Kamakura Small Group Onigiri Making and Sake Tasting in Sake Bar

Kamakura, the historic city just outside Tokyo, offers a unique glimpse into Japanese culture. One way to experience it is through a hands-on workshop at a local sake bar. Visitors can try their hand at making traditional onigiri rice balls while sampling premium sakes. Led by knowledgeable instructors, this intimate experience allows participants to learn about culinary traditions and Japanese cuisine in a friendly, relaxed setting. What secrets might this activity unveil about the flavors and rituals of Japan?

Good To Know

• Immersive hands-on experience to craft traditional Japanese onigiri rice balls under the guidance of local experts.
• Sampling of premium sake with distinct flavor profiles, complementing the homemade onigiri.
• Personalized small group setting, maximum of 5 travelers, for a tailored cultural experience.
• Convenient transportation provided to and from the meeting point located in a Japanese sake salon.
• Engaging discussions about Japanese cuisine and alcohol, allowing participants to connect with the local culture.

Overview of the Activity

This Kamakura Small Group Onigiri Making and Sake Tasting activity allows travelers to enjoy the traditional Japanese culinary experience.

Participants will learn the art of making onigiri, or rice balls, while enjoying three small glasses of sake and snacks.

The activity takes place in a Japanese sake salon located in a restaurant complex in Kamakura.

The experience is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized session.

Transportation to and from the meeting point is available, making it a convenient and memorable way to explore the flavors of Kamakura.

Highlights of the Experience

Participants can look forward to an immersive cultural experience, as they learn the intricacies of crafting traditional Japanese onigiri, or rice balls, under the guidance of local experts.

During the hands-on class, guests will shape the rice, select fillings, and wrap the onigiri using time-honored techniques.

Afterward, they’ll enjoy sampling a variety of sakes, each with its own distinct flavor profile.

The intimate group setting allows for engaging discussions about the history and nuances of Japanese cuisine and alcohol.

This activity offers a unique opportunity to connect with local culture and create delicious mementos.

Sake Tasting at the Japanese Sake Salon

After crafting their own onigiri, guests move on to the Japanese Sake Salon on the second floor of the restaurant complex. Here, they’ll sample three small glasses of premium sake, guided by an expert. The sake tasting features a variety of styles, from fragrant and fruity to bold and earthy. Take a look at the sake menu:

The sake complements the homemade onigiri perfectly, creating a well-rounded and authentic Japanese culinary experience.

Hands-on Onigiri Making Workshop

Guests begin the experience by donning aprons and gathering around a communal table to craft their own onigiri, or Japanese rice balls.

Under the guidance of an expert instructor, they learn the traditional technique of shaping and filling the rice. Participants have a choice of fillings, such as umami-rich salmon or savory pickled plum, and can customize their creations.

The instructor provides step-by-step instructions, ensuring everyone leaves with perfectly formed onigiri.

Once finished, guests can proudly display their handmade treats and savor the satisfying flavors of their handiwork.

Complimentary Snacks and Refreshments

Along With the hands-on onigiri making, the experience includes a tasting of three small glasses of sake, along with a selection of snacks. The sake tasting features regional varieties, allowing participants to explore the nuances of this traditional Japanese beverage. The complementary snacks are carefully chosen to pair well with the sake, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

The sake and snacks provide a well-rounded and authentic introduction to Japanese culinary traditions, elevating the onigiri making activity.

Meeting Location and Transportation

The activity begins at the Japanese Sake Salon, located on the second floor of the left wing in the restaurant complex at 〒248-0015 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Sasamemachi, 6−7.

This is the meeting point, where the group will gather before starting the onigiri-making and sake-tasting experience.

Once the group is ready, they’ll be transported to the activity location in private transportation.

At the end of the experience, the group will return to the original meeting point.

The activity is conveniently situated near public transportation, making it easy for participants to get to and from the event.

Schedule and Availability

The activity is available on select dates from September 5th, 2024 to March 2nd, 2026. Guests can enjoy the Onigiri Making and Sake Tasting experience on the following schedule:

The activity operates on a limited schedule, allowing for an intimate and immersive experience. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own rice balls and sample select sake varieties during this 90-minute session.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

This Kamakura onigiri making and sake tasting experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation.

Per Japanese law, alcohol won’t be served to anyone under 20 years old.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the activity starts.

The experience takes place in a traditional Japanese sake salon, where guests will learn to craft rice balls and sample three small glasses of sake.

Group size is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers to ensure an intimate, hands-on experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Group Size Be Increased for Larger Parties?

The activity’s maximum group size is 5 travelers, as stated in the overview. While larger parties may inquire, the host likely cannot accommodate groups exceeding this limit given the intimate nature of the experience.

Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available for the Onigiri?

According to the activity details, vegetarian and gluten-free onigiri options aren’t explicitly mentioned. However, guests can likely request customizations when making the rice balls. It’s best to inquire about any dietary needs when booking the experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Experience?

The experience has a casual dress code. Guests can wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing as they’ll be actively making onigiri. There’s no formal attire requirement, so participants can dress in whatever they feel relaxed and at ease in.

Can Participants Take Photos During the Sake Tasting and Onigiri Making?

Yes, participants can take photos during the sake tasting and onigiri making. The activity overview doesn’t mention any restrictions on photography, so guests are free to capture their experience and share it with others.

Do Participants Receive a Recipe Card or Instructions to Replicate the Onigiri at Home?

Participants receive detailed instructions and a recipe card to replicate the onigiri at home. This allows them to continue their culinary experience and share the traditional Japanese snack with others after the activity.

The Sum Up

The Kamakura Small Group Onigiri Making and Sake Tasting offers a unique culture. Participants craft their own onigiri and sample premium sake under the guidance of local experts. This intimate workshop provides a delightful opportunity to explore Japanese culinary traditions and create lasting memories. With a maximum of five attendees, it’s a personalized experience not to be missed.