Kyoto Near Fushimi Inari: Wagashi (Japanese Sweets) Cooking Class

Nestled near the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, this hands-on wagashi cooking class offers a unique opportunity to take in the art of traditional Japanese confectionery. Over a 3-hour guided experience, you will prepare an array of beloved sweets, including mochi ice cream, fluffy dorayaki pancakes, and savory-sweet mitarashidango dumplings. With personalized instruction and a maximum of 6 travelers, the class promises an intimate exploration of the techniques and flavors that make these confections so revered. Equipped with English-speaking guidance and all necessary ingredients, this experience invites you to discover the delightful world of authentic wagashi.

Key Points

• A 3-hour hands-on cooking class to learn the art of making traditional Japanese sweets, located near the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
• Participants will craft mochi ice cream, dorayaki pancakes, and mitarashidango dumplings under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.
• The class has a maximum of 6 travelers to ensure personalized attention and an intimate learning environment.
• All ingredients, seasonings, and equipment are provided, along with complimentary coffee or tea.
• The class covers techniques for kneading mochi dough, filling mochi with ice cream, and preparing the sweet and savory sauces for the wagashi.

Overview of the Wagashi Cooking Class

The Wagashi Cooking Class provides participants with a hands-on opportunity to learn the art of crafting traditional Japanese sweets in the heart of Kyoto, just a short walk from the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine.

During this 3-hour experience, aspiring confectioners will be guided by an English-speaking instructor as they prepare a variety of wagashi, including mochi ice cream, dorayaki pancakes, and mitarashidango dumplings.

All necessary ingredients and seasonings are included, and you will also enjoy complimentary coffee or tea.

The class is capped at a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a intimate learning environment.

With a badge of excellence and 28 glowing reviews, this wagashi cooking class is a must-try activity for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Japanese culture in Kyoto.

Inclusions of the Experience

This cooking class includes all the necessary seasonings and ingredients for crafting the traditional Japanese sweets. Participants also receive guidance from an English-speaking instructor throughout the 3-hour experience. Complimentary coffee or tea is provided, and all fees and taxes are covered in the class price. Gratuity is also included, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable learning experience.

The class covers the creation of three classic wagashi: mochi ice cream, dorayaki, and mitarashidango.

Mochi ice cream features ice cream wrapped in soft, chewy mochi. Dorayaki are pancakes filled with sweet red bean jam. Mitarashidango are dumplings coated in a savory-sweet sauce. With these inclusions, participants can enjoy the art of wagashi making while experiencing traditional Japanese flavors and techniques.

Detailed Menu

Participants first learn to craft mochi ice cream, wrapping sweet, creamy ice cream in soft, chewy mochi dough.

Next, they’ll tackle the preparation of dorayaki, making fluffy pancakes and filling them with a delectable red bean jam.

The class culminates in the creation of mitarashidango, where students learn to shape dumplings and coat them in a savory-sweet soy sauce glaze.

Throughout the experience, the class explores:

• The art of molding and shaping mochi dough
• Techniques for preparing a rich and smooth red bean paste
• The process of crafting light and airy dorayaki pancakes
• Methods for achieving the perfect sticky-sweet sauce for mitarashidango
• Plating and presentation of the delicate Japanese confections

Meeting and Location Information

The class meeting point is located at 38-4 Fukakusa Watamorichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0022, Japan, approximately a 15-minute walk from the iconic Fushimiinari shrine.

Participants will end the experience at the same location as the meeting point.

The cooking class is easily accessible via public transportation, but isn’t wheelchair-friendly.

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the intimate class is operated by a Japanese cooking class and walking tour company.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Additional Details About the Class

During the class, the English-speaking instructor guides participants through the preparation of three classic Japanese sweets: mochi ice cream, dorayaki, and mitarashidango. The class provides all necessary seasonings and ingredients, allowing attendees to fully enjoy the hands-on cooking experience.

After the preparation, participants enjoy coffee or tea while savoring the homemade wagashi they created.

The class offers:

• Step-by-step instructions on traditional wagashi-making techniques
• Opportunities to create and customize each sweet to personal preferences
• Insights into the cultural significance and history of these beloved Japanese confections
• A cozy, intimate setting conducive to learning and bonding with fellow participants
• A convenient location just a short walk from the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

This wagashi cooking class is priced at ¥5,000 per person. Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. Should they need to cancel, they’ll receive a full refund.

The class includes all the necessary ingredients and seasonings, as well as an English-speaking instructor. Coffee or tea will also be provided, and gratuity is included in the price.

Travelers can easily access the class location, which is just a 15-minute walk from the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine. With a maximum of 6 participants, this intimate cooking experience offers a chance to learn the art of traditional Japanese confectionery in a convenient and flexible manner.

Highlights of the Class

Participants in the wagashi cooking class get to explore the intricate art of traditional Japanese confectionery-making, crafting delectable treats such as mochi ice, dorayaki, and mitarashidango under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.

The class offers a unique hands-on experience, allowing guests to:

• Knead and shape the perfect mochi dough
• Fill the mochi with creamy ice cream
• Whip up fluffy, golden-brown dorayaki pancakes
• Prepare the sweet and savory mitarashidango sauce
• Decorate the dumplings with care and precision

This immersive culinary journey provides a delightful insight into Japan’s rich confectionery traditions, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the art of wagashi.

Traveler Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the wagashi cooking class, awarding it an impressive 4.9-star rating based on 28 reviews.

Many participants praised the knowledgeable and friendly English-speaking instructor, who guided them through the process of creating traditional Japanese sweets with ease.

Guests highlighted the high-quality ingredients provided and the delightful flavors of the final products, including mochi ice cream, dorayaki, and mitarashidango.

Several reviewers noted the convenient location, just a short walk from the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Modifications to the Menu Items?

The class allows for some flexibility in the menu items. Students can typically request modifications or substitutions, though specific requests may incur an additional charge or may not be possible. It’s best to inquire with the instructor prior to the class.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

There’s no minimum age requirement stated, but the activity may not be suitable for young children. The cooking class is likely intended for ages 12 and up to ensure participants can actively engage in the hands-on experience.

Can I Bring My Own Apron or Cooking Equipment?

Participants can bring their own apron, but cooking equipment is typically provided. The class supplies all the necessary ingredients and tools for the wagashi making experience. Guests should confirm any equipment needs with the instructor prior to the class.

What Is the Level of Difficulty for This Cooking Class?

The cooking class is suitable for all skill levels as it provides an English-speaking instructor to guide participants through the preparation of traditional Japanese sweets. The menu items are relatively straightforward, allowing beginners to successfully create authentic wagashi.

Can I Take the Leftover Food I Cooked Home With Me?

Participants can typically take home any leftover food they’ve cooked during the class. This allows them to enjoy their creations later and share the experience with others. The specifics may vary, so it’s best to check with the class organizers.

Recap

This immersive wagashi cooking class in Kyoto provides a unique opportunity to learn the art of crafting traditional Japanese sweets.

Participants will prepare mochi ice cream, dorayaki pancakes, and mitarashidango dumplings, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of English-speaking instructors.

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the class offers a personalized and intimate setting to explore the techniques and flavors that make these confections so beloved.