Discover the art of wagashi, Japan’s beloved traditional confections, in an intimate setting in Yokohama. This personalized class offers a hands-on experience to craft these delicate sweets under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor. Indulge in vegan and gluten-free options as you sip matcha tea and uncover the rich cultural heritage behind these delectable treats. With a take-home recipe booklet, you’ll be equipped to recreate the magic of this class in your own kitchen. Prepare to embark on a sensory journey through the flavors and traditions of Japan.
Good To Know
- Learn to make authentic Japanese wagashi sweets in a private home setting in Yokohama, a suburb of Tokyo.
- Vegan and gluten-free wagashi options are available, accompanied by matcha green tea.
- Participants will be picked up from a nearby station or bus stop and transported to the private home for the class.
- During the class, the host will guide learners through the traditional wagashi-making process, allowing them to create their own intricate designs.
- Participants can take home their handmade wagashi creations and a recipe booklet to continue their wagashi-making journey.
Overview of the Experience
The activity allows travelers to learn the art of making traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi in a private home setting in Yokohama, a suburb of Tokyo.
It’s priced at $53.83 per person and can accommodate up to 4 participants.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the experience promises an immersive and personalized wagashi-making session.
The private home location and small group size ensure an intimate and hands-on learning environment.
Travelers can indulge in vegan and gluten-free wagashi options, complemented by the inclusion of matcha green tea.
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Ingredients and Dietary Options
As the activity caters to various dietary preferences, the ingredients used for the wagashi are suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
The session includes:
- Traditional wagashi made with plant-based ingredients.
- Gluten-free wagashi options for those with dietary restrictions.
- Matcha (green tea) served as the complementary beverage.
- A knowledgeable instructor who can accommodate special requests and dietary needs.
The diverse ingredient selection ensures that all participants can fully engage in the wagashi making experience and enjoy the delectable Japanese confections, regardless of their dietary requirements.
Meeting and Pickup Information
To start the experience, participants meet at the Azamino Station in Yokohama. Alternatively, they can meet at the Obacho Bus stop, just 3 stops from Azamino.
The meeting point is in Obacho, Aoba Ward, near the Mizuho Bank. Guests will be greeted by the host, who’ll be driving a red Toyota car.
The host will then transport the participants to the private home where the Wagashi-making class will take place. This convenient pickup and meeting arrangement ensures a smooth start to the immersive Wagashi experience in Yokohama’s suburban setting.
Getting to the Location
How does one get to the private home where the Wagashi-making class takes place? The meeting point is in Obacho, Aoba Ward, Yokohama, near the Mizuho Bank.
Travelers have a couple options to reach this location:
- Take the train to Azamino Station and walk 5 minutes to the meeting point.
- Take the bus to the Obacho bus stop, which is 3 stops from Azamino.
- A red Toyota car will pick up guests from either the Azamino Station or the Obacho bus stop.
- The location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible.
The Wagashi Making Process
Participants arrive at the private home in Obacho, Yokohama and gather around the traditional wagashi-making station.
The host demonstrates each step, from measuring rice flour to kneading the dough. Learners follow along, shaping the sweet dough into delicate, bite-sized wagashi.
Using a variety of tools, they create intricate designs and patterns. The host offers guidance, ensuring everyone’s wagashi looks visually stunning.
As the wagashi take shape, the scent of matcha tea fills the air. Learners savor their handmade creations, appreciating the artistry and centuries-old techniques used to make these beloved Japanese sweets.
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Enjoying the Matcha Tea
As the wagashi take shape, the host prepares a fresh batch of matcha tea.
Matcha, the finely ground powder of special green tea leaves, is an integral part of the wagashi experience.
The host follows a careful ritual to prepare the tea:
- Sift the matcha powder into a bowl.
- Add hot water and whisk briskly to create a smooth, frothy liquid.
- Pour the vibrant green tea into delicate ceramic cups.
- Serve the matcha alongside the handcrafted wagashi, inviting guests to savor the exquisite combination of flavors and textures.
Takeaways and Souvenirs
The class culminates with the opportunity to take home the wagashi creations. Participants can package their handmade sweets to enjoy later or give as gifts.
The instructor provides boxes and wrapping materials so guests can neatly present their wagashi. This makes for a thoughtful souvenir to share the experience with friends and family.
Guests also receive a recipe booklet with instructions for the wagashi styles they learned. This allows them to continue their wagashi-making journey at home.
The experience provides a memorable taste of traditional Japanese confectionery that can be shared long after the class ends.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Guests can reserve their spot with a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, providing flexibility with their booking.
The cancellation policy is straightforward – guests can get a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This ensures guests have the freedom to change their plans if needed.
The experience is subject to availability, so prompt booking is recommended.
To summarize the booking and cancellation details:
- "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option available
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start
- Prompt booking advised due to limited availability
- Confirmation received within 48 hours, pending availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Wagashi Making Experience Last?
The wagashi making experience typically lasts around 2-3 hours, allowing participants ample time to learn the traditional techniques and create their own delicate Japanese confections. The precise duration may vary depending on the pace and needs of the group.
Are the Instructors Fluent in English?
The instructors are fluent in English, able to provide clear and detailed instructions throughout the wagashi-making experience. This ensures participants can fully engage and successfully create traditional Japanese sweets.
Can Participants Take Home the Wagashi They Make?
Participants can take home the wagashi they make during the experience. The private home class ensures you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor and learn the art of traditional Japanese sweets.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Activity?
There are no age restrictions for this activity. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the wagashi-making experience at the private home in Yokohama, though children may require adult supervision during the session.
What Should Participants Bring or Wear to the Experience?
Participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes. They don’t need to bring any special equipment or ingredients, as these will be provided during the experience. Light refreshments, including matcha tea, are included.
The Sum Up
This intimate wagashi-making class in Yokohama offers a unique cultural experience. Participants will learn the art of crafting traditional Japanese sweets, enjoying vegan and gluten-free options. With a knowledgeable instructor and a small group size, it’s a hands-on opportunity to create delicious wagashi and savor matcha tea. Take home your creations and a recipe booklet to continue the experience.
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