that they learned not just how to make sushi, but also interesting facts about its history, which enriches the experience.

Some reviews highlight the stunning views of Asakusa and Sensoji Temple nearby, making this class a perfect cultural stop during your sightseeing day. The experience feels genuine, with participants truly engaging in traditional Japanese culinary techniques.

Price and Value

At $84.78 for around 3 hours, this class offers good value, especially considering the high level of instruction, the quality of ingredients, and the amount of sushi you’ll produce. It’s a hands-on activity that leaves you with skills you can replicate at home — plus a deeper appreciation of Japanese culinary arts.

The inclusion of all ingredients and the English-speaking instructor makes it accessible. The fact that you get to take home the sushi you make adds extra value, turning a fun activity into a practical skill.

Practical Considerations

• Meeting Point: 2-chome-17-9 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo — very close to public transportation.
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, which fits well into a sightseeing day.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.
• Price: About $84.78 per group, which offers good value considering the quality and quantity of food.
• Booking: Confirmations are sent within 48 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off: Make sure to plan your transportation accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This hands-on sushi and matcha class in Asakusa is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Japanese food and culture and enjoy engaging, interactive experiences. Families, solo adventurers, and couples will all find this a rewarding activity — especially those who enjoy food, learning new skills, or meeting new people.

If you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to spend part of your day in Tokyo that combines education, delicious food, and cultural insight, this class offers genuine value with lively guides and a warm atmosphere.

FAQs

Is previous cooking experience required?
No, this class is designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners.

How long is the class?
It lasts about 3 hours, with roughly an hour for matcha making and nearly two hours for sushi.

Are ingredients and utensils provided?
Yes, all ingredients and supplies are included in the price.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 7 or 9 have joined and enjoyed the experience.

Do I get to take my sushi home?
Yes, you will be able to enjoy your own freshly made sushi at the end of the session.

Is transportation included?
No, the activity begins at a specified meeting point near public transportation, so you will need to plan your travel.

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of expert guides, delicious food, and cultural insights makes this a memorable and educational activity for anyone eager to learn about Japanese cuisine.

In short, this Tokyo sushi and matcha class is a delightful way to deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture, learn practical skills, and enjoy some truly tasty food. It’s a well-organized, welcoming experience that leaves you with lasting memories — and maybe even some new recipes to try back home.