Tokyo: Two Types of Japanese Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony

Enjoy the art of traditional Japanese confectionery in the heart of Tokyo. Discover the delicate flavors and intricate techniques behind Ohigashi and Nerikiri sweets through a hands-on workshop. Then, conclude your experience with a serene Matcha tea ceremony, learning about its rich cultural heritage. This unique opportunity allows you to gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s exquisite culinary traditions.

Key Points

1. Participants learn to craft traditional Japanese sweets like Ohigashi and Nerikiri, showcasing their artistic skills and immersing in centuries-old confectionery traditions.

2. The experience includes a hands-on Matcha tea ceremony led by a tea master, where attendees gain insights into the history, etiquette, and tranquility of this ritual.

3. The activity is priced at $28.23 per person and lasts 125 minutes, with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as English translation, provided.

4. Non-participating individuals are not allowed, but children under 2 can join for free on their parents’ laps.

5. The program schedule includes an overview of traditional Japanese sweets, followed by dedicated time for making Ohigashi and Nerikiri, and concludes with the Matcha tea ceremony.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

This experience in Tokyo offers a chance to learn about and create two types of traditional Japanese sweets, Ohigashi and Nerikiri, as well as participate in a casual Matcha tea ceremony.

Priced from $28.23 per person, it lasts 125 minutes and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

Participants will make Ohigashi using Wasanbon sugar, create seasonal Nerikiri sweets, and grind Matcha before taking part in a tea ceremony.

The experience is suitable for various travelers, with English translation provided.

Non-participating individuals aren’t allowed entry, and children under 2 can join for free on their parents’ laps.

Activities Included

The experience includes three distinct activities: Ohigashi, Nerikiri, and Matcha.

Participants first make Japanese dried-type sweets called Ohigashi using the traditional Wasanbon sugar.

Next, they create two seasonal Japanese sweets called Nerikiri from white and red bean paste, shaping them into flower-like and Kinton designs.

The final activity is the Matcha tea ceremony. Guests grind matcha powder and participate in a casual tea ceremony, gaining an appreciation for this time-honored tradition.

The experience provides a well-rounded exploration of Japanese confectionery and tea culture.

• Craft Ohigashi dried sweets
• Shape Nerikiri seasonal sweets
• Grind and enjoy Matcha tea
• Appreciate Japanese traditions

Program Schedule

The experience begins with an overview of traditional Japanese sweets.

Participants then spend 20 minutes making Ohigashi, a dried-type sweet using Wasanbon sugar.

After a 30-minute break, they dedicate 85 minutes to creating two seasonal Nerikiri sweets, one flower-shaped and one Kinton, from white and red bean paste.

Next, the focus shifts to tea, with an explanation and demonstration of Matcha preparation, followed by a casual tea ceremony experience.

The 125-minute program concludes with time to enjoy the handmade treats and freshly brewed Matcha tea.

Japanese Traditional Sweets Making

Participants first learn to craft Ohigashi, a traditional Japanese dried-type sweet made using Wasanbon sugar.

Carefully shaping and arranging the ingredients, they create intricate designs that evoke:

• Awe at the delicate craftsmanship
• Delight in the satisfying textures
• Appreciation for the attention to detail
• Wonder at the refined, subtle flavors

Next, they move on to making Nerikiri, seasonal sweets crafted from white and red bean paste.

Molding the soft, pliable dough, they form flower shapes and Kinton, showcasing their artistic flair and seeing the centuries-old traditions of Japanese confectionery.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ohigashi: Dried-Type Sweets

Crafting Ohigashi, a traditional Japanese dried-type sweet, begins with Wasanbon sugar – a unique and refined variety prized for its delicate texture and subtle sweetness.

Under the guidance of the instructor, participants learn to mold and shape the sugar into intricate, bite-sized confections.

The process requires a deft touch, as the sugar must be carefully manipulated to achieve the desired form and texture.

Whether creating simple geometric shapes or more elaborate designs, the focused attention and attention to detail are essential in producing these exquisite, melt-in-your-mouth delights.

The Ohigashi-making experience offers a glimpse into the artistry and precision of traditional Japanese confectionery.

Nerikiri: Seasonal Japanese Sweets

After mastering the art of Ohigashi, participants then dive into creating two seasonal Nerikiri sweets.

Nerikiri are delicate, mochi-based confections crafted from white and red bean paste. Learners will shape the pliable dough into delightful flower and Kinton (golden ball) designs.

The process demands focus and precision, evoking a sense of:

• Calm concentration
• Artistic expression
• Cultural immersion
• Accomplishment

With guidance, you will skillfully mold, color, and assemble these exquisite treats, gaining an appreciation for the intricate Japanese confectionery tradition.

Matcha and Tea Ceremony

After the hands-on sweet-making, participants shift gears to explore the art of Japanese tea ceremony.

They learn about the history and etiquette of this time-honored tradition. A tea master demonstrates the proper way to grind Matcha tea leaves into a fine powder using a traditional bamboo whisk.

Participants then engage in a casual yet authentic tea ceremony, sipping the frothy, vibrant green Matcha while appreciating the nuanced flavors and aromas.

This serene experience allows guests to savor the tranquility and mindfulness inherent in the Japanese tea ritual.

Additional Information

The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation to and from the activity locations.

An optional helper fee of 2,070 JPY is payable on the day, for those who require additional assistance.

While there’s no elevator, the venues are accessible via stairs. Non-participating individuals aren’t allowed entry, ensuring an immersive experience.

Children under 2 years can attend for free, seated on their parents’ laps.

Participants can look forward to:

• Convenient transportation
• Optional helper assistance
• Stair-accessible venues
• Exclusive experience
• Children under 2 welcomed

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Experience Be Done in a Small Group?

The experience is likely conducted in a small group setting. The description mentions "three experiences" and an "explanation" portion, suggesting an intimate, hands-on group activity rather than a large-scale tour.

Can We Take the Finished Sweets Home?

Yes, participants can take the finished sweets home. The experience includes making traditional Japanese dried-type sweets (Ohigashi) and seasonal sweets (Nerikiri), which you’ll get to enjoy during the experience and take with you afterwards.

How Much Time Is Spent on Each Type of Sweet?

The experience devotes 20 minutes to making Ohigashi (dried-type sweets) and 30 minutes to creating 2 seasonal Nerikiri (bean paste) sweets. The remaining time is dedicated to the matcha tea ceremony.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?

The experience accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies. Participants can request vegetarian or gluten-free options when booking. The staff will work to accommodate any needs to ensure everyone can fully participate in the activities.

Can We Choose the Colors or Designs of the Sweets?

While participants don’t choose the colors or designs, they’ll create seasonal Japanese sweets like flower-shaped Nerikiri. The instructor guides the process, allowing guests to enjoy the traditional techniques and experience the final results.

The Sum Up

This immersive experience in Tokyo offers a unique opportunity to craft traditional Japanese confections and participate in a Matcha tea ceremony. Participants will learn the intricate techniques behind Ohigashi and Nerikiri sweets, then conclude the session by savoring the rich flavors of freshly ground Matcha. This hands-on workshop provides an in-depth exploration of Japan’s cultural heritage through the art of confectionery and the time-honored tea ceremony.

You can check if your dates are available here: