Experience Making Okura Wasabi and Wasabi Soy Sauce

Discover the ancient art of wasabi preparation in Japan’s Okura region. Guests can enjoy a hands-on experience, grinding fresh wasabi root and crafting their own personalized wasabi soy sauce. But the journey doesn’t end there – savor the flavors of wasabi-infused dishes during a multi-course Wasabi Gozen meal. This captivating experience promises to unveil the versatility of this unique ingredient, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the culinary traditions of Japan.

Good To Know

• Participants learn the traditional art of making Okura wasabi and wasabi soy sauce through hands-on activities.
• Guests get to bottle their own personalized wasabi soy sauce as a souvenir.
• The experience includes tasting processed wasabi and enjoying wasabi-infused dishes during the Wasabi Gozen meal.
• Visitors explore the Wasabi House, gaining insights into the cultivation, processing, and cultural significance of wasabi.
• The activity provides an immersive experience into the artisanal production and culinary applications of wasabi.

Activity Overview

Participants are invited to enjoy the traditional art of making Okura wasabi and wasabi soy sauce on this private tour.

They’ll start by tasting the processed wasabi, then enjoy princess white rice with wasabi soy sauce and pickled wasabi.

Next, they’ll create their own wasabi dishes during the Wasabi Gozen experience.

The tour also includes a hands-on wasabi processing session where they’ll bottle their own wasabi soy sauce.

Throughout the activity, they’ll explore the Wasabi House and enjoy coffee or tea.

It’s an immersive cultural experience for wasabi enthusiasts.

Wasabi Processing Experience

During the Wasabi Processing Experience, you will have the opportunity to bottle their own wasabi soy sauce.

They’ll learn the traditional technique of grinding fresh wasabi root on a sharkskin board to create a smooth, flavorful paste.

Then, they’ll mix the wasabi with soy sauce, creating a signature condiment. Guests can take home their bottled wasabi soy sauce as a souvenir.

This hands-on activity offers a unique insight into the artisanal production of a beloved Japanese ingredient.

It’s a chance to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship behind this regional specialty.

Tasting Processed Wasabi

What better way to kick off the experience than with a tasting of processed wasabi?

Participants will get to sample the pungent wasabi paste and learn about its unique flavor profile. They’ll discover how the rhizome is ground down into a fine powder, then reconstituted with a bit of water to create the classic Japanese condiment.

Next, they’ll try the wasabi soy sauce, a perfect pairing that complements sushi, sashimi, and other dishes.

This introductory tasting sets the stage for a deeper dive into the world of Okura’s celebrated wasabi production.

Wasabi Gozen: Enjoying Wasabi Dishes

After the introductory wasabi tasting, guests dive into the Wasabi Gozen course, which features an array of wasabi-infused dishes.

This multi-course meal showcases the versatility of wasabi in Japanese cuisine. The menu may include:

1. Wasabi tempura
2. Wasabi-spiked miso soup
3. Wasabi-crusted grilled fish
4. Wasabi-infused rice and pickles

Savoring these creative dishes allows participants to fully appreciate the depth of flavor that wasabi can bring to a meal.

The Wasabi Gozen course is a delightful way to take in the world of this pungent root and its culinary applications.

Tour of the Wasabi House

As part of the experience, the tour of the Wasabi House provides guests with an in-depth look into the cultivation and processing of this unique Japanese ingredient. Visitors explore the on-site wasabi fields, learning about the plant’s intricate growing requirements. The tour then moves inside the production facility, where they witness the various stages of wasabi preparation, from grating to bottling the signature soy sauce. Throughout the visit, knowledgeable guides share insights into the history and cultural significance of wasabi, enriching the overall experience.

Wasabi Soy Sauce Bottling

During the tour of the Wasabi House, visitors witness the intricate process of bottling the signature wasabi soy sauce. They learn the importance of precise measurements and meticulous attention to detail in crafting this flavorful condiment.

The key steps include:

1. Carefully blending the freshly grated wasabi with premium soy sauce.
2. Thoroughly mixing the ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of heat and umami.
3. Meticulously filling each bottle, ensuring consistent volume and appearance.
4. Sealing the bottles with care to preserve the sauce’s flavor and freshness.

The result is a versatile, high-quality wasabi soy sauce that enhances a variety of dishes.

Dining Experience

Guests begin their dining experience with a tasting of processed wasabi, savoring its pungent yet nuanced flavors.

They then sample the princess white rice, drizzled with the house-made wasabi soy sauce and pickled wasabi. This sets the stage for the main event – the Wasabi Gozen, a multicourse meal showcasing the versatility of wasabi.

From wasabi-infused dishes to flower-garnished plates, each item celebrates the unique properties of this revered ingredient.

Throughout the experience, guests gain insights into the art of wasabi processing, exploring the Wasabi House and learning about its cultivation.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this experience is at 八鍬土建わさび部門（大蔵わさびohkurawasabi）, located at 2309-1 Shimizu, Okura, Mogami District, Yamagata 996-0212, Japan.

To get there, you’ll need to take National Route 458 to Prefectural Route 331 and meet at the Yakuwa Doken Masudama Wasabi Workshop in the Masudama district.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point. Here are a few key details:

1. Not wheelchair accessible
2. Infant seats available
3. Most travelers can participate
4. Confirmation received at booking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Wasabi to the Experience?

The experience is focused on the process of making Okura wasabi and wasabi soy sauce. Bringing your own wasabi wouldn’t be necessary or appropriate for this activity, as the whole experience revolves around learning to make these items from scratch.

Is There a Vegetarian or Vegan Option for the Wasabi Gozen?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention a vegetarian or vegan option for the Wasabi Gozen. However, it’s best to inquire with the tour operator ahead of time to see if they can accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Can I Purchase Additional Wasabi or Wasabi Soy Sauce On-Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional wasabi or wasabi soy sauce on-site. The Wasabi House offers these products for sale, allowing you to take home the flavors of the experience.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Experience?

This experience doesn’t have a minimum group size. You can book it as an individual. The tour allows you to learn about Okura wasabi production and try making your own wasabi soy sauce regardless of group size.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Clothing or Equipment?

You don’t need any special clothing or equipment for this experience. Wear comfortable, casual attire that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. The tour provider will provide all necessary materials and tools for the hands-on wasabi processing.

The Sum Up

The Experience Making Okura Wasabi and Wasabi Soy Sauce provides a unique glimpse into the art of wasabi preparation. Guests leave with a personalized bottle of wasabi soy sauce, a flavorful memento of their journey through the world of this iconic Japanese ingredient. Whether a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, this experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the rich culinary heritage of wasabi.