Set out on a culinary journey to the heart of Japan’s renowned culinary scene. At the country’s leading culinary school, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the art of sushi-making, guided by an experienced English-speaking instructor. Prepare a variety of traditional sushi dishes, complemented by the flavors of freshly crafted miso soup and dipping sauces. But the experience doesn’t end there; you’ll also have the chance to explore the nuances of Japanese shochu, a distinct traditional spirit, through a tasting of five unique varieties. This comprehensive hands-on experience promises to elevate your understanding and appreciation of authentic Japanese cuisine in ways you never imagined.

Key Points

Sushi Cooking Lesson at Japans Leading Culinary School - Key Points

  • Hands-on tempura cooking experience at Japan’s leading culinary school, with an English-speaking instructor providing guidance on traditional techniques.
  • Preparation of a traditional tempura gozen course, including miso soup, dipping sauce, and other authentic side dishes.
  • Tasting of five distinct varieties of shochu, Japan’s traditional distilled spirit, to deepen understanding of its role in Japanese cuisine.
  • Comfortable attire and shoes recommended for active kitchen engagement, with restrictions on accessibility and age/height requirements.
  • Strict cancellation policy, with no refunds for last-minute cancellations, to ensure instructor and venue preparation.

Overview of the Experience

Sushi Cooking Lesson at Japans Leading Culinary School - Overview of the Experience

The sushi cooking lesson provides an immersive culinary experience at Japan’s leading culinary school, where you will learn to prepare authentic tempura dishes, a traditional tempura gozen course, and sample a variety of shochu – a popular Japanese liquor.

Under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, attendees will master the art of tempura making, from the perfect batter to frying techniques. The comprehensive lesson culminates in a delightful lunch featuring the prepared dishes, including tempura, rice, miso soup, udon noodles, and edamame.

Throughout the experience, you will gain insights into Japanese culinary traditions and have the opportunity to savor the distinct flavors of shochu, a quintessential Japanese spirit.

Inclusions and Meeting Point

The sushi cooking lesson includes an English-speaking instructor, all the necessary cooking ingredients, as well as an apron, kitchen towel, and chef’s hat for participants.

Lunch and private transportation to the venue are also provided.

The lesson takes place at the Marunouchi ABC Cooking Studio, which is located on the B2 floor of the Kokusai Building in Chiyoda City, Tokyo. Participants will meet their instructor at this central location.

The lesson isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and the experience isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women.

A minimum of two guests is required, and participants must be at least 9 years old and 130 cm tall.

Tempura Dishes and Gozen

Sushi Cooking Lesson at Japans Leading Culinary School - Tempura Dishes and Gozen

During the sushi cooking lesson, you will learn to prepare an array of tempura dishes, including tempura gozen – a traditional Japanese multi-course meal featuring fried shrimp, vegetables, mushrooms, rice, miso soup, dipping sauce, udon noodles, and edamame.

Under the guidance of the English-speaking instructor, attendees will master the art of tempura making, delicately battering and frying each ingredient to achieve a light and crispy texture.

The lesson will also cover the preparation of the accompanying miso soup, dipping sauce, and other side dishes that complete the tempura gozen experience.

Participants will have the opportunity to savor the fruits of their labor, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexity and elegance of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Tasting of Japanese Shochus

Sushi Cooking Lesson at Japans Leading Culinary School - Tasting of Japanese Shochus

Tasting five distinct varieties of shochu, Japan’s traditional distilled spirit, completes the sushi cooking lesson experience.

Shochu, a versatile liquor with a long history in Japanese culture, offers a range of flavors and aromas. From the earthy, nutty notes of barley shochu to the delicate, floral hints of sweet potato shochu, the tasting allows participants to explore the diverse spectrum of this uniquely Japanese spirit.

The instructor provides guidance on the proper serving and appreciation of each shochu, enhancing the overall understanding and enjoyment of this integral component of traditional Japanese cuisine.

English-Speaking Instructor

An experienced, English-speaking instructor guides participants through the intricate steps of sushi and tempura preparation during the cooking lesson. The instructor’s expertise and fluency in English ensure clear communication throughout the class, allowing students to fully engage and learn the techniques with confidence.

Instruction Demonstration Guidance
The instructor breaks down each dish into easy-to-follow steps, providing detailed explanations in English. Students observe the instructor’s skilled techniques, from properly handling the knife to delicately arranging the sushi rolls. The instructor offers personalized attention, offering feedback and troubleshooting as students practice preparing the dishes themselves.

With the instructor’s patient and knowledgeable support, participants gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Casual Clothing and Comfortable Shoes

The cooking lesson calls for participants to don casual clothing and comfortable shoes, prioritizing mobility and ease over formality. Attendees are advised to wear loose, breathable fabrics and practical footwear that won’t hinder their involvement in the hands-on sushi and tempura preparation.

This casual attire allows for unrestricted movement during the cooking process, ensuring participants can comfortably stand for extended periods, handle ingredients, and execute techniques without restriction. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the class involves standing in the kitchen.

Participants should avoid wearing anything too formal or restrictive, as the focus is on actively engaging in the culinary experience rather than maintaining a particular appearance.

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if the experience is cancelled at least 24 hours prior, but there are no refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled start time. This policy is in place to ensure the instructor and venue are adequately prepared for the class.

If a guest needs to cancel their reservation, they must do so at least a full day in advance to receive a complete refund. Last-minute cancellations prevent the studio from filling the spot, so no refunds are provided in those cases.

Additional Information and Restrictions

Guests must consider several additional details and restrictions when booking this sushi cooking lesson.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and is recommended only for travelers without back problems or who aren’t pregnant.

Infants must sit on laps during the class.

Guests must be a minimum of 9 years old and 130 cm in height to participate.

There’s no option to take any prepared food home after the lesson, and photos taken during the class may be published.

Casual clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended, and strollers or luggage aren’t permitted.

No take-away after the meal
Photos may be published
Minimum age 9 years, minimum height 130 cm
Casual clothing and comfortable shoes recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Smartphone?

Guests are allowed to bring their own cameras or smartphones to capture photos during the experience. However, they should check with the instructor beforehand, as photos may be published and some restrictions may apply.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cooking Lesson?

The cooking lesson has a casual dress code. Participants are recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. No formal attire is required, and guests should avoid bringing bulky items like strollers or large luggage.

Can I Make Any Special Dietary Requests?

Yes, participants can make special dietary requests when booking the cooking lesson. The instructor will accommodate dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, as long as they are communicated in advance.

Are There Storage Lockers Available for Personal Items?

Unfortunately, the overview does not mention whether there are storage lockers available for personal items during the sushi cooking lesson. Travelers should contact the venue directly to inquire about storage options for belongings.

Can I Book a Private Lesson for Just Myself?

Yes, customers can book a private lesson for themselves. The school offers private lessons for solo travelers, though a minimum of 2 guests is typically required. Guests should check with the school to confirm availability and pricing for a private lesson.

Recap

This immersive sushi-making experience at Japan’s top culinary school provides a unique opportunity to master traditional techniques under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.

Guests can savor freshly prepared miso soup, dipping sauce, and other side dishes, while exploring the nuances of Japanese cuisine.

The tasting of five distinct shochu varieties complements the culinary journey, offering a deeper appreciation for authentic Japanese cultural traditions.