Make traditional sweets “Nerikiri” and matcha in Shibuya

Discovering the Charm of Making Nerikiri and Matcha in Shibuya

This review highlights a delightful hands-on experience in Tokyo, where you can learn to craft traditional Japanese Nerikiri sweets and enjoy a matcha tea ceremony. While I haven’t personally tried this activity, it’s been highly praised for its authenticity, friendly guidance, and cultural depth.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to create four different designs of Nerikiri—from seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms to playful characters such as Totoro—offers a perfect balance of artistry and fun. Second, the table-style tea ceremony with premium matcha and regional sweets promises a genuine taste of Japanese tradition. Lastly, the activity’s vegetarian-friendly approach allows more travelers to indulge in these sweets without concern.

A possible consideration? The activity is limited to participants aged 5 and above, so it may not suit very young children or those looking for a quick, solo activity. Still, it’s a wonderful choice for families, couples, and anyone eager to connect with Japanese culture in a creative way.

If you’re interested in authentic Japanese sweets-making combined with a relaxing tea experience, this tour could be a fantastic addition to your Tokyo itinerary.

Key Points

• Hands-on Nerikiri Making: Design four sweets with seasonal motifs or fun characters.
• Authentic Tea Ceremony: Enjoy matcha and regional Japanese sweets in a table-style setting.
• Vegetarian Friendly: The sweets contain no animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
• Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper appreciation for traditional Japanese confectionery and tea customs.
• Location & Convenience: Starts in Shibuya, a central and lively area, with a quick walk to the workshop.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with a cancellation policy allowing full refunds if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Meeting Point

The activity kicks off in the bustling neighborhood of Jingumae in Shibuya, right in front of CHUMS OMOTESANDO. It’s a convenient starting point for travelers exploring Tokyo, with easy access from major districts. After meeting your guide, you’ll walk just 20 seconds to the actual workshop, making the whole process seamless and stress-free.

The Nerikiri Sweet-Making

Creating Nerikiri involves working with sweet bean paste and rice flour, ingredients that yield delicate, beautifully crafted sweets. The guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, showing you how to mold and decorate your confections into seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms and maple leaves or playful characters such as Totoro or Pokémon.

One review captures the warmth of this part beautifully: “Hannah has been a true host. Very caring, hospitable, and friendly. My kids have really enjoyed the time spent in learning to make Japanese sweets.” This suggests the guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and attentive, making the experience relaxing and fun, especially for families.

The Creative Aspect

Designing your sweets allows for personal expression—whether you prefer elegant, traditional designs or lively, whimsical ones. The focus on seasonal motifs underscores Japan’s appreciation for nature and changing seasons, adding an authentic touch to your creations. Since Nerikiri is vegetarian, it’s accessible to a broad range of dietary preferences, which is a thoughtful feature.

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The Tea Ceremony and Tasting

After the sweet-making, you’ll sit down for a table-style tea ceremony. Here, the highlight is the matcha, the vibrant green tea that’s both a symbol of hospitality and a staple of Japanese culture. The experience includes a selection of premium Japanese sweets sourced from different regions, allowing you to taste and compare regional flavors.

One participant noted, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to taste and compare the unique flavors of traditional Japanese sweets,” emphasizing how this aspect adds a culinary dimension to the cultural experience. The relaxed, communal setting makes it easy to savor every sip and bite, soaking in the serenity that Japanese tea ceremonies are known for.

Duration, Cost, and Value

At $61 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded cultural activity. It’s a generous length—usually enough time to fully engage in the sweet-making and enjoy the tea ceremony without feeling rushed. Considering the inclusion of four Nerikiri designs, matcha, regional sweets, and a knowledgeable guide, the price reflects good value for a cultural hands-on activity.

The Guide and Atmosphere

Rated highly by previous participants, guides like Hannah are praised for their hospitality and friendliness. Her attentive approach ensures that even first-timers feel comfortable, and kids particularly enjoy her warmth. Small group sizes or personal attention may enhance the overall experience, making it feel more intimate and educational.

Why This Tour Matters for Your Trip

This activity does more than teach you how to make traditional sweets; it provides an immersive glimpse into Japanese culture, artistry, and hospitality. You’ll leave with not only handmade confections but also a deeper appreciation for the skill and symbolism behind Japanese culinary arts.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful, interactive experience in Tokyo that’s suitable for a wide age range and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a curious foodie, a family with kids, or someone wanting a relaxing cultural activity, this tour fits well into a day exploring Tokyo’s lively Shibuya district.

While not suited for children under 5 or those seeking a quick activity, it’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy hands-on learning and authentic traditions.

The Sum Up

This Japanese sweets-making and matcha tea ceremony offers a delightful way to connect with Japan’s culinary heritage. The craft-oriented approach, paired with a peaceful tea experience, creates a memorable, engaging activity that appeals to all ages.

The friendly guides, opportunity to customize your sweet designs, and regional sweets tasting make this experience stand out as both educational and enjoyable. While the price is reasonable, the true value lies in the cultural insights, the quality of the sweets, and the relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re after a genuine, memorable way to spend a few hours in Tokyo that’s both fun and meaningful, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn, taste, and take home a bit of Japanese tradition.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above are welcome, and previous reviews mention how kids enjoy the creative process and friendly guidance.

What is included in the tour?
You get to create four Nerikiri sweets, enjoy a table-style tea ceremony with matcha, and taste a selection of regional Japanese sweets.

Can I book this experience with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without paying upfront, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the activity last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the experience is designed to be comprehensive yet relaxed, including sweet-making and the tea ceremony.

Is vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the Nerikiri sweets contain no animal products, making them suitable for vegetarians.

Where does the experience take place?
It starts in Jingumae, Shibuya, with a quick walk to the workshop, making it very convenient for travelers exploring Tokyo.

This Nerikiri and matcha experience offers a genuine taste of Japanese tradition in a fun, creative setting. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or a cultural enthusiast, you’ll find it a rewarding addition to your Tokyo adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: