Make traditional sweets “Nerikiri” and matcha in Shibuya

Making Traditional Sweets “Nerikiri” and Matcha in Shibuya — An Authentic Japanese Cultural Experience

If you’re looking for a way to connect with Japan’s culinary traditions beyond just eating sushi or ramen, this Nerikiri sweets and matcha workshop in Shibuya offers a charming, hands-on window into Japan’s sweet-making heritage. Hosted by MumJapanese sweets studio, this experience combines creativity, culture, and delicious tasting—all in a conveniently located spot in Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya area.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to craft your own Nerikiri sweets—a beautifully delicate, bean paste-based delicacy. Second, the chance to design your own sweets with seasonal motifs or playful characters, making it perfect for both traditionalists and those with a flair for fun. Third, the experience includes a table-style tea ceremony paired with premium matcha and regional Japanese sweets, offering an authentic taste of Japan’s tea culture.

A potential consideration? While the experience is ideal for many, children under five might find it less suitable due to the nature of the delicate work involved. Also, as it’s a small group setting, those seeking a very large, bustling class might find it intimate rather than lively.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to learn and create, families wanting a memorable cultural activity, or anyone curious about Japanese sweets beyond the commercialized options. With a reasonable price of $61 and a flexible booking policy, it offers both value and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic craftsmanship: You’ll hand-make four different Nerikiri sweets, learning traditional techniques from a skilled host.
• Creative design: You can choose seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms or get playful with characters such as Totoro or Pokémon.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Nerikiri contains no animal products, making it perfect for vegetarians.
• Cultural immersion: The experience includes a traditional table-style tea ceremony with matcha and regional sweets, deepening your understanding of Japanese tea culture.
• Personalized experience: Small group sizes and friendly hosts ensure a personal touch, as confirmed by a reviewer noting their host Hannah was caring and hospitable.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Location

The experience begins in front of CHUMS OMOTESANDO, located at 5-2-21 Jingumae, Shibuya. This spot is easy to find and centrally located in Tokyo’s fashionable Harajuku/Omotesando area, offering a convenient starting point. After greeting your host, the group will walk together just about 20 seconds to the studio, ensuring a smooth start.

Nerikiri Sweet-Making Session

The core activity involves creating four different Nerikiri sweets, a Japanese confection made from sweet bean paste and rice flour. These sweets are known for their delicate, pliable texture and beautiful appearance, often resembling flowers, leaves, or characters. The host guides you through shaping techniques, and you’ll be designing sweets with themes of your choice—be it seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms and maple leaves or playful characters like Totoro or Pokémon.

From reviews, it’s clear that the host Hannah was particularly attentive to detail, making sure everyone understood each step while keeping the atmosphere friendly and relaxed. Since Nerikiri is made with vegetarian ingredients, it’s inclusive for all dietary preferences, and the process is designed to be accessible even for beginners.

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Design and Creativity

The workshop encourages your creativity; you’re free to select themes that resonate with your personal style. Whether you prefer elegant, traditional motifs or playful, modern characters, the limited number of sweets you make ensures ample time for experimentation. The sweets are also a wonderful souvenir, and you’ll leave with four uniquely designed creations—perhaps perfect for gifting or simply admiring your handiwork.

Tea Ceremony and Tasting

After completing your sweet masterpieces, the experience shifts to a table-style tea ceremony. You’ll be served authentic matcha green tea along with a selection of regional Japanese sweets sourced from different parts of Japan. This offers a wonderful contrast: the new, handmade sweets you just created and the carefully curated traditional sweets, allowing you to taste and compare flavors.

The tea ceremony is a highlight, not just for the flavor but for the serene atmosphere it creates. The tea is paired with regional sweets, giving you insight into Japan’s regional diversity in confectionery. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the chance to taste exclusive regional sweets and enjoy a traditional experience in a modern setting.

Duration and Group Size

The entire session lasts around 90 minutes, striking a good balance between hands-on activity and relaxation. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, which is often highlighted as a positive aspect. It’s an ideal size for those who want to learn closely from the host and have their questions answered.

Price and Value

At $61 per person, this experience offers excellent value for a cultural workshop that combines hands-on crafting, tasting, and cultural education. When you consider the quality of the sweets, the skill level of the host, and the included tea ceremony, it’s a compelling package. The ability to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, and the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours ahead makes it less risky for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the experience is popular among adults and families, children under five are not recommended due to the delicate nature of the work involved. It’s worth noting that the experience is offered in both English and Japanese, making it accessible for international visitors.

Why This Experience Works

We loved the way the host Hannah combined professionalism with warmth—she clearly knew her craft and made sure everyone felt comfortable with their creations. The chance to design sweets with seasonal motifs or fun characters adds a layer of personalization and fun, especially for those traveling with kids or who enjoy playful design. The regional sweets served at the tea ceremony are a delightful touch, giving you a taste of Japan beyond the usual tourist fare.

This experience isn’t just about making sweets; it’s about understanding and appreciating a piece of Japan’s cultural fabric. Plus, the location in Shibuya means you can easily incorporate this activity into a larger day exploring Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods.

The Sum Up

This Nerikiri sweets and matcha experience is a well-rounded, authentic cultural activity that offers more than just a sweet-making class. It’s an opportunity to create, taste, and learn about Japanese traditions in a friendly, accessible setting. The small group size and knowledgeable host ensure a personalized experience, making it especially great for travelers seeking meaningful and memorable activities.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or traveling with family, this workshop provides a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend time in Tokyo. It suits those who appreciate craftsmanship, enjoy hands-on activities, or want a special souvenir to remind them of their trip.

For anyone wanting to explore Japan’s culinary artistry beyond the common tourist options, this workshop in Shibuya is a rewarding choice. Just remember, booking in advance is wise, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or with kids.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Nerikiri sweets are made from sweet bean paste and rice flour, containing no animal products, making them vegetarian-friendly.

Can children participate in this workshop?
It’s not recommended for children under five due to the delicate and detailed nature of the sweet-making process.

Where is the meeting point?
The tour begins in front of CHUMS OMOTESANDO in Jingumae, Shibuya, and then walks a short distance to the studio.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience takes about 90 minutes, including making sweets and enjoying the tea ceremony.

What is included in the price?
You get to make four Nerikiri sweets, participate in a table-style tea ceremony with matcha, and sample regional Japanese sweets.

Is this experience offered in English?
Yes, the experience is available in both English and Japanese.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
It’s a small group, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What is the cost of the tour?
The experience costs $61 per person, offering good value considering the quality and inclusions.

This sweet-making workshop in Shibuya stands out as a meaningful, fun, and delicious way to deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple, it’s definitely worth considering as part of your Tokyo adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby