Explore the captivating world of traditional Japanese sweets with a hands-on wagashi cooking class near the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. This intimate experience allows you to learn the art of creating three classic confections – dango, mochi, and dorayaki – under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor. Enjoy the cultural significance and flavors of these beloved treats, and savor your handmade creations paired with a soothing cup of matcha tea. The serene garden setting sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the delicate culinary traditions of Japan.
Key Points
- Authentic Wagashi cooking class in Kyoto, near Fushimi Inari Shrine, where participants learn to prepare three traditional Japanese sweets.
- Personalized guidance from an English-speaking instructor in a small group setting, with insights on ingredients and cultural significance.
- Tranquil setting with garden views, allowing participants to enjoy their handmade Wagashi creations and matcha tea.
- Vegetarian and vegan options available, with advance notice required for any dietary accommodations.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making the experience easily bookable for interested participants.
Overview of the Experience
Participants can enjoy an authentic Wagashi cooking experience in Kyoto, where they’ll learn to prepare three types of traditional Japanese sweets.
The 2.5-hour class, limited to 6 participants, is led by an English-speaking instructor. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
Participants will create Wagashi like dango, mochi, and dorayaki, then enjoy their creations with matcha tea in a traditional Japanese room with garden views.
The class costs $80 per person, and participants aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a guardian.
No upfront payment is required, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Activity Details
The Wagashi cooking class offers an immersive experience in a traditional Japanese setting. Participants will learn to prepare three types of Wagashi, such as dango, mochi, and dorayaki, under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.
The class includes:
- A small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options to cater to diverse dietary needs.
- Enjoyment of the prepared sweets and matcha tea in a tranquil, garden-view setting.
- Insights from the instructor on ingredient sourcing and the cultural significance of Wagashi.
Booking Information
How can one book the Wagashi cooking class? The booking process is straightforward. Participants can reserve their spot without any upfront payment. Plus, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Availability for starting times can be checked on the booking platform. It’s important to note that children aged 12 and below must be accompanied by a guardian.
Booking Details | |
---|---|
Reserve now & pay later | No upfront payment required |
Free cancellation | Up to 24 hours in advance for full refund |
Check availability | For starting times |
Children 12 & below | Must be accompanied by guardian |
Highlights of the Experience
With an authentic Japanese ambiance and garden views, the Wagashi cooking class in Kyoto offers a delightful experience.
Participants learn to prepare three types of traditional Japanese sweets, such as dango, mochi, and dorayaki. The instructors provide valuable tips on ingredient sourcing and answer questions about Wagashi, enhancing the learning experience.
Guests enjoy their handmade creations and sip on matcha tea in a traditional Japanese room, seeing the cultural traditions. The small class size ensures personalized attention, making it a memorable and enjoyable activity for both novice and experienced home cooks.
Key highlights:
- Authentic Japanese setting with garden views
- Preparation of 3 types of traditional Wagashi
- Guidance from English-speaking instructors
- Savoring the homemade sweets and matcha tea
Customer Reviews
Participants have consistently praised the welcoming hosts and clear instruction, as evident in the overwhelmingly positive 5/5 rating based on 28 reviews.
Customers appreciated the opportunity to learn and taste their homemade creations in an authentic Japanese ambiance with garden views.
Reviewers highlighted the enjoyable atmosphere and the instructors’ expertise in answering questions about the traditional Wagashi sweets.
The menu’s flexibility in accommodating dietary restrictions was also noted.
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Inclusion and Exclusion
The Wagashi cooking class includes all the necessary seasonings and ingredients for participants to create their own Japanese sweets.
However, the experience excludes:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off, as participants are responsible for their own transportation.
- Children under 6 years old, as the class may not be suitable for them.
- Wheelchair users, as the traditional Japanese setting may present accessibility challenges.
- Participants with certain food restrictions, unless notified in advance to accommodate their needs.
Accessibility and Dietary Considerations
While the Wagashi cooking class excludes wheelchair users due to the traditional Japanese setting, the experience caters to those with dietary restrictions.
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options are available, and the menu may vary by season. Participants must notify the hosts in advance of any food allergies or preferences.
The class is suitable for children aged 12 and above, but younger participants must be accompanied by a guardian.
The small group size of 6 ensures personalized attention from the English-speaking instructor, who provides tips on ingredient sourcing and answers questions about traditional Japanese sweets.
Menu Variations
Although the menu for the Wagashi cooking class may vary by season, the instructors work to incorporate a diverse selection of traditional Japanese sweets.
Participants can expect to learn the techniques for preparing:
- Dango – Chewy rice dumplings often served with a sweet soy-based sauce.
- Mochi – Soft, pounded rice cakes filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Dorayaki – Pancake-like treats sandwiched with a sweet azuki bean filling.
- Additional seasonal specialties, such as cherry blossom-flavored confections during the spring.
To ensure a memorable experience, the instructors are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take the Prepared Wagashi Home?
Yes, participants can take their prepared wagashi home. The class allows you to enjoy the sweets on-site and pack up the rest to enjoy later.
Is There an Option to Extend the Class Duration?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the class duration. Participants can inquire about extending the experience during booking, and the instructors may accommodate requests for a longer workshop, subject to availability and additional fees.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Cooking Tools?
No, you don’t need to bring any cooking tools. All the necessary tools and ingredients are provided by the instructor. Just show up ready to learn and enjoy the experience.
Can I Request a Specific Type of Wagashi to Make?
Yes, you can request a specific type of wagashi to make. The instructors are flexible and will accommodate individual preferences as much as possible, so feel free to let them know what you’d like to learn.
Can I Take Photos During the Class?
Yes, participants are welcome to take photos during the class. The instructor encourages documenting the cooking process and the final wagashi creations. However, please be mindful of not disrupting the class or other participants.
The Sum Up
This immersive wagashi cooking class in Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese sweets and culture. Participants will create three classic treats under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, all while enjoying the serene setting near Fushimi Inari. It’s a truly authentic experience that allows visitors to engage with Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
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