Tokyo Onigiri & Tonjiru Leaning Experience+ Grocery Store Tour

Hungry for an authentic Japanese culinary experience? The "Tokyo Onigiri & Tonjiru Learning Experience" promises to satisfy. Led by skilled instructor Miou Tominaga, this 4-hour class teaches participants to craft traditional onigiri and tonjiru. Guests also explore a local grocery store, discovering the ingredients behind Japan’s vibrant flavors. Whether a foodie or novice cook, this immersive class offers a chance to uncover Japan’s rich gastronomic heritage. The only question left is – are you ready to get cooking?

Good To Know

• An immersive 4-hour cooking class in Tokyo, focusing on preparing classic Japanese dishes like onigiri (rice balls) and tonjiru (pork miso soup).
• Led by a licensed instructor, Miou Tominaga, with a maximum group size of 4 for personalized attention and culture.
• Includes a local grocery store tour to explore Japanese ingredients and culinary traditions.
• Provides coffee/tea, lunch, and alcoholic beverages, with a modern and upscale setting.
• Highly praised by previous participants for the quality of instruction and enjoyment of traditional Japanese dishes.

Experience Overview

This immersive experience in Tokyo offers participants a chance to learn the art of making classic Japanese dishes.

During the 4-hour session, guests will explore the preparation of two iconic Japanese staples – onigiri (rice balls) and tonjiru (pork miso soup).

The hands-on cooking class is led by a licensed instructor, Miou Tominaga, who shares her expertise in a fun, informative manner.

Participants will also enjoy a local grocery store tour, providing insights into Japanese ingredients and culinary traditions.

With a maximum group size of 4, this intimate experience ensures personalized attention and a memorable culture.

Meeting and Pickup Information

To begin the experience, you will meet at the Adachi-odai Station, located at 1 Chome-20 Odai, Adachi City, Tokyo 120-0046, Japan. Participants can take the Nippori-Toneri Liner and get off at the 4th stop, Adachiodai Station, where the host will be waiting at the exit.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The experience includes coffee and/or tea, lunch, and alcoholic beverages.

The tour is led by a licensed or certified guide, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers.

However, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible.

Key points:

1. Inclusions: coffee/tea, lunch, alcoholic beverages
2. Guide: licensed or certified
3. Group size: maximum of 4 travelers

Participant Reviews

Two participant reviews for the Tokyo Onigiri & Tonjiru Experience were available.

Susan_P from December 2024 highly recommended the cooking session with Miou, praising the classic Japanese dishes with modern twists. She found the experience informative and fun, and described Miou’s home as modern and upscale.

DingLin_T from August 2024 praised Miou’s kindness and informative nature, enjoying the delicious onigiri and tonjiru, and describing it as a wonderful experience.

Both reviews highlighted the quality of the instruction and the enjoyment of the traditional Japanese dishes.

Host Interaction

Miou Tominaga, the host of the Panda Kitchen Tokyo experience, engaged with participants before the class, providing clear directions and ensuring a fun, informative cooking session.

Her commitment to creating a positive experience was evident in her interactions with the group. Some key aspects of her host interaction include:

1. Clear communication: Tominaga provided detailed instructions on how to reach the meeting point, ensuring participants had no trouble finding the location.

2. Personable approach: Participants praised Tominaga’s kindness and informative nature, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the cooking class.

3. Responsive feedback: Tominaga expressed gratitude for positive feedback and a willingness to improve the class, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Learning Onigiri and Tonjiru Preparation

Participants enjoy the authentic Japanese culinary experience, learning to prepare two classic dishes – onigiri and tonjiru.

Under the guidance of their host, Miou, they master the art of crafting onigiri, the iconic Japanese rice balls. Participants discover the proper technique for shaping and filling the onigiri, experimenting with a variety of fillings.

Next, they learn the secrets to crafting tonjiru, a hearty pork and vegetable soup. Miou shares insights into the traditional preparation methods, allowing participants to develop an appreciation for the nuances of Japanese cuisine.

The hands-on session culminates in a delightful meal shared among the group.

Exploring the Neighborhood Grocery Store

After the immersive cooking session, the group ventures out to explore a nearby neighborhood grocery store.

Miou, the host, guides them through the aisles, sharing insights into Japanese pantry staples and local shopping habits.

The group encounters:

1. Vibrant produce sections, showcasing seasonal fruits and vegetables, including unique varieties like Japanese long eggplants and yuzu citrus.

2. An array of fermented condiments, such as miso, soy sauce, and pickled ginger, highlighting the complexity of Japanese flavors.

3. Specialty rice, noodle, and tea selections, demonstrating the importance of high-quality ingredients in traditional Japanese cuisine.

The tour provides a deeper understanding of the local food culture and inspires ideas for recreating the day’s dishes at home.

Reflecting on the Culinary Adventure

As the insightful grocery store tour wrapped up, the participants found themselves brimming with inspiration and a newfound appreciation for the intricacies of Japanese cuisine.

The hands-on onigiri and tonjiru cooking class allowed them to dive deeper into traditional flavors and techniques. Guided by the warm and knowledgeable host, Miou, they mastered the art of crafting perfectly shaped onigiri and brewing the hearty tonjiru stew.

Reflecting on the experience, the participants expressed delight in learning new skills while savoring the delicious results of their culinary efforts.

This immersive exploration had truly enriched their understanding of Japanese food culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Level of Cooking Experience Is Required for This Class?

The class is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. No prior cooking experience is required, as the instructor provides hands-on guidance and caters to participants’ needs throughout the session.

Is It Possible to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The experience can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Participants should contact the host to discuss any specific needs or preferences before booking the class.

How Long Does the Entire Experience Last?

The entire experience typically lasts around 3 hours. This includes the cooking lesson, exploring the grocery store, and enjoying the prepared dishes. Participants should expect to spend a half-day immersed in this hands-on cultural learning experience.

Can Participants Take Home the Dishes They Prepare?

Participants typically cannot take home the dishes they prepare during the cooking experience. The focus is on the hands-on learning and enjoyment of the meal during the session, rather than providing participants with the prepared dishes to take away.

Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Local Community?

The experience offers an opportunity to interact with the local community. Participants visit a grocery store and learn about traditional Japanese ingredients from the host, providing a culture beyond just the cooking class.

The Sum Up

This immersive cooking class offers a unique chance to explore Japan’s rich culinary traditions. Participants learn to prepare classic dishes like onigiri and tonjiru, while also discovering authentic ingredients at a local grocery store. Led by an expert instructor, the class provides a personalized and enjoyable experience that’s perfect for anyone interested in delving into the flavors of Japanese cuisine.