Kyoto Ramen Spoon Painting & Michelin Cooking Class

Imagine spending a day in Kyoto combining two engaging activities that leave you with more than just memories—the chance to create a personalized souvenir and taste some of the best ramen around. This Kyoto Ramen Spoon Painting & Michelin Cooking Class offers a rare blend of traditional craft and culinary expertise, all wrapped into one experience. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to get a hands-on look at authentic Japanese ramen and take home a keepsake that’s both functional and sentimental.

What really makes this experience shine are a few standout elements: the small-group setting ensures personalized attention, the opportunity to learn from a chef whose restaurant has garnered Michelin recognition, and the chance to enjoy your very own freshly made ramen at the end. Plus, the creative aspect of painting your own ramen spoon adds a playful, memorable touch.

That said, a possible consideration is the overnight baking of your spoon in the kiln—this means you won’t get your souvenir immediately after the class, which might be inconvenient for some. Still, it’s a minor delay for such a unique keepsake.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, craft enthusiasts, and anyone wanting an authentic, immersive taste of Kyoto. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group settings and value the story behind their souvenirs.

Good To Know

• Unique combination: Mix of hands-on ramen cooking and custom spoon painting
• Expert guidance: Learn from a Michelin-nominated chef in a professional kitchen
• Authentic experience: All ingredients are made in-house, reflecting genuine Kyoto craftsmanship
• Memorable souvenirs: Personalized ceramic ramen spoon to take home
• Delicious finale: End the class with a hearty bowl of your own freshly prepared ramen
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere

What Makes This Experience Special?

This class isn’t just about cooking ramen; it’s about understanding what goes into a bowl that’s close to the heart of Kyoto’s culinary scene. Hosted by Musoshin Ramen, a name that’s been pushing the boundaries of ramen excellence since 2022 with locations in Kyoto and Toronto, the experience boasts credentials that set it apart. Its Toronto restaurant has been repeatedly nominated for a Michelin award, and that same quality standards are reflected in their Kyoto workshop.

Authenticity is woven into every aspect: all ingredients are made in-house—from noodles to the ramen broth, which is simmered for a full 12 hours. The soy sauce and roast pork are also handmade, giving you insight into what elevates their ramen beyond typical fast-food fare. This commitment to quality guarantees that the ramen you cook and eat is genuinely top-tier, likely exceeding what you might find in many local eateries.

Creative flair comes from decorating your own ceramic ramen spoon. The process of painting and glazing it, then baking it overnight, creates a charming keepsake. Reviewers mention how fun and memorable this part is, and many have noted that their painted spoons turned out great—some even described the process as “cool” and “fun.”

Learning from a master chef—Shin, the owner and head chef at Musoshin, is frequently praised for his approachable yet expert guidance. Reviewers say Shin is friendly, knowledgeable, and very hands-on, making the class engaging for both adults and children. The class also accommodates dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options, which some reviewers appreciated.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Although not part of the cooking class itself, this stop provides a scenic and cultural starting point. It’s one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, with sweeping views and traditional architecture. Visiting early allows you to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before the crowd arrives.

Stop 2: Kennin-ji Temple

Known as Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kennin-ji offers a serene setting filled with historic artwork and beautiful gardens. It’s a peaceful place to soak in Japanese spiritual tradition and gain a sense of the city’s deep cultural roots.

Stop 3: Sanjusangendo Temple

Famous for its long hall and rows of 1,000 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, Sanjusangendo is an awe-inspiring sight. It’s a perfect place to reflect on Japan’s spiritual heritage before heading to your culinary adventure.

Main Activity Location: Musoshin Ramen

The core of the experience takes place in Musoshin’s professional kitchen, where you’ll learn to cook ramen with step-by-step instructions. The chef’s expertise shines through, as reviewers note how thoroughly they understand the components of ramen—broth, noodles, toppings—and how accessible the process is for beginners.

