Kyoto Sushi Making Experience with a Professional Sushi Chef

About this tour

Learn to hand-shape nigiri and roll maki under a master sushi chef in Kyoto, then sit down to eat what you've made alongside his tempura. The 3.5-hour experience kicks off at a traditional wagashi shop, moves into the sushi kitchen for hands-on instruction, and wraps up in a Kyoto garden where you'll whisk matcha and pair it with the sweets you selected earlier. Three sake varieties feature throughout, chosen to complement each dish.

Highlights

• Shape nine pieces of nigiri sushi under chef's direct instruction
• Roll your own maki while the chef demonstrates knife technique
• Taste three Kyoto and regional sake varieties with pairing guidance
• Sample chef-made tempura at the counter
• Whisk matcha yourself in a traditional garden setting
• Curate a selection of wagashi to enjoy with your matcha
• Tour photos sent to you after the session

What to expect

You'll start at a local wagashi shop to pick out three or four traditional sweets that appeal to you. Then move to the sushi restaurant, where the chef demonstrates proper hand technique for nigiri before you practise shaping your own pieces with fresh fish and rice. You'll also learn to roll maki. After your creations are plated, the chef serves tempura he's made, and you'll taste sake alongside—the guide explains why each variety suits what you're eating. In the final hour, you'll head to a quiet garden room, learn the meditative process of whisking matcha powder, and enjoy it with the wagashi you selected at the start.

Good to know

Wear comfortable clothes; you'll be standing and working with your hands. The restaurant is near public transport. Arrive with clean hands and an appetite. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Photos are taken throughout and emailed afterward.