Explore Kyoto’s Sushi Workshop: Craft 5 Types + Red Miso Soup
Trying your hand at making sushi in Kyoto is a delightful way to connect with Japanese culinary traditions. This sushi workshop offers a practical, engaging experience where you’ll learn to create five popular sushi styles plus a comforting bowl of red miso soup. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned foodie, this class promises fun, education, and delicious results.
What I love most about this experience is the chance to get hands-on with familiar and authentic recipes, guided by a knowledgeable instructor who makes everything approachable. It’s also great that the class is inclusive of dietary needs like vegan, gluten-free, halal, or allergy-friendly options—important for travelers with specific diets. Plus, the location is super accessible, just a short walk from major stations like Shijo and Karasuma. The only possible downside? If you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth sushi course, this might feel somewhat brief. But for a fun, practical introduction, it hits the mark.
This experience suits food lovers, families, couples, and solo travelers equally, especially those eager to bring authentic Japanese cooking skills back home. If you want to impress friends with sushi-making skills or simply enjoy a tasty, interactive activity in Kyoto’s vibrant city center, this class fits the bill.
- Good To Know
- Discovering the Art of Sushi in Kyoto
- Why This Class Works
- What Makes the Experience Special
- Practical Details and Value
- What to Expect During the Class
- Dietary Needs and Customization
- Feedback from Participants
- Practical Tips for Attendees
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Workshop Tours in Kyoto
- More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Looking for something different? Other Kyoto activities we've written about
Good To Know
- Hands-on learning: Make five distinct types of sushi with step-by-step guidance.
- Inclusive options: Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and allergy-friendly ingredients available.
- Accessible location: Within walking distance from major Kyoto stations.
- Authentic recipes: Created by a Japanese cooking class expert.
- Family-friendly: Easy recipes suitable for beginners and children.
- Full experience: Includes red miso soup and a full food prep.
Discovering the Art of Sushi in Kyoto

Kyoto may be famous for its temples and gardens, but its culinary scene offers just as much depth—especially when it comes to sushi. This sushi workshop offers more than just a cooking class; it’s an opportunity to learn the nuances of Japanese sushi styles, from the classic Edomae to decorative Temari. For travelers craving an authentic, hands-on experience, this workshop provides exactly that.
More tours and activities we've covered in Kyoto
Why This Class Works
Unlike some fleeting sushi experiences, this class takes a comprehensive approach. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you’ll learn to prepare five different styles: Nigiri, Maki, Temaki, Temari, and Edomae. Each style offers a different technique, flavor profile, and visual appeal, broadening your understanding of Japanese sushi craftsmanship.
The instructor is praised for being knowledgeable and patient, making even absolute beginners feel confident. From preparing rice to selecting fillings, you’ll get an intimate look into the art of sushi-making. The recipes are designed to be easy and accessible, which means you don’t need any previous cooking experience—just enthusiasm and a desire to learn.
What Makes the Experience Special
One of the standout elements is the authenticity of the recipes. Created by a Japanese cooking teacher, they are crafted to be both delicious and manageable. Reviewers appreciate how approachable the instructions are, with one noting, “Even a novice like me could follow along and make sushi I was proud of.”
Another highlight is the red miso soup, known as akadashi, which accompanies the sushi. This richer, full-bodied broth provides a perfect complement to the variety of sushi styles you’ll make, offering a taste of traditional Japanese comfort food.
Practical Details and Value
The class costs $59 per person, which is a fair price considering the quality of instruction and the variety of sushi you’ll learn to make. The location is conveniently within a 10-minute walk from two major stations, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or shopping in Kyoto.
Cooking utensils and aprons are included, so you only need to show up ready to cook and have fun. The class duration is not specified but seems designed for a relaxed, engaging experience rather than a hurried session.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Expect During the Class

Once you arrive at the venue, you’ll be welcomed and given an apron and utensils to use. The instructor, fluent in English and Japanese, will guide you through each step, explaining the science behind each technique—a feature that helps demystify sushi making for beginners.
You’ll start by preparing the rice, which is the backbone of all sushi. The instructor emphasizes the importance of seasoning rice properly, especially for Edomae-style sushi, which uses seasoned red vinegar, giving it a distinctive color and flavor.
Next, you will learn to craft each of the five sushi types:
- Nigiri: Hand-pressed rice topped with fish or other fillings.
- Maki: Rolled sushi, with fillings wrapped in seaweed and rice.
- Temaki: Hand rolls, a fun and casual way to enjoy sushi.
- Temari: Decorative, ball-shaped sushi that’s both pretty and tasty.
- Edomae: The traditional Tokyo-style with vinegared red rice, giving it a rich, tangy flavor.
Throughout, the instructor will share tips on selecting fillings, rolling techniques, and presentation. Many reviewers have remarked that even children or complete beginners can make impressive-looking sushi with guidance.
You’ll enjoy your freshly made sushi with the accompanying red miso soup, which many describe as full-flavored and far richer than the more common white miso.
