Tokyo: Mochi and Nerikiri Making Class with Matcha Tasting

Getting a taste of Japan’s culinary traditions beyond just eating in restaurants can be a revelation. This Mochi and Nerikiri Making Class offers a unique look into Japan’s sweet culture right in a cozy, private studio in Tokyo. With a knowledgeable instructor guiding you through the process, you’ll get to create your own wagashi (traditional sweets) while learning about their significance, then relax with a self-whisked bowl of matcha. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines hands-on activity, cultural insight, and a taste of authentic Japanese tea ceremony spirit.

What sets this class apart? It’s not just about making sweets—it’s about understanding their cultural roots. The personalized instruction ensures you walk away with new skills, while the opportunity to taste your own creations adds an extra layer of satisfaction. Plus, the friendly, local guide provides insider tips on Tokyo’s attractions, making it perfect for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

A potential consideration might be the limited group size—with only eight participants max, it offers a cozy, interactive environment but may not suit those craving a larger, more social class. Still, this intimacy enhances the learning experience. The class is best for culinary enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone eager to bring a piece of Japanese tradition home.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn about the significance of mochi and nerikiri in Japan.
• Hands-On Activity: Make your own seasonal sweets with expert guidance.
• Matcha Tasting & Etiquette: Enjoy freshly whisked matcha and understand the tea ceremony’s spirit.
• Local Insights: Receive personal tips on Tokyo attractions and lifestyle.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants for more personalized attention.
• Practical Skills: Leave with instructions to recreate the sweets at home.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Experience About?

This 2.5-hour class in a private Tokyo studio offers a detailed look into two of Japan’s most beloved confections—mochi and nerikiri wagashi. The setting is intimate and welcoming, with a focus on hands-on learning. You’ll work with sticky rice dough and delicate sweet bean paste, guided by a certified instructor who speaks both English and Japanese.

The class begins with an introduction to the importance of these sweets in Japanese culture, emphasizing their role in celebrations and tea ceremonies. You’ll discover how mochi, made of pounded sticky rice, symbolizes good fortune, and how nerikiri, crafted with sweetened white bean paste and designed in seasonal motifs, reflects Japan’s aesthetic sensibility. The instructor shares tips on how to handle the sticky dough, a skill that’s surprisingly tricky but highly rewarding once mastered.

As you craft your sweets, the instructor explains their traditional uses and variations. Two of the more intricate nerikiri pieces are particularly fun—one reviewer mentioned enjoying making “two especially intricate and fun” pieces, highlighting that even beginners can create beautiful, authentic-looking wagashi with guidance. The process involves patience and attention to detail, but the results are worth the effort.

After creating your sweets, you’ll transition to the tea ceremony portion, where you learn how to whisk matcha properly. The instructor explains the customs around drinking matcha, emphasizing the spirit of Chado—the traditional Japanese way of tea. You’ll enjoy your sweets alongside your freshly prepared matcha, making for a calming, mindful experience.

Throughout, the instructor shares insights into Tokyo life and local tips, enriching your understanding of Japanese culture beyond the sweets. The class is suitable for all levels, from complete novices to more experienced home bakers.

The Meeting Point & Practical Details

Located just three minutes from Meguro Station, the private studio is easy to find—simply walk to the right of a Family Mart, take the ramp in front of the sign, and press 303 to enter. The building, with a hair salon and drug store on the ground floor, feels welcoming. The class itself is limited to small groups of eight, fostering a comfortable environment where questions are encouraged.

Flexibility and convenience are evident here: you can reserve your spot without paying upfront, cancel up to 24 hours before, and enjoy the experience at a time that fits your schedule. The class is conducted in both English and Japanese, making it accessible for international travelers.

What Do You Actually Do During the Class?

Expect to spend around 2.5 hours making about six pieces of wagashi—including mochi and nerikiri in seasonal motifs. The process is detailed but approachable, with step-by-step instructions on handling sticky dough and shaping sweets into beautiful forms. Reviewers have praised the instructor, Ayumi, for her friendly, informative approach, which makes it easy for beginners to follow along. Her local perspective provides added context, making the experience richer than just a cooking class.

One participant from the US, Sam, described Ayumi as “friendly and informative,” and appreciated learning “many things from a local’s perspective about Japan.” They also valued the opportunity to learn how to recreate the sweets at home, which hints at the practical value of the class beyond the moment.

The matcha portion is equally well-executed. You will learn not only how to whisk matcha properly but also about its cultural importance. The instructor teaches the etiquette in drinking matcha, emphasizing a respectful, mindful approach—something that transforms a simple tea into a meaningful ritual.

The Authenticity and Cultural Significance

This isn’t just a cooking class—it’s an introduction to Chado, the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, and the artistry behind wagashi. Making nerikiri, in particular, allows for artistic expression, as the seasonal motifs reflect Japan’s aesthetic sensibilities. Knowing the background enriches your appreciation for these sweets, whether you eat them during a tea ceremony or serve them at a special occasion back home.

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The Value of the Experience

While the class costs a reasonable fee, what you’re really paying for is expert guidance, authentic techniques, and a cultural connection. The ability to create multiple pieces—some with intricate details—makes it a memorable hands-on activity that’s more than just a demonstration. Plus, the small group size ensures you get personalized attention and can ask plenty of questions.

The fact that you get to enjoy all your creations with freshly whisked matcha means you walk away with not only new skills but also a sense of accomplishment and a delicious souvenir of your time in Tokyo.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, especially those interested in traditional Japanese sweets and tea culture. It’s equally suited for travelers who want to understand more about Japanese aesthetics and customs, as well as those seeking a calm, mindful activity away from busy sightseeing. Families with children over 4 can participate, but it’s less suitable for wheelchair users due to the venue layout.

Final Thoughts

This class offers a well-rounded look into Japan’s sweet and tea traditions, with a friendly instructor who guides you through every step. It’s a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours learning a new skill, experiencing Japanese culture firsthand, and tasting your own handmade treats.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a peaceful, authentic activity in Tokyo, this experience delivers genuine value. It’s an intimate, thoughtfully curated session that combines tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural insight—sure to be a highlight of any trip.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The instructor provides clear, step-by-step guidance, making it accessible even if you’ve never made wagashi before.

How many sweets will I make during the class?
You will create approximately six pieces of wagashi, including mochi and nerikiri, with some more intricate designs.

Can I learn how to make sweets similar to those I see in Japanese shops?
Yes, the instructor teaches traditional techniques and seasonal motifs so you can recreate similar sweets at home.

What is included in the class fee?
The fee covers all ingredients, instruction, and the sweets you make. You’ll also enjoy a freshly whisked bowl of matcha.

Is the location hard to find?
No, it’s very close to Meguro Station, just a few minutes on foot. Clear instructions are provided, and the entrance is easy to access.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the class for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

To sum it up, this mochi and nerikiri making class is a delightful, authentic peek into Japan’s culinary and cultural traditions. It’s ideal for those who want to learn new skills, enjoy a quiet moment amidst a busy trip, and bring home a tangible piece of Japan’s aesthetic. With friendly guidance, small group intimacy, and a focus on cultural storytelling, it promises more than just a hands-on activity—it’s an enriching experience that you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

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