Learn&Eat Traditional Japanese Cuisine and Sake at Izakaya

Explore the rich culinary heritage of Japan through the "Learn&Eat Traditional Japanese Cuisine and Sake at Izakaya" program. In an intimate setting, you’ll indulge in a carefully crafted meal while learning about the historical significance of each dish. With a focus on sake pairing, this experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the artistry of Japanese cuisine and culture. Get ready to learn about a world of flavors and traditions.

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Key Points

Participate in a 2.5-hour culinary experience at an intimate izakaya, exploring Japanese dining etiquette, cuisine history, and sake.
Savor a 4-5 dish meal crafted by a chef with 60 years of Kyoto kaiseki experience, accompanied by a bottle of Japanese sake.
Engage in a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 10 participants, available in both English and Japanese.
Gain insights into the artistry and attention to detail in traditional Japanese culinary traditions through guided explanations and hands-on practice.
Enjoy a flexible booking with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a starting cost of $97.05 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

Participants can learn about traditional Japanese cuisine and sake at an intimate izakaya experience that lasts 2.5 hours.

The group size is limited to 10 participants to ensure a personalized interaction. The experience is available in English and Japanese at an izakaya located in Imazu, accessible via the Hanshin train.

Participants will learn about Japanese culinary history, dining etiquette, and sake, while enjoying a meal crafted by a chef with 60 years of experience in Kyoto kaiseki cuisine.

The tour concludes with a return to the Hanshin Imazu station.

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Pricing and Reservations

The cost for this traditional Japanese cuisine and sake experience starts from $97.05 per person.

Reservations can be made with flexible booking – no upfront payment is required. Participants can also enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This hands-on culinary tour is limited to only 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is offered in both English and Japanese, catering to a diverse audience.

Culinary Experience

Crafted by a chef with 60 years of experience in Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, the dishes served during this culinary experience provide participants with an immersive journey through traditional Japanese fare.

Guests learn about the history, etiquette, and sake pairings as they enjoy 4-5 different dishes, a main course, rice, and desserts. The meal concludes with a bottle of Japanese sake or non-alcoholic beverage.

While the tour is non-smoking, a slight tobacco odor may be present due to the afternoon operation of the izakaya.

Reviewers praise the warm welcome and refined cuisine, rating the experience a perfect 5/5.

Itinerary

Guests meet at the Hanshin Imazu station, then walk 3 minutes to the izakaya.

Upon arrival, they receive explanations about traditional Japanese meals and dining etiquette. Participants then practice these customs while enjoying 4-5 different dishes, including a main course, rice, and desserts.

One bottle of Japanese sake or non-alcoholic beverage is included. The tour concludes with a return to the station.

Extra drinks beyond the second incur an additional charge of approximately ¥600 each.

The experience offers an immersive introduction to Japan’s refined culinary traditions in an intimate, non-smoking setting.

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Additional Information

Tour participants can expect the tour to be thoroughly inclusive. The price covers the guide fee and meal expenses.

While one complimentary bottle of sake or non-alcoholic drink is provided, additional drinks beyond the second will incur an extra charge of approximately ¥600 each.

Guests should be aware of a slight tobacco odor in the afternoon, as the tour takes place in a working izakaya.

Nevertheless, the experience has received a 5/5 customer rating, with praise for the warm welcome and refined cuisine.

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Traditional Japanese Cuisine

A central aspect of the experience is the remarkable cuisine crafted by the chef with 60 years of expertise in Kyoto kaiseki traditions.

Participants will learn about the history and etiquette of Japanese dining as they enjoy 4-5 different dishes, including:

A main dish
Rice
Side dishes
Desserts

The meal is complemented by a bottle of Japanese sake or non-alcoholic beverage.

Guests will have the opportunity to practice proper dining etiquette as they savor the refined flavors and artful presentation of this authentic Japanese culinary experience.

Exploring Sake

Alongside the remarkable cuisine, the experience also explores the world of Japanese sake. Participants learn about the history, production, and varieties of this cherished Japanese beverage.

The knowledgeable chef explains the nuances of sake, from its rice-based origins to the diverse flavor profiles. Guests sample one bottle of premium sake or a non-alcoholic option, pairing it expertly with the meal.

This immersive sake experience enhances the culinary journey, providing a deeper appreciation for the art of Japanese drinking culture. The well-balanced progression of flavors and aromas elevates the entire gastronomic encounter.

Cultural Immersion

Beyond just savoring the exquisite cuisine, the experience at the izakaya offers an immersive cultural journey.

Participants learn about Japanese dining etiquette, such as:

Proper use of chopsticks
Appropriate dish-passing and serving techniques
Etiquette for interacting with the chef and servers

The guided tour also provides insights into the historical significance and evolution of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Guests gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and attention to detail that characterize this culinary tradition.

From mastering sake pairing to understanding the nuances of each dish, this experience delivers a comprehensive culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Venue Wheelchair Accessible?

The izakaya venue does not appear to be wheelchair accessible based on the information provided. There are no details mentioned about accessibility accommodations or features that would indicate the facility is equipped for wheelchair users.

Can I Request Dietary Accommodations?

Yes, you can request dietary accommodations. The tour provider is happy to cater to any dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options, upon advance notice. Just let them know when making your reservation.

How Much Should I Tip the Staff?

The tour doesn’t mention a recommended tipping amount. In Japan, tipping isn’t expected, as service charges are usually included. However, you could leave a small tip of around 10% if you’re satisfied with the service.

Can I Purchase Additional Sake to Take Home?

You can purchase additional sake to take home, but it would incur an extra charge of around ¥600 per bottle beyond the one included in the tour. The tour doesn’t provide a way to purchase sake for takeaway.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There’s no specified dress code for the experience. Participants can wear casual, comfortable clothing. The focus is on the culinary and cultural learnings rather than formal attire.

The Sum Up

The "Learn&Eat Traditional Japanese Cuisine and Sake at Izakaya" program offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich culinary heritage of Japan. Participants can indulge in a carefully curated meal, learn about dining etiquette, and explore the art of sake pairing, all while experiencing the cultural significance of Japanese cuisine in an intimate setting. This experience is a must-try for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Japanese culinary traditions.