Authentic Sushi Making with a former Michelin sushi chef

If you’re heading to Tokyo and craving an authentic culinary experience, this sushi-making class is a standout choice. Led by a former Michelin-starred sushi chef, the workshop promises more than just making sushi — it offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s revered sushi traditions. The small-group setting, passionate guidance, and focus on quality ingredients make this a memorable activity for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines education with fun. Not only do you get to craft your own sushi, but you also learn about the history of edomae-style sushi, the techniques behind perfecting each piece, and some fun facts through quizzes and storytelling. One possible consideration is that the class lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes, which might feel a bit tight for those wanting a leisurely pace or more in-depth exploration. This tour suits anyone eager to gain hands-on sushi skills in a friendly, intimate environment — perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to deepen their culinary knowledge.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn from a sushi chef with Michelin experience, gaining insights from someone at the top of their craft.
• Hands-on Learning: You’ll make three types of sushi — nigiri, maki, and gunkan — with ingredients carefully selected from a fish market.
• Educational and Fun: The workshop includes a sushi history lesson, a quiz with prizes, and photo opportunities.
• Quality Focus: The ingredients are top-notch, ensuring your sushi tastes as good as it looks, and the process emphasizes natural flavors through techniques like marinating and curing.
• Family Friendly: Kids over 6 are welcome, with participation costs the same as adults, making this a great family activity.
• Optional Drinks: Sake tastings are available to enhance your sushi experience, adding a traditional touch.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience is comprehensive and designed to give you maximum value. For $86.08 per person, you get:

• A 1 hour and 45 minutes workshop led by an expert guide.
• All necessary ingredients to make your sushi.
• A small group size, capped at 15 travelers, ensuring personal attention.
• Guidance in English, making it accessible regardless of your language skills.
• The chance to learn about sushi’s history and techniques through engaging explanations and quizzes.

Extra costs include drinks, with the shop offering a Sake Tasting Set for those interested. Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own commute to the meeting point in Nishiazabu. Dietary restrictions like vegetarian or vegan options are accommodated, which is a plus for those with special diets.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The workshop begins at the A-PULSE AZABU STUDIO, a convenient location near public transport. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and introduced to your expert guide. The session kicks off with a brief history of edomae sushi, giving context to the art you’re about to learn. This background helps deepen your appreciation for the craft and elevates the experience beyond just rolling sushi.

Next, you’ll participate in a fun quiz — a light-hearted way to test your newfound knowledge and win small prizes. Then, the sushi master will give a detailed lecture on techniques, highlighting how marinating, aging, drying, and curing enhance each ingredient’s natural flavors. This part is especially appreciated by those interested in the culinary science behind sushi.

The core of the workshop involves making your own sushi. You will craft three types of sushi:

• Nigiri: Classic fish atop rice, with seasonal variations.
• Maki: Traditional rolled sushi, with ingredients like kampyo (gourd) possibly changing with the season.
• Gunkan: Battleship-shaped sushi topped with various ingredients, again depending on seasonal availability.

All ingredients are sourced fresh from the fish market and prepared to pristine condition, ensuring quality and authenticity. The chef ensures everyone gets involved, guiding you step-by-step to perfect your rolls and nigiri. Throughout, you’ll have ample opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and enjoy tasting your creations.

Finally, the session wraps up with a communal tasting of the sushi you’ve made, along with green tea and soup. The intimate size of the group fosters a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for socializing or sharing tips.

The Experience From Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the ingredients. Alisa R., one of the recent guests, highlighted how the “ingredients were of excellent quality so the food tasted great including the soup and green tea,” emphasizing that the experience was both fun and educational. She also appreciated the engaging nature of the quiz and the insights into sushi’s history.

Many comments mention the friendly team and instructor, making the environment welcoming for newcomers and families. The small group size ensures personalized guidance, as one reviewer noted, “The whole team was nice and made the experience fun.” The focus on craftsmanship and the secret techniques shared by the chef elevate the class from a simple cooking activity to a true cultural exchange.

The location’s proximity to public transportation adds to the convenience, and the ability to accommodate dietary restrictions makes it accessible to a wide audience. Given the positive feedback, you can expect a well-organized, informative, and enjoyable session that leaves you with new skills and delicious memories.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When evaluating the value, consider the combination of expert guidance, high-quality ingredients, and the interactive, educational format. For just over $85, you’re getting a session led by a chef with notable credentials, plus the ability to make and eat three types of sushi. The small group size and inclusion of a history lesson add depth to the experience, making it more than just a cooking class.

While it’s not a long-day tour, the intimacy and focus on quality make this a worthwhile investment for foodies or those looking for an authentic cultural activity. If you want to understand sushi beyond the supermarket and taste your own creation, this class offers a genuinely valuable glimpse into Japan’s culinary heritage.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culinary travelers, and families with children over 6 seeking an interactive activity. It suits those interested in learning techniques used by professional chefs and those who enjoy engaging, hands-on experiences. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, it’s a fantastic way to meet fellow travelers and share a fun, memorable moment.

Final Thoughts

This sushi-making class offers a rare chance to learn from a chef with Michelin experience in a cozy, welcoming environment. The focus on quality ingredients, authentic techniques, and engaging storytelling makes it stand out from generic cooking classes. You’ll leave not only with new skills but also a deeper appreciation for sushi’s artistry.

For travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Japanese cuisine or trying to master some sushi skills themselves, this workshop delivers excellent value, memorable moments, and genuine cultural insight. The small-group setting and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience that’s worth every yen.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and above are welcome. For kids over 6, the cost is the same as an adult. Younger children can participate if they share a set with a parent, at no extra charge.

What’s included in the price?
For $86.08, you’ll receive about 1 hour and 45 minutes of instruction, all ingredients for making three types of sushi, and guidance in English. Drinks like sake are available at an extra cost.

Where does the tour start and end?
The workshop begins at A-PULSE AZABU STUDIO in Nishiazabu and finishes back at the same location.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be provided, making the class accessible for various dietary needs.

Is transportation included?
No, private transport isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point near public transit.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 39 days in advance, reflecting the popularity and limited group size. Early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

This class is a wonderful choice for anyone wanting to step beyond the typical sightseeing and truly connect with Japanese culinary culture. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned foodie, the hands-on nature and expert guidance make it a worthwhile addition to your Tokyo itinerary.