Tokyo: Japanese Sweets Making Experience

Discover the captivating world of wagashi, Japan’s traditional sweets, with an immersive experience in Tokyo. This 3-hour workshop takes you on a cultural journey, blending the art of confectionery-making with a exploration of the vibrant Taito City area. Learn the intricate techniques behind crafting seasonal wagashi while enjoying refreshing matcha tea and local snacks. With a small group size and flexible booking, this unique experience offers a delicious taste of Japan’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• 3-hour small group experience (max 6 participants) to learn the traditional art of making Japanese sweets, called wagashi, in Tokyo.
• Includes a visit to Yanaka Cemetery, a wagashi-making class, tea and dessert enjoyment, and an exploration of local shops.
• Flexible pricing and reservation policies with a discounted rate of €112.34 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Participants gain insight into the significance of seasonal motifs and techniques used to handcraft the delicate Japanese sweets.
• Opportunity to purchase handmade wagashi as souvenirs, with costs not included in the tour price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity provides participants with the opportunity to experience the traditional art of making Japanese sweets, known as wagashi.

The 3-hour experience takes place in a small group setting, limited to 6 people, with an English-speaking guide. It starts outside the south exit ticket gates of JR Nippori Station and ends at Sendagi Station.

During the experience, guests will visit Yanaka Cemetery and the Taito City area, where they’ll participate in a wagashi-making class, enjoy tea and desserts, and explore local shops.

Pricing and Reservation

Though the original price of the Japanese Sweets Making Experience is €140.43, guests can save up to 20% by booking at the discounted price of €112.34 per person.

The activity offers several convenient booking options:

1. Reserve now and pay later.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
3. Ideal for small groups, as the experience is limited to 6 participants.

With these flexible pricing and reservation policies, guests can confidently book this immersive cultural activity and look forward to an unforgettable wagashi-making experience in Tokyo.

Itinerary Highlights

After a brief visit to the peaceful Yanaka Cemetery, participants embark on a 2.17-hour culinary journey in the Taito City district.

They’ll learn to make traditional Japanese sweets known as wagashi, accompanied by a soothing cup of matcha tea.

Participants will also sample local snacks and enjoy a hands-on cooking class.

The experience culminates in a guided tour and shopping opportunity, allowing guests to enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage and perhaps bring home handmade wagashi as souvenirs.

Cultural Insights

This immersive experience allows participants to learn about traditional Japanese crafts and techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Through the shapes and colors of wagashi, you’ll gain insights into Japan’s four seasons and related customs.

The class covers:

1. The significance of seasonal motifs and their symbolic meanings in wagashi.
2. The intricate techniques used to handcraft each delicate sweet, showcasing the artistry involved.
3. How wagashi reflects the Japanese appreciation for nature and the changing of the seasons.

This hands-on workshop offers a unique cultural learning opportunity.

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Additional Information

What does the experience include? The tour includes an English-speaking guide, the cost of the wagashi making class, matcha tea and sweets sampling, as well as time for shopping. However, there are some limitations. This activity is not suitable for children under 3, wheelchair users, people with altitude sickness, or babies under 1 year. While not included in the tour price, there is an opportunity to purchase handmade sweets as souvenirs.

Included	Not Included	Excluded	Unsuitable for
Tour guide	Shopping costs	Children under 3	Wheelchair users
Wagashi making fee	Varies by guest and store	Babies under 1	People with altitude sickness
Matcha and sweets fee

Wagashi Making Process

As participants enter the wagashi-making studio, they’re welcomed by the delicate aromas of traditional Japanese confections.

The instructor demonstrates the intricate process of creating these delectable sweets:

1. Mochi Dough Preparation: Participants knead and shape soft mochi dough, made from glutinous rice flour, into small balls, ready to be transformed.

2. Artistic Molding: Using specialized tools, participants carefully mold the mochi dough into delicate shapes, often mimicking natural elements like flowers, leaves, or seasonal themes.

3. Finishing Touches: The final step involves adding vibrant food coloring and decorative elements, such as red bean paste or azuki bean, to bring the wagashi to life.

Exploring the Neighborhood

After the hands-on wagashi-making session, participants step out into the charming Yanaka neighborhood. They explore the quaint streets, lined with small shops and shrines. The group visits the Yanaka Cemetery, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.

Attraction	Duration	Highlights
Yanaka Cemetery	10 minutes	Peaceful, historic graves, scenic views
Wagashi Shop	30 minutes	Guided tour, sampling local sweets, shopping
Sendagi Station	–	Convenient transportation hub to explore further

The guided tour provides insights into the area’s rich history and traditional Japanese culture. Participants have the opportunity to purchase handmade wagashi as souvenirs before concluding their immersive cultural experience.

Memorable Souvenirs

Participants eagerly browse the local shops, captivated by the array of handcrafted wagashi on display. The opportunity to purchase these delicate and artful treats as souvenirs is a highlight of the experience.

The wagashi-making class enables them to:

1. Understand the deep cultural significance of these traditional Japanese sweets.
2. Appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each piece.
3. Bring home a taste of Japan, sharing the experience with friends and family.

With vibrant colors and exquisite designs, the wagashi serve as a tangible reminder of the culture and newfound appreciation for this cherished culinary art form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Experience Be Held in an Indoor or Outdoor Setting?

The experience will primarily take place in an indoor setting. The wagashi making class, tea tasting, and guided tour will all occur indoors, while the brief visit to Yanaka Cemetery is the only outdoor component.

Is the Wagashi Making Demonstration Hands-On or Just Observational?

The wagashi making experience is hands-on, allowing participants to actively create traditional Japanese sweets under the guidance of a live tour guide. Guests will have the opportunity to craft their own wagashi creations during the 2.17-hour workshop.

What Is the Dress Code for the Activity?

The activity does not have a specific dress code. Participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing that allows for easy movement during the hands-on wagashi-making experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies That Can Be Accommodated?

The experience can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. Participants should inform the tour guide of any special dietary needs when making the reservation so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Is There an Opportunity to Take Photos During the Experience?

Yes, participants can take photos during the experience. The tour guide provides ample opportunities to capture the wagashi-making process and the beautiful wagashi on display, allowing guests to document their cultural experience.

The Sum Up

This Japanese sweets making experience offers a delightful way to take in traditional Japanese culture. From crafting seasonal wagashi to exploring the historic Yanaka Cemetery and Taito City, participants can indulge in a multisensory journey that celebrates Japan’s rich heritage. With small class sizes and flexible booking options, this workshop provides a memorable and authentic taste of the country’s culinary artistry.

You can check if your dates are available here: