Private Japanese Cooking Experience at Our Townhouse in Machiya

Discover the authentic flavors of Hida cuisine in a private Japanese cooking experience at a traditional townhouse in the historic heart of Takayama. Guided by a knowledgeable local chef, guests will craft regional specialties like Hoba Sushi and Hida Beef Gyudon, seeing the captivating culinary traditions of this renowned region. From preparing Chirashi Sushi to perfecting Hida Pork Gyoza, this accessible and inclusive experience promises a unique cultural journey that celebrates the seasonal bounty and gastronomic excellence of Hida. With an enticing menu and a charming setting, this exclusive opportunity may just be the highlight of your Takayama adventure.

Key Points

• Immersive cultural experience with hands-on cooking class in a traditional Japanese townhouse (Machiya) in historic Takayama.
• Menu features a variety of authentic Japanese dishes, including Hoba Sushi, Hida Beef Gyudon, and Chirashi Sushi.
• Classes cater to diverse dietary preferences, with options for pescatarian, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian dishes.
• Guided by a knowledgeable local chef, providing insights into regional Hida cuisine and ingredients.
• Convenient location near public transportation, with beverages and accessibility accommodations included.

Menu Overview

The menu for this private Japanese cooking experience encompasses a variety of traditional dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Theres some good Hoba Sushi, a delectable pescatarian and gluten-free option featuring trout salmon sushi wrapped in a magnolia leaf, available during the early summer months.

Another highlight is the Hida Beef Gyudon, a gluten-free bowl of rice topped with thinly sliced beef and tender onions simmered in a savory-sweet sauce.

For the vegan and vegetarian guests, the Chirashi Sushi offers a colorful sushi dish with various ingredients.

Rounding out the menu are the homemade Hida Pork Gyoza dumplings, as well as vegan or pescatarian options for Miso Soup and Dashi Soup.

Starter Selections

Complementing the main dishes, the menu features a selection of starter options to whet the appetite.

Guests can choose from either a Miso Soup or a Dashi Soup, both of which are available in vegan or pescatarian varieties.

The Miso Soup features seasonal ingredients and a traditional Japanese broth, Dashi, while the Dashi Soup, known as Sumashi Shiru, is a clear, light broth that also showcases seasonal ingredients.

These starters provide a delightful introduction to the flavors of the meal, preparing the palate for the main course. Whether a guest opts for the savory Miso or the delicate Dashi, the starter selections promise to tantalize the taste buds.

Hoba Sushi Experience

Kicking off the meal, guests can indulge in the limited-time Hoba Sushi, a delightful pescatarian and gluten-free offering featuring trout salmon sushi wrapped in a magnolia leaf.

This special sushi dish is only available during the early summer months of June and July. The use of the magnolia leaf adds a unique and fragrant touch, while the fresh trout and salmon provide a delicate and flavorful filling.

The Hoba Sushi experience includes:

• Vibrant, colorful presentation
• Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Aromatic notes from the magnolia leaf
• Savory-sweet, umami-rich flavors
• A true taste of the Hida region’s seasonal bounty

Hida Beef Gyudon

Next, guests can savor the Hida Beef Gyudon, a gluten-free dish showcasing the exceptional quality of Hida beef. This hearty bowl features thinly sliced beef and tender onions simmered in a savory-sweet sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful experience.

The Hida region is renowned for its high-quality, marbled beef, prized for its tenderness and rich flavor. In this dish, the Hida beef is expertly prepared, ensuring each bite melts in the mouth.

The onions, cooked until soft and caramelized, complement the beef perfectly, while the savory-sweet sauce ties all the flavors together. This dish is a true delight for beef lovers, offering a taste of Hida’s culinary heritage.

Chirashi Sushi Details

Theres some good the vibrant Chirashi Sushi, a vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free delight that dazzles the senses.

This colorful sushi dish features an assortment of fresh, seasonal ingredients artfully arranged atop a bed of seasoned sushi rice, creating a visually stunning and flavorful experience.

The dish may include:

• Vibrant slices of cucumber and carrot
• Tender edamame and crisp snap peas
• Fragrant shredded nori and pickled ginger
• Colorful diced bell peppers and radish
• Delicate avocado and crunchy sesame seeds

This beautifully presented Chirashi Sushi is a true celebration of the season’s bounty, sure to captivate the palate and leave a lasting impression on guests.

Hida Pork Gyoza

For the private Japanese cooking experience, guests have the opportunity to savor the renowned Hida Pork Gyoza, homemade dumplings crafted with care using the exceptional Hida Pork.

These succulent pork dumplings are a highlight of the menu, showcasing the rich flavors and tender texture of the prized Hida Pork. The gyoza are meticulously prepared, with each fold and crisp edge reflecting the culinary expertise of the hosts.

Guests can look forward to savoring the harmonious blend of savory pork, fragrant seasonings, and delicate dough, creating a truly authentic and delightful Japanese dining experience. The Hida Pork Gyoza is a must-try dish that embodies the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the private Japanese cooking experience is in front of the Miffy shop on the crossing of Kamisannomachi Street and Hirokoji Street in Takayama. Participants will be dropped off back at the same meeting point upon completion of the cooking class. Confirmation of the booking is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. The experience is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed. The location is conveniently situated near public transportation.

The cooking class takes place:

• In a traditional Japanese townhouse called a Machiya
• In the heart of the historic Takayama city
• Providing a unique and immersive cultural experience
• With a knowledgeable local chef as your guide
• Featuring regional Hida cuisine and ingredients.

Inclusions and Accessibility

This cooking experience includes a variety of beverages. Guests can enjoy coffee or tea during the lunch service, while alcoholic beverages are provided during the dinner portion.

Accessibility
Wheelchair Accessible	Yes
Service Animals Allowed	Yes
Near Public Transportation	Yes
Parking Available	No

The cooking class is also designed to be accessible to all guests. The venue is wheelchair-friendly, and service animals are welcome. Plus, the location is situated near public transportation, making it convenient for attendees to arrive and depart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

You cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages. The cooking experience includes alcoholic beverages as part of the dinner service. Outside alcoholic drinks are not permitted during the private event.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There is no dress code for this experience. Guests are welcome to wear casual, comfortable clothing. The focus is on the cooking and dining experience, not formal attire.

Can I Request Specific Dietary Accommodations?

Guests can request specific dietary accommodations, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. The host is happy to accommodate these requests to provide a personalized cooking experience tailored to your’ needs.

Are Gratuities Included in the Experience Price?

Gratuities are not included in the experience price. Guests are welcome to tip the hosts at their discretion based on the quality of the service provided during the cooking experience.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

The experience has no minimum group size, but the maximum group size is 4 people. This allows for an intimate, personalized cooking lesson in the host’s townhouse.

Recap

This private Japanese cooking experience at a traditional townhouse offers a unique opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of Hida cuisine.

Under the guidance of a knowledgeable local chef, you will craft regional dishes like Hoba Sushi, Hida Beef Gyudon, Chirashi Sushi, and Hida Pork Gyoza, seeing the culinary traditions of this captivating region.

This accessible and inclusive experience celebrates the seasonal bounty and culinary excellence of Hida, providing a cultural journey through the art of Japanese cooking.