Indulge in the delicate art of Japanese confectionery-making with a captivating 125-minute session. Participants will craft two exquisite sweets – the vibrant Ohigashi and the intricate Nerikiri – while seeing the revered Matcha tea ceremony. Discover the flavors and techniques that define Japan’s rich culinary heritage, and savor the fruits of your labor paired with the frothy green elixir. This immersive experience promises to delight the senses and unveil the profound cultural significance behind each delectable morsel.
Key Points
- The experience includes crafting two traditional Japanese sweets: Ohigashi (dried-type) and Nerikiri (seasonal sweet).
- Participants learn the art of grinding Matcha powder and participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
- The duration of the program is 125 minutes, and it is wheelchair accessible with a Japanese instructor facilitating the experience.
- Participants can take photos to commemorate the experience and enjoy the unique flavors and textures of the homemade sweets.
- The program offers a glimpse into Japanese tea culture, emphasizing mindfulness during the tea sipping experience.
Experience Overview
The activity on offer is a Japanese sweets making and tea ceremony experience. Priced from $28.23 per person, the 125-minute program allows participants to craft two types of Japanese sweets – Ohigashi and Nerikiri – before enjoying a traditional Matcha tea ceremony.
The experience is wheelchair accessible and facilitated by a Japanese instructor. Beyond the hands-on confection making, the program features an explanation of traditional sweets, a tea grinding demonstration, and the opportunity to savor the self-made treats and sip Matcha tea.
This immersive cultural experience is a highlight for many travelers.
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Program Details
As detailed in the schedule, the experience begins with an explanation of traditional Japanese sweets.
Participants then make two types of sweets – Ohigashi, a dried-type sweet, and Nerikiri, a seasonal sweet made from white and red bean paste.
After a break, the tea ceremony portion starts with a demonstration of matcha grinding.
Guests then enjoy a casual tea ceremony, capping off the 115-minute program by eating and drinking the sweets and tea they’ve prepared, as well as taking photos to commemorate the experience.
What You’ll Make: Ohigashi and Nerikiri
Participants first make Ohigashi, a dried-type Japanese sweet crafted from Wasanbon sugar. They carefully shape the sweet, adding vibrant colors and delicate designs.
Next, they create Nerikiri, a seasonal wagashi sweet made from white and red bean paste. Molding the soft dough, they sculpt intricate shapes representing nature and the changing seasons.
These traditional Japanese confections aren’t only visually stunning but also reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Participants savor the unique flavors and textures of their homemade Ohigashi and Nerikiri as they prepare to enjoy the serene tea ceremony.
The Art of Matcha Tea Ceremony
After crafting the intricately designed traditional sweets, participants shift their focus to the captivating ritual of the Matcha tea ceremony.
An instructor demonstrates the proper technique for grinding the Matcha powder and preparing the frothy green tea. Participants then experience the full tea ceremony, learning about the significance of each step and the cultural traditions.
The serene atmosphere encourages mindfulness as they sip the delicate Matcha, pairing it with the homemade sweets.
This immersive experience provides an authentic glimpse into the refined world of Japanese tea culture.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting Point and Transportation
The meeting point for this experience is a 1-minute walk from Exit 1 of the Subway Karasuma Line Gojo Station.
This conveniently located meeting point makes it easy for participants to find the class. Public transportation is the recommended way to arrive, as parking may be limited in the area. Guests should plan to arrive a few minutes early to ensure they don’t miss the start of the class.
Once at the meeting point, the friendly Japanese instructors will greet participants and guide them to the workshop location for the hands-on Japanese sweets making and tea ceremony.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Customers can reserve their spot for the Japanese Sweets Making & Tea Ceremony experience without paying upfront. They don’t need to make any payment until the day of the activity.
However, reservations made after 5:00 PM will be processed the next day.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, allowing for a full refund. But charges still apply regardless of the reason, and travel expenses won’t be compensated.
For preschool children, an optional helper fee of 2,180 JPY is available.
Additional Optional Offerings
Along With the core experience, customers can choose several optional add-ons to enhance their Japanese Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony experience. They can:
- Add color to their handmade sweets for an additional 200 JPY.
- Opt for a sweets take-out box for 100 JPY to enjoy their creations later.
- Receive an experience completion certificate for 300 JPY as a memento.
Plus, there’s a 2,180 JPY helper fee for preschool children to participate.
While children under 2 can attend for free by sitting on a parent’s lap, any cancellations incur charges regardless of the reason.
Customer Feedback and Testimonials
Glowing reviews from past participants highlight the enjoyable nature of the Japanese Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony experience. Travelers from Germany, Spain, and the United States praised the quality of instruction and the overall experience.
Overall Rating | Positive Comments | Nationalities |
---|---|---|
4.7/5 | Enjoyable | Germany |
Quality of instruction | Spain | |
United States |
The activity’s intimate atmosphere and the chance to create traditional Japanese sweets alongside a formal tea ceremony contribute to its popularity among guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Experience Suitable for Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The experience may accommodate those with dietary restrictions, as participants can make their sweets without additional colors or opt for a take-out box. However, it’s best to check with the provider about any specific dietary needs.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?
The experience does not currently offer any discounts or promotions. However, travelers can save by avoiding optional fees like the sweets take-out box and experience completion certificate. The base price starts at $28.23 per person.
Can Participants Take Photos During the Experience?
Participants can take photos during the experience. The listing states the experience includes "picture time" at the end, indicating photography is allowed and encouraged throughout the activity.
How Can I Purchase Additional Sweets After the Experience?
Participants can purchase additional sweets to take home after the experience. They’ll have the option to buy a sweets take-out box for 100 JPY. This allows them to continue enjoying the handmade Japanese confections beyond the class.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
The experience doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Individuals can book the activity on their own and won’t need to form a group. After the experience, participants can purchase additional sweets for a fee.
The Sum Up
This immersive Japanese sweets-making experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of traditional confections. Participants will create two exquisite treats, Ohigashi and Nerikiri, while also learning about the art of Matcha tea preparation. The session provides a delightful way to discover Japan’s rich culinary heritage and appreciate the mindfulness behind these time-honored techniques.
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