On the lookout for the best food workshops in Sapporo? These hands-on experiences teach essential Japanese cooking techniques while keeping groups small and personal. My favorite picks include a 2-hour sushi class where you’ll master decorative rolls, and an authentic home-cooking session featuring Hokkaido specialties. For something uniquely Japanese, don’t miss the traditional wagashi (sweets-making) workshop – it’s a fascinating look at this centuries-old art form. Market tours combined with cooking lessons offer great value, letting you learn about ingredients before preparing regional dishes. Each class is taught in English by experienced local instructors who know their craft. Check out these recommended tours below.
Key Points
- Sushi-making class in Minami Ward, led by local sushi masters, offering a 2-hour hands-on experience for up to 8 participants at €12.66 per person.
- Japanese cooking class in Higashi neighborhood, hosted by Chef Sakura, focusing on seasonal dishes and concluding with a meal and local beverages.
- Private market tour and cooking class with Kanae, featuring Hokkaido specialties and personalized attention, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Private cooking class with Kanae in her home, offering unique Hokkaido recipes and a hands-on experience for up to 5 participants, priced from $72 per person.
- Wagashi – traditional Japanese sweets class, led by instructor Yuki in a Sapporo neighborhood, with a maximum of 8 participants and a warm teaching style.
2 Hours Sushi Class
Although the sushi-making class in Sapporo is just 2 hours long, participants can expect to learn the art of crafting decorative sushi rolls during this hands-on experience.
Hosted by local sushi masters Yuki and Satomi, the class takes place in the city’s Minami Ward, with pickup available at nearby subway and metro stations. Priced from €12.66 per person, the class accommodates up to 8 travelers and includes an array of amenities, such as an air-conditioned vehicle, welcome drinks, and an apron for the sushi-making.
Reviewers rave about the kind and patient instruction, as well as the enjoyable class atmosphere filled with tea and conversation. Many participants express enthusiasm for recreating the decorative sushi rolls at home, thanks to the recipes provided in English.
Despite the class’s compact duration, students consistently report memorable experiences, often highlighting the joy of crafting sushi “flowers” and the family-friendly vibe.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Sushi Class Review
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Enjoy a Japanese Cooking Class With a Charming Local in the Heart of Sapporo
For those seeking an authentic Japanese cooking experience in the heart of Sapporo, Chef Sakura’s intimate class offers a delightful opportunity to learn and savor the flavors of traditional home-style dishes.
Hosted in Sakura’s cozy residence in the Higashi neighborhood, this private cooking workshop allows participants to step into the world of local cuisine and culture.
The class covers the preparation of 2-3 seasonal dishes, such as miso soup, chikuzenni, dashimaki tamago, and onigiri.
With all ingredients provided, aspiring chefs can enjoy the cooking process under Sakura’s patient guidance.
The intimate setting ensures a personalized experience, and vegetarian options are available upon request.
After the hands-on cooking, guests can enjoy the fruits of their labor accompanied by local beverages.
This child-friendly activity is conveniently located near public transportation, making it an accessible and memorable cultural experience in Sapporo.
With a perfect 5-star rating from previous participants, Chef Sakura’s cooking class is a delightful way to connect with Japanese culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Enjoy a Japanese Cooking Class With a Charming Local in the Heart of Sapporo Review
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Private Market Tour and Cooking Class With Kanae, a Sapporo Local
Enjoy the vibrant local culture of Sapporo with Kanae’s private market tour and cooking class. As a Sapporo local, Kanae offers an intimate experience, leading you through the renowned Nijo Ichiba market to learn about regional produce.
Then, retreat to Kanae’s home for a hands-on cooking class focused on Hokkaido specialties. The menu options feature a delightful blend of classic Japanese dishes, including teriyaki chicken, kinpira-gobo, and agedashi tofu, or regional favorites like soup curry and chan chan yaki.
Complement your meal with local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This private tour allows for personalized attention and a flexible pace, ensuring you maximize your culinary and culture. With 100% positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence, Kanae’s experience isn’t to be missed.
The activity starts at 9:00 am, meeting at Maruyama Koen Station, and ends back at the same location. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and the experience is stroller accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Read our full review: Private Market Tour and Cooking Class With Kanae, a Sapporo Local Review
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Private Cooking Class With a Sapporo Local Kanae in Her Home
Kanae, a passionate Sapporo local, invites you into her home for a private cooking class. This highly-rated experience allows you to learn unique recipes and discover the flavors of Hokkaido. With 17 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, Kanae’s class promises an authentic taste of local life.
During the lesson, you’ll prepare multiple regional dishes, including miso soup, teriyaki chicken, kinpira-gobo, agedashi-tofu, and sunomono. Kanae uses only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients to create these flavorful meals.
After cooking, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal of the dishes you prepared, complemented by alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The class takes place in Kanae’s home, just a short trip from the meeting point near Maruyama-koen station. Kanae will personally pick you up and return you to the starting location after the experience.
With a maximum group size of 5, this is a private, intimate cooking class tailored to your interests. Priced from $72 per person, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to learn about Sapporo’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class With a Sapporo Local Kanae in Her Home Review
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Japanese Cooking Lesson and Meal With a Local Professional in Her Lovely Home
Aspiring home cooks can embark on a private Japanese cooking class with Shiori, a local professional, in the comfort of her lovely Sapporo residence.
The 5.0-rated class teaches participants to prepare traditional Japanese meals, including sushi rolls, somen noodles, grilled chicken, and more. Shiori’s hands-on workshop covers essential cooking techniques and recipes for easy home recreation.
The class is set in a peaceful residential neighborhood, and includes a homecooked meal, local alcohol, and all taxes and fees.
Pickup and drop-off at the nearby Sumikawa Station are provided, with the class starting at 6 PM. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and Shiori welcomes travelers to inform her of any dietary needs.
With 19 glowing reviews praising Shiori’s hospitality and the authentic experience, this Japanese cooking lesson is a must-do for foodies visiting Sapporo.
Read our full review: Japanese Cooking Lesson and Meal With a Local Professional in Her Lovely Home Review
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Wagashi – Traditional Japanese Sweets Class
Nestled in a quaint Sapporo neighborhood, travelers can embark on a captivating Wagashi – Traditional Japanese Sweets Class. With a 100% recommendation rate from past participants, this class offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of making these delicate Japanese confections.
Led by the patient and English-proficient instructor, Yuki, you will create two types of wagashi sweets using all the necessary tools provided. The class, limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, begins with a welcoming green tea drink before the hands-on experience.
Reviews highlight the class’s memorable nature, praising Yuki’s warmth and teaching style. Participants appreciate the cozy, local setting and the chance to savor the beautifully crafted sweets they’ve made.
The class also provides cultural insights about Hokkaido, and Yuki offers recommendations for authentic local dining experiences.
Whether you’re a sweet-tooth enthusiast or simply seeking a unique culture, this Wagashi class in Sapporo promises a delightful and enriching experience.
Read our full review: Wagashi – Traditional Japanese Sweets Class Review
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The Sum Up
Sapporo offers a delightful array of workshops and classes for visitors eager to enjoy Japanese culinary traditions. From sushi-making to traditional sweets, these hands-on experiences provide unique opportunities to learn from local experts and savor the flavors of Hokkaido. Whether you opt for a private cooking class or a market tour, you’re sure to leave with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for Sapporo’s rich gastronomic heritage.