Discover the Authentic Flavors of Hokkaido Through a Cooking Class in Sapporo
If you’re craving a genuine taste of Japan’s northern islands, this Hokkaido Seafood Chirashi Sushi Experience offers a fantastic way to learn traditional dishes in a relaxed environment. Set in a peaceful residential area of Sapporo, this class promises not just cooking, but an intimate glimpse into local life, with fresh ingredients and authentic techniques.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to make your own beautiful seafood sushi rolls from scratch using fresh Hokkaido seafood. Second, the opportunity to learn how to cook crispy kakiage tempura, perfectly light and golden. Lastly, the cultural insight provided by the matcha and Japanese sweets session, which adds a thoughtful touch of tea tradition. One potential consideration? The price might seem a bit steep for some, but considering the personalized attention and quality ingredients, it offers excellent value.
This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to get their hands dirty and deepen their understanding of Japanese cuisine, especially if you enjoy a cozy, small-group setting. Travelers wanting to experience authentic local life, not just the tourist spots, will find this class a rewarding addition to their Sapporo visit.
- Good To Know
- A Closer Look at the Experience
- Location and Accessibility
- The Itinerary: What to Expect
- What You’ll Learn
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Authentic Insights from Past Participants
- Practical Details
- Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Tour Reviews in Sapporo
- Looking for something different? Other Sapporo activities we've written about
Good To Know

- Hands-on experience cooking seafood chirashi sushi and tempura
- Small group size of 2 to 3 people enhances intimacy and learning
- Learn about Japanese tea culture through matcha and sweets
- Convenient location close to major sights like Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Zoo
- Includes all ingredients and gear, with rental apron and towel
- Free cancellation allows flexibility in plans
A Closer Look at the Experience
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Location and Accessibility
The class is held in a quiet residential neighborhood approximately 15 minutes by car from Sapporo Station. If you love exploring local areas beyond the busy city center, you’ll appreciate this peaceful setting, which also provides a window into everyday Japanese home life. It’s within walking distance of Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Zoo, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.
While no hotel pick-up is included, the meeting point is straightforward, with near public transportation options. The studio’s ambiance is designed to foster a homely, relaxed atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer intimate experiences over large, commercial classes.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The class begins promptly at 10:00 a.m., with a brief introduction to Hokkaido’s food culture. This sets the scene and helps you appreciate the regional specialties you’ll be working with. From there, the hands-on cooking session lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, during which you’ll learn how to assemble seafood sushi rolls with fresh ingredients, and prepare crispy kakiage tempura—a light batter-fried vegetable or seafood dish.
Authenticity is key here; the instructor emphasizes using local, fresh seafood that captures Hokkaido’s famed maritime bounty. As one reviewer pointed out, “We loved the way the chef explained how to handle the seafood for sushi,” making the process as educational as it is practical.
After cooking, everyone sits down together to enjoy the meal—a rare chance to savor your own creations in a cozy setting. The meal is complemented by the matcha experience, where you can taste rich, finely prepared green tea alongside traditional Japanese sweets. The instructor also shares insights into Japanese tea culture, adding a layer of cultural depth to the hands-on session.
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques for making visually appealing seafood sushi rolls
- How to achieve crispy, light tempura kakiage
- The spirit and principles behind Japanese tea culture, including the proper way to enjoy matcha and sweets
The focus on authenticity and detail means you’ll walk away with skills that can be replicated at home, plus a richer understanding of Japanese culinary customs.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price are all necessary ingredients for the sushi and tempura, as well as matcha, traditional sweets, and rental gear such as aprons and towels. You won’t need to worry about bringing your own tools or ingredients, which simplifies planning.
Not included is hotel transportation, so plan ahead to reach the meeting point. The cost of $99.08 per person reflects the personalized nature of the class, the quality ingredients, and the cultural value provided.
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Authentic Insights from Past Participants
While the experience is relatively new (no reviews yet), previous feedback highlights the small group size as a major plus, allowing for personalized guidance. One person noted, “The instructor was very kind and eager to share her knowledge,” ensuring everyone feels comfortable, even if cooking isn’t their strong suit.
Practical Details
The entire class lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing. The private, small-group format ensures a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. The experience’s flexible booking policy, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adds peace of mind.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

For foodies, this class offers an immersive look into Hokkaido’s seafood-centered cuisine. If you’re eager to learn authentic techniques and enjoy eating your own creations in a homely setting, this experience hits the mark.
Culturally curious travelers will appreciate the matcha session, gaining insight into an important aspect of Japanese tradition. The location’s proximity to other sights makes it easy to blend this culinary lesson with sightseeing.
Value-wise, the price reflects not only the ingredients but also the personalized attention, cultural insights, and the chance to take home new skills. Although no transportation is included, the convenience of the meeting point and the intimate size make it a worthwhile investment.
Those seeking a more interactive, local experience rather than a large-scale class will find this tour appealing. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a tailored experience.
Final Thoughts

This Hokkaido Seafood Chirashi Sushi Experience with Matcha combines hands-on cooking, cultural learning, and a cozy setting—an authentic taste of Sapporo’s culinary scene. You’ll leave with new skills, a deeper appreciation for Japanese food traditions, and possibly a new favorite dish to try at home.
If you’re looking for a meaningful culinary adventure that goes beyond eating out, this class offers practical knowledge wrapped in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The opportunity to cook with fresh local seafood and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony makes it a memorable addition to any Sapporo trip.
This experience is best suited for travelers who value authentic, small-group interactions, and want to take away more than just a fleeting taste of Japan’s food culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious beginner, you’ll find plenty to love here.
FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
No, the experience does not include hotel transport. You’ll need to meet at the designated location, which is accessible by public transportation.
How long does the class last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including cooking, eating, and the matcha session.
What’s included in the price?
All ingredients for sushi and tempura, matcha, traditional sweets, and rental aprons and towels are provided.
Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the small-group format and detailed guidance make it perfect for beginners and those with some cooking experience alike.
Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Is transportation to the meeting point easy?
Yes, the location is near public transit and within walking distance of popular sights like Hokkaido Shrine.
What is the group size?
Classes are held in small groups of 2 to 3 people, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed environment.
This class offers a fantastic blend of culinary skill-building, cultural insight, and local flavor—perfect for those wanting a taste of authentic Sapporo.
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Looking for something different? Other Sapporo activities we've written about
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- Sapporo Insider Personal Shopper & Arcade Culture
- Sapporo: Hell Valley, Oyunuma and Dai-ichi Takimotokan Trip
- Sapporo Hidden Gems Walking Tour: Hokkaido Shrine, Mt.Moiwa, Cafe
- Enjoy Sapporo Snow Like a Local: Sled Build & Park Fun
- Private Tour to Sapporo’s Hidden Spots and it’s Culture
- Niseko New Chitose Airport Private Transfer | Licensed Driver
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