- Full Coverage Kyoto Private City Tour
- Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour
- Kyoto Fushimi Hidden Route Hiking & Soba Lunch
- Kyoto Night Walk Tour (Gion District)
- Gion and Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto Highlights With Government-Licensed Guide
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Day Trip From Kyoto With a Local: Private & Personalized
Dietary Needs and Customization
A major plus is the class’s flexibility to cater to various dietary restrictions. Guests report being able to specify vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, halal, or allergy-safe options. This makes the experience inclusive and stress-free for travelers with specific needs.
Feedback from Participants
One reviewer wrote, “The recipes are simple but deliver big on flavor, and I loved how the instructor explained the ‘why’ behind each step.” Another mentioned, “The class was relaxed, fun, and I now feel confident making sushi at home.”
Practical Tips for Attendees
- Book in advance: Due to limited availability, securing your spot ahead of time is recommended, especially if you want to customize dietary options.
- Arrive on time: The class starts at a designated meeting point; being punctual ensures a smooth experience.
- Come hungry: You’ll be preparing and eating your own sushi, so arrive with an appetite.
- Ask questions: The instructor’s expertise means you can learn a lot, so don’t hesitate to inquire about tips or techniques.
- Take notes and photos: To replicate your new skills at home, jot down helpful tips or snap a few shots of your creations.
The Sum Up
This Kyoto sushi workshop offers a well-rounded, practical introduction to Japanese sushi-making that’s perfect for beginners and foodies alike. The chance to create five different styles in a short session, with expert guidance and dietary flexibility, makes it a superb value at just $59.
You’ll leave not only with the skills to craft beautiful sushi but also with a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind each bite. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience adds a delicious, educational layer to your Kyoto trip.
It’s especially ideal if you want a fun, interactive activity that ends with a satisfying meal and new culinary skills to impress friends back home. The friendly guides, approachable recipes, and convenient location make this class a top pick for travelers eager to bring a piece of Japan’s sushi tradition into their kitchen.
FAQ
Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipes and instructions are designed to be easy enough for complete beginners, and many reviews mention how accessible the techniques are.
Can I customize the dietary options?
Absolutely. The class accommodates vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, halal, and allergy-safe ingredients if you inform the organizers when booking.
What types of sushi will I learn to make?
You’ll learn to make five styles: Nigiri, Maki, Temaki, Temari, and Edomae, covering both traditional and decorative sushi.
How long is the class?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the experience is structured to be a relaxed, comprehensive session—expect around a few hours.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the venue is not included, but the location is easily accessible within a 10-minute walk from Shijo or Karasuma stations.
What’s included in the price?
Your experience cost, ingredients, and utensils (aprons included). You’ll also enjoy the red miso soup as part of the class.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself and an appetite. The necessary utensils and aprons are provided.
Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without payment upfront, offering flexibility in planning your trip.
In the end, this Kyoto sushi workshop offers a practical, fun, and authentic taste of Japanese cuisine. It’s an ideal activity for anyone eager to learn a new skill, enjoy delicious food, and take home a piece of Kyoto’s culinary charm.
You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours NearbyMore Workshop Tours in Kyoto
- Kyoto: Kintsugi Workshop – Repair Ceramics with Gold
- Kyoto: Premium Ikebana Workshop with Vase Souvenir
- KyotoCreate Your Own Kyoto Hand Fan workshop
- Authentic Kyoto Cooking Class with a renowned master Chef
- Factory Tour and Goshuin Book making workshop
- Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Gion Gold Repair Art
More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Kyoto: Crowd-Free Tour of Kiyomizu & Ginkaku-ji Temples
- Kyoto: Private tour, Arashiyama, Bamboo Forests and Sacred Temples
- Kyoto: Tea Ceremony, in traditional Japan house (ENG/ES/NLD)
- Kyoto: Japanese Replica Food Making Workshopsoda float
- Kyoto: Kintsugi Workshop – Repair Ceramics with Gold
- Kyoto: Traditional Tea Ceremony since 16th century
Looking for something different? Other Kyoto activities we've written about
- Kyoto: Private tour, Arashiyama, Bamboo Forests and Sacred Temples
- Kyoto: Tea Ceremony, in traditional Japan house (ENG/ES/NLD)
- Kyoto: Japanese Replica Food Making Workshopsoda float
- From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto Private Day Trip with Pickup
- Kyoto: Kintsugi Workshop – Repair Ceramics with Gold
- Kyoto: Traditional Tea Ceremony since 16th century
- Kyoto: Future Train Kyoto Diner & Cafe Entry Ticket
- Kyoto: Private E-Bike Tour of Old Kyoto
- Maiko Dance and Tea Ceremony on a Noh Stage in Kyoto
- Kyoto: Private Licensed Guided Walking Tour with Foot Spa
- Kyoto: Full-Day Private Custom Sightseeing Tour with Pickup
- Kyoto: Knife Sharpening Experience and Factory Guide Tour
