Private Tsukiji Market Visit and Cooking Class in Junkos Home

Uncover the vibrant culture of Japan through a private Tsukiji market visit and cooking class hosted by Junko. This immersive experience begins with a guided tour of the outer market, where you’ll discover unique stalls and learn about the seafood trade. Then, under Junko’s expert guidance, you’ll prepare classic Japanese dishes like miso soup and teriyaki chicken in her home kitchen. This delightful culinary journey combines tradition, flavor, and a personal touch, promising an unforgettable taste of Japan.

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant outer Tsukiji market, including a visit to the Namiyoke Shrine, to learn about Japanese seafood trade and cooking ingredients.
• Participate in a hands-on cooking class at Junko’s home, preparing up to four classic Japanese dishes like miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and ginger pork meatballs.
• Gain insights into traditional Japanese home cooking techniques under the guidance of Junko’s expertise.
• Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and the flexibility of a private, customizable culinary experience.
• Benefit from a highly rated tour with a perfect 5.0 rating from past guests, suitable for strollers but not wheelchairs.

Overview of the Experience

This private tour and cooking class offer an immersive experience at Tsukiji, the world’s largest seafood market.

Participants explore the outer market, visiting unique stalls and learning to shop like a local.

They then head to a chef’s home for a hands-on cooking lesson, where they prepare classic Japanese dishes.

The menu may include miso soup, teriyaki chicken, ginger pork meatballs, tamagoyaki, braised eggplant, and vegetable sides.

This experience provides an insider’s look at Japan’s seafood trade and cuisine, allowing guests to discover the flavors and techniques of traditional home cooking.

Market Tour Details

The private tour of the outer Tsukiji market allows visitors to discover unique stalls and learn to shop like a Tokyo local.

Visitors will visit Namiyoke Shrine, the guardian deity of Tsukiji Market. The tour covers the outer market, as the inner fish market has moved to Toyosu.

Guests can explore the bustling atmosphere, learn about the seafood trade, and gain insight into Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques.

This is an opportunity to take in the vibrant culture and traditions surrounding one of the world’s largest seafood markets.

Cooking Class Information

A hands-on cooking class takes place at Junko’s home, where guests learn to prepare up to four classic Japanese dishes. The sample menu may include miso soup, teriyaki chicken, ginger pork meatballs, tamagoyaki, braised eggplant, and rice with vegetable sides, though the menu may vary seasonally. Guests enjoy the art of Japanese cooking, guided by Junko’s expertise.

Dish	Description	Preparation
Miso Soup	Traditional Japanese soup made with dashi, miso paste, tofu, and vegetables	Simmer dashi, add miso paste, then tofu and vegetables
Teriyaki Chicken	Chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce	Marinate chicken, then pan-fry or broil until caramelized
Ginger Pork Meatballs	Flavorful pork meatballs seasoned with ginger, soy sauce, and other spices	Mix and shape pork into balls, then pan-fry until cooked through

Logistics and Meeting Points

Guests meet for the market tour in front of the Lawson store on Tsukiji 4-chome.

For the cooking class only, they meet outside Tsukishima station on the Toei Oedo line.

The experience ends back at the original meeting point.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless logistics experience.

The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.

Service animals are allowed.

Dietary restrictions should be advised at booking to accommodate individual needs.

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the booking is provided within 48 hours.

This private culinary experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are welcome. Dietary restrictions should be advised when booking.

Participants can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the event. The cost is $104 per person. Past guests have given this experience a perfect 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews.

The tour covers the outer Tsukiji market, as the inner fish market has relocated to Toyosu. Guests will explore unique stalls and learn to shop like a local before cooking at Junko’s home.

Exploring the Outer Tsukiji Market

What makes the outer Tsukiji market so captivating? Beyond the famous inner fish auction, the outer market offers a vibrant shopping experience. Strolling through the maze of stalls, you’ll discover a myriad of Japanese ingredients and culinary treasures. From gleaming knives to colorful produce, the sights and aromas are intoxicating.

Stall Type	Offerings
Seafood	Fresh fish, sushi, dried seafood
Produce	Seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs
Kitchenware	Knives, pots, bowls, chopsticks
Specialty	Pickles, snacks, condiments, tea

Visit the Namiyoke Shrine, the guardian deity of the market, for a glimpse into the rich history and culture that pervades this iconic Tokyo landmark.

Hands-on Cooking at Junko’s Home

After exploring the vibrant outer Tsukiji market, participants head to Junko’s home for an intimate cooking class.

In her cozy kitchen, Junko guides them through the preparation of classic Japanese dishes. Together, they mix miso for the soup, season the teriyaki chicken, and shape the ginger pork meatballs.

Junko demonstrates proper techniques, like folding the tamagoyaki and braising the eggplant. Participants enthusiastically follow along, absorbing Junko’s expertise.

The aroma of simmering ingredients fills the air as they work. Finally, they sit down to savor the flavorful meal they’ve created, appreciating the care and skill required for authentic Japanese cuisine.

Sampling the Homemade Japanese Dishes

With the cooking preparations complete, participants now get to savor the fruits of their labor.

The homemade dishes they’ve crafted under Junko’s expert guidance are laid out before them. The tantalizing aromas of miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and ginger pork meatballs fill the air.

Delicate tamagoyaki, braised eggplant, and an array of vegetable sides complement the meal.

Diners eagerly dive in, relishing each bite and appreciating the flavors and textures.

Junko encourages them to savor the results of their hands-on culinary experience.

It’s a true taste of authentic Japanese home cooking that leaves participants thoroughly satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Pictures During the Market Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the Tsukiji Market tour. However, it’s important to be respectful and avoid disrupting the vendors or the market’s operations.

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Vegetarians?

The cooking class menu can accommodate vegetarians, as it includes dishes like miso soup, ginger pork meatballs, and braised eggplant. Guests can advise their dietary restrictions when booking to ensure the menu is tailored to their needs.

How Long Is the Total Duration of the Experience?

The total duration of the experience is approximately 4 hours. It includes a private market tour, hands-on cooking class, and the meal prepared during the class. The experience begins at the meeting point and ends back at the same location.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The minimum group size for the private Tsukiji Market tour is not specified. However, the experience is described as a "private visit," suggesting it’s available for individual travelers or small groups.

Is There an Option to Purchase Ingredients From the Market?

Participants can purchase ingredients from the Tsukiji outer market during the tour and bring them back to Junko’s home to use in the cooking class. This provides a hands-on experience with Japanese seafood and produce.

The Sum Up

This immersive culinary adventure offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s vibrant food culture. Explore the bustling Tsukiji market, then head to Junko’s home for a hands-on cooking class. Under her expert guidance, you’ll craft classic Japanese dishes, savoring the flavors of this time-honored cuisine. This personalized experience combines tradition, flavor, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, creating an unforgettable culinary journey.