Painting your ramen spoon happens upstairs, in a dedicated ceramic studio. You’ll have the opportunity to decorate your own spoon with colorful glazes, making it a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Reviewers describe it as a fun, creative process that’s particularly popular among families and groups.

Cooking ramen is the hands-on part. Using ingredients sourced from the restaurant, you’ll learn to prepare the noodles, broth, soy sauce, and toppings—possibly even pork or vegetarian options. Timing is key here, and guidance from the chef ensures you’ll produce a bowl worth savoring. The experience culminates with you tasting your own creation, which many found to be the highlight.

The Experience: What to Expect

Duration and Group Size: About 1 hour and 30 minutes, with a maximum of 12 travelers. This small group ensures personalized attention and a relaxed, friendly environment.

Pricing and Value: At around $66 per person, the class offers impressive value considering it includes both a craft activity and a professional cooking lesson, plus a delicious meal. The fact that all ingredients are made in-house and the chef’s expertise adds to the worth, especially for those seeking authentic experiences.

Practical Details: The class is conducted inside a lively yet intimate ramen restaurant. You’ll receive a ramen bowl, apron, and your painted spoon, which is baked overnight—so plan to pick it up later or receive it via mail if the option is available. The class is held near public transportation, making it convenient to access.

Reviews Highlight: Multiple comments mention how the food is “delicious,” with some calling it “probably the best ramen I’ve ever had in Japan.” The hands-on process, combined with the storytelling about ramen’s components and history, makes it educational as well as tasty.

Review Insights: Guests appreciated the energy and friendliness of instructor Shin, who personally engages with participants, making everyone feel comfortable regardless of skill level. Vegetarian and vegan options are accommodated, showing inclusivity.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re a foodie eager to see behind the scenes of Japan’s famous ramen culture, this class delivers. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of ramen’s components, a handmade souvenir, and a bowl that’s genuinely made with care. The small-group format makes it interactive and fun, and the mix of creative and culinary activities keeps it lively.

It’s also a perfect choice for families or groups traveling with kids, as the painting activity is engaging for all ages. Plus, the opportunity to taste your own ramen adds a satisfying, authentic touch that many other workshops lack.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This tour is ideal for foodies who want to learn the secrets of authentic ramen. It suits families and small groups looking for a memorable activity that combines cultural insight with hands-on fun. If you love crafting souvenirs or enjoy interactive culinary classes, you’ll find this experience particularly rewarding.

Travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and expert guidance will also find this a great value. It’s perfect for those seeking something more meaningful than just sightseeing—an activity that offers both education and delicious food.

The Sum Up

This Kyoto ramen class offers a rare opportunity to learn from a Michelin-nominated chef while creating a personalized ceramic spoon. The combination of culinary skill-building, culture, and a tasty meal makes it a standout experience for food lovers and craft enthusiasts alike. The small-group setting ensures you receive tailored guidance, and the in-house ingredients guarantee authentic flavors.

For travelers keen to deepen their understanding of Japan’s beloved culinary tradition, this class provides a well-rounded, memorable experience at a fair price. The fact that you get to take home a charming souvenir along with a homemade bowl of ramen is a bonus that enhances its value. Whether you’re a seasoned ramen fan or just curious about Japanese cuisine, this experience offers a fun, educational, and flavorful slice of Kyoto life.

FAQ

How long does the class last?
The experience takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including both the spoon painting and ramen cooking parts.

Can I participate if I’m a vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, the class can accommodate vegetarian and vegan options, and reviewers mention Shin’s ability to cater to dietary preferences.

Do I get to eat the ramen I make?
Absolutely. The class ends with you enjoying the ramen you’ve prepared, which reviewers describe as delicious and a highlight of the experience.

When will I receive my painted spoon?
Your spoon is baked in a kiln overnight, so it will be ready for pickup after the class or possibly shipped later, depending on arrangements.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, families and kids enjoy the spoon painting activity, and the relaxed group setting makes it child-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
You get a ceramic ramen spoon, apron, your bowl of ramen, and the experience of learning from a professional chef in a small-group setting.