Tokyo; Sushi Cooking Lesson at Japan’s Leading Culinary School

Getting a taste of Japan’s culinary magic in Tokyo isn’t complete without a hands-on cooking experience, especially if you’re a foodie eager to learn the secrets behind some of the country’s most beloved dishes. This tempura and sushi cooking class at ABC Cooking Studio offers an authentic insight into Japanese cuisine, all within a friendly, small-group setting. The experience lasts about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to learn, cook, and enjoy your own creations.

What makes this class stand out is its focus on tempura, a classic Japanese dish known for its crispy batter and delicate flavors. Plus, you’ll get to make a variety of dishes from sushi rolls to tamagoyaki, topped off with a traditional miso soup. One of the highlights? You get to sample five different types of shochu, Japan’s distilled liquor, alongside your meal.

However, it’s worth noting that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to comfortably walk from Tokyo station or nearby. This class is an excellent choice for those who want a practical, engaging culinary experience in Tokyo that emphasizes authenticity and fun—perfect for foodies, families, or anyone curious about Japanese cooking.

Key Points

• Authentic Japanese Cuisine: Focus on tempura, sushi, and more, led by a professional instructor.
• Inclusive Meal: Enjoy your handmade dishes along with a tasting of five shochus.
• Walkable Location: Close to Tokyo station, no transportation included.
• Vegetarian Options: Available, ensuring it’s accessible for different dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Minimum age is 9, making it suitable for families with children.
• Value for Money: For just $56.47, you get a full cooking lesson, ingredients, apron, and lunch.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue and Meeting Point

The class takes place at ABC Cooking Studio’s Marunouchi location, specifically on the B2 floor of the Kokusai Bldg, near Tokyo Station. This spot is a hub for culinary education, and its accessibility is a major plus. As noted in reviews, the studio is a short 3-minute walk from Yurakucho Station and directly connected to Hibiya Station, making it easy to reach even if you’re coming from different parts of Tokyo. The location’s centrality means you can incorporate it into a day of exploring Tokyo without too much fuss.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Do

The class begins promptly at 11:00 am, so arriving a few minutes early helps you settle in. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by an English-speaking instruction team, ensuring clarity throughout your session.

You’ll be provided with everything you need: an apron, kitchen towel, chef’s hat, and high-quality ingredients. The instructor, praised for warmth and thoroughness—specifically someone like Teacher Miwa—guides you through each step. We loved the way she explained the techniques behind achieving that perfect crispy tempura batter, emphasizing the importance of temperature control and batter consistency.

You’ll prepare a variety of dishes: sushi roll, Temari sushi (small ball-shaped sushi), Tamagoyaki (Japanese egg omelet), and miso soup. The focus on tempura involves frying shrimp, vegetables, and mushrooms to golden perfection. Vegetarian options are also available, so don’t worry if you avoid seafood or meat.

The Food and Drinks

Once your dishes are ready, you sit down to enjoy your handiwork with a side of beverage tasting. The experience includes a tasting of five different shochus, which are Japanese distilled liquors. This pairing elevates the meal, giving you a more authentic Japanese dining atmosphere.

Many reviewers—like TeresaL8787—highlight how enjoyable this part is: “This is a cooking class that parents and kids, children and adults, all can enjoy. Ask for Miwa Sensei. She is warm, kind, thorough, and detailed in her teaching.” The meal isn’t just about creating; it’s about savoring the flavors and learning how these dishes fit into Japanese culture.

Group Size and Atmosphere

This is a small group experience, with a maximum of six travelers, fostering a relaxed and interactive atmosphere. The intimate setting means plenty of room for questions and personalized guidance. During the class, you might also notice the friendly camaraderie among participants, chatting about similar interests.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $56.47 covers the entire experience—ingredients, instruction, apron, lunch, and the shochu tasting. Considering that many culinary classes in major cities can run significantly higher, this is a remarkably good value. Plus, you leave with new skills and a good-sized meal.

Note that transportation isn’t included, so plan your route accordingly. The location is near several public transit options, including the Yurikamucho and Hibiya lines, making it easy to incorporate into your Tokyo itinerary.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for foodies eager to master Japanese dishes, especially tempura and sushi. It’s perfect for families with kids over 9 years old, as the minimum age is set at nine, and the atmosphere is welcoming for all ages. If you’re someone who enjoys hands-on learning and tasting different drinks alongside your meal, you’ll find this experience both fun and educational.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences and want to take home new culinary skills will find this class particularly rewarding. It also suits those who prefer a relaxed, small-group environment rather than a large tour setup.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this class offers excellent value for a hands-on, authentic Japanese culinary experience in Tokyo. The focus on tempura—a dish often associated with Japanese street food—gives visitors a chance to learn a technique that can be replicated at home. Plus, the inclusion of sushi, tamagoyaki, and miso soup rounds out the meal beautifully, making it a comprehensive introduction to Japanese cuisine.

The expert guidance from friendly instructors like Miwa ensures that even beginners will leave feeling confident in their new skills. The added bonus of tasting five different types of shochu gives an authentic cultural touch that elevates the experience beyond just cooking.

If you’re in Tokyo and looking for a fun, interactive way to learn about Japanese food, this class will serve up memories—and skills—that last well beyond your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not included. The class location is within walking distance from Tokyo station and accessible via nearby subway lines, making it easy to reach.

What dishes will I be learning to cook?
You’ll learn to make sushi rolls, Temari sushi, Tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), miso soup, and tempura (shrimp, vegetables, and mushrooms).

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options for tempura and other dishes can be accommodated upon request.

What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age is 9 years old, making it suitable for families with children or teenagers.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers an English-speaking instructor, all ingredients, an apron, a kitchen towel, chef’s hat, and your lunch. The tasting of five different shochus is also included.

How long does the class last?
The experience runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity within a day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the class, receiving a full refund.

This sushi and tempura cooking class in Tokyo offers an engaging, authentic, and value-packed way to deepen your appreciation for Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned foodie, you’ll walk away with new skills, a full belly, and stories to tell.