Tokyo : Food Sample Making and Shopping in Asakusa

Exploring the unique art of food sample making in Asakusa, Tokyo, is a captivating experience. Visitors can craft realistic-looking tempura using wax in a hands-on workshop, seeing traditional Japanese culinary practices. After the creative session, they’ll venture into the vibrant Kappabashi kitchenware district, known for its vast array of cooking tools and culinary souvenirs. This activity combines creativity and culture, offering flexible booking and a free cancellation policy. But the real question is, what secrets await in the world of Asakusa’s food sample artistry?

Key Points

1. Participants learn the traditional Japanese craft of creating realistic food samples using wax, with a focus on making tempura.
2. The 2-hour small-group tour in Asakusa provides a hands-on experience in food sample making, guiding participants through the step-by-step process.
3. The tour explores the Kappabashi kitchenware district, known for its vast array of cooking tools and intricate food sample displays.
4. Participants have the opportunity to interact with local shopkeepers and find unique kitchenware souvenirs during the district exploration.
5. The booking and cancellation policy offers flexibility, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy the Japanese food sample making tradition and explore the renowned Kappabashi kitchenware district in Asakusa.

Participants can expect a 2-hour small-group tour guided in English. They’ll learn the art of crafting realistic food samples using wax, focusing on tempura. Aprons will be provided, and guests should wear clothes suitable for the activity.

After the sample making, the guide will lead the group to Kappabashi, where they’ll assist in selecting the perfect kitchenware.

The cost of the tour is from Kč 2,621 per person.

Food Sample Making Experience

Participants begin the experience by learning the traditional Japanese craft of creating realistic food samples using wax. They focus on making tempura, a famous Japanese dish. Aprons are provided, and participants are advised to wear clothes that can be rolled up to the elbow, as nail art may be removed during the process.

Craft Focus	Supplies Provided	Clothing Recommendation
Tempura	Aprons	Rollable sleeves
Wax-based	–	Avoid nail art

The activity allows guests to enjoy this unique Japanese culinary art.

Tempura Creation

After learning the Japanese craft of creating realistic food samples using wax, participants move on to making their own tempura.

The guide provides step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the tempura batter by mixing flour, ice water, and salt.
2. Dip bite-sized pieces of vegetables or seafood into the batter, then gently lower into hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown, then drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Season with salt.

Participants are amazed at how quickly they can produce tempura that looks and tastes just like the real thing.

The hands-on experience brings Japanese cuisine to life.

Preparing for the Workshop

Before embarking on the food sample making activity, there are a few preparation steps participants should keep in mind. First, it’s recommended to wear clothes that can be rolled up to the elbow, as the wax used in the process may stain clothing. Secondly, participants should be aware that nail art may need to be removed during the workshop. To ensure a comfortable experience, aprons will be provided.

Preparation Checklist
Wear Rollable Sleeves	Remove Nail Art	Aprons Provided

The knowledgeable guide will be on hand to assist participants in selecting the perfect kitchenware during the shopping portion of the experience.

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Exploring Kappabashi District

With the food sample making complete, the group now heads to Kappabashi, a renowned district for its vast array of cooking tools and kitchenware.

Their knowledgeable guide leads them through the bustling streets, pointing out the highlights:

1. Towering chef statues adorning the storefronts, signaling the area’s culinary focus.
2. Endless shops specializing in everything from knives and pots to intricate food samples and display items.
3. Opportunities to interact with shopkeepers, learn about traditional Japanese cookware, and find the perfect additions to one’s kitchen.

The group eagerly explores, ready to uncover the perfect kitchenware souvenirs.

Kitchenware Shopping With a Guide

As the group departs the food sample making session, they eagerly make their way to Kappabashi, the renowned district for its vast array of cooking tools and kitchenware.

Their knowledgeable guide leads them through the bustling streets, pointing out unique items and sharing insights into their traditional use by Japanese chefs.

The participants browse the diverse selection, from intricate knives to specialized utensils, with the guide offering recommendations based on their interests and needs.

The freedom to explore and purchase items at their own pace allows the group to curate a personalized collection of culinary essentials.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Participants can reserve their spot for the Food Sample Making and Shopping in Asakusa experience with no upfront payment. This activity offers:

1. Free cancellation: Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Flexible scheduling: Customers can check availability for different starting times.

3. Secure booking: With no need for immediate payment, guests can reserve their place with confidence.

The booking and cancellation policy provides flexibility and convenience, allowing visitors to plan their Asakusa adventure with ease.

This ensures a stress-free experience from start to finish.

Meeting Point and Directions

The meeting point for the Food Sample Making and Shopping in Asakusa experience is at the Niimi kitchenware shop, which is easily identifiable by the jumbo cook statue on the building.

Detailed directions to the meeting point are available via Google Maps. The tour begins promptly, so participants are advised to arrive on time.

The English-speaking guide will be waiting at the designated location to greet the group and commence the 2-hour activity.

Arriving early provides time to explore the surrounding Asakusa area before the experience begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food Samples to the Workshop?

No, participants cannot bring their own food samples to the workshop. The activity is focused on learning to create realistic food samples using traditional Japanese craftsmanship, so all materials are provided by the organizers.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement, but the activity may not be suitable for young children. Participants must be able to handle tools and wax safely. The tour guide can advise on appropriate age ranges.

Can I Purchase Ingredients to Make the Food Samples at Home?

No, you can’t purchase ingredients to make the food samples at home. The experience focuses on learning the traditional Japanese craft of making realistic food samples using wax, with the supplies provided during the workshop.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Cooking Tools to the Kitchenware Shop?

No, participants don’t need to bring their own cooking tools to the kitchenware shop. The knowledgeable guide will assist in selecting the perfect kitchenware for individual purchases during the shopping portion of the activity.

Can I Store My Purchases at the Meeting Point Before the Tour Ends?

The tour guide can assist in storing any purchases made during the kitchenware shopping portion of the activity. However, participants should plan to take their items with them when the tour concludes.

The Sum Up

Crafting realistic food samples and exploring the vibrant Kappabashi district make for a unique cultural experience in Asakusa, Tokyo. The hands-on tempura-making workshop and guided kitchenware shopping provide a well-rounded activity with flexible booking and a free cancellation policy. This adventure combines creativity and tradition, offering a chance to take in the city’s culinary traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: