How to use Japanese knife, Tuna Cutting and Sushi Workshop

Introduction

Imagine standing in the heart of Tokyo, wielding a professional Japanese knife to expertly cut into a freshly prepared block of tuna. That’s exactly what this How to Use Japanese Knife, Tuna Cutting, and Sushi Workshop offers—an authentic, hands-on experience in the art of sushi-making. Set in Senday, this small-group tour (max 10 people) provides a rare chance to learn professional techniques from seasoned sushi chefs, all while creating a meal you get to enjoy afterward.

What we really love about this experience is its combination of educational value and practicality. You’re not just watching a demo—you’re actively involved in slicing, shaping, and tasting. Plus, the fact that all ingredients are included makes it straightforward and hassle-free. One thing to keep in mind is that the 2-hour duration means you’ll want to arrive ready for a quick, engaging session rather than a lengthy class. This experience suits those curious about Japanese culinary arts, lovers of sushi, and travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Hands-On Learning: You’ll actively participate in cutting tuna and making sushi, not just observe.
• Professional Guidance: Taught by seasoned sushi chefs who share insider tips.
• All-Inclusive: Tuna, sushi ingredients, and utensils are provided, making it easy and stress-free.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Ideal for Foodies: Perfect for those wanting a practical skill and delicious breakfast.
• Great Value: The price includes both instruction and a memorable meal.

This tour is more than a typical cooking class; it’s an authentic dive into Japan’s sushi craftsmanship. Starting at 9:30 am in Minato City, you’ll meet your guide at a conveniently located spot near public transportation, making it easy to access from anywhere in Tokyo. The meeting point is straightforward, with clear directions, which is a big plus when navigating a busy city like Tokyo.

Over the course of roughly two hours, you’ll be introduced to the anatomy of tuna and learn how professional chefs approach cutting it. This isn’t just about slicing fish—it’s about understanding which parts are best for different types of sushi, and how to handle the knife safely and effectively. The workshop is designed to be accessible for beginners but still insightful enough for those with some sushi experience. The focus on technique helps you appreciate the skill involved in perfect cuts, which can be surprisingly challenging.

Why Cutting Tuna Matters

You’ll learn from expert chefs, Azusa and Adam, who bring a wealth of knowledge and friendliness. A common highlight from reviews is how uniquely educational this experience is—getting to cut multiple cuts of tuna with a professional is rare outside of a proper sushi restaurant or market tour. One reviewer noted that making sushi was “humbling” because of how technical the process can be, giving you new respect for sushi chefs’ craft.

The involvement doesn’t stop at the knife—after the tuna is prepared, you’ll make your own sushi, shaping nigiri and rolling it into neat, attractive pieces. The ingredients are fresh, and the chefs ensure you understand how to handle the rice and fish for the best results. Several participants mention how delicious the final product is, especially since they’ve had a hand in its creation.

The Market Tour and Behind-the-Scenes Access

A standout feature that reviewers highlighted is the behind-the-scenes glimpse of Toyosu Market, which adds context and depth to the experience. You get a brief tour of this famous fish market, discovering how tuna is bought and selected—sometimes receiving VIP access that many travelers don’t get. This behind-the-scenes element elevates the workshop from a simple class to an educational tour about Japan’s seafood industry.

Value for Money

At roughly $200 per person, the price might seem steep compared to a standard sushi restaurant meal, but the value lies in the expertise, the hands-on nature, and the unique insight into tuna preparation. You walk away with not only new skills but also a sense of accomplishment and a tasty breakfast to enjoy. Participants consistently mention how much they appreciated the personalized attention in this small group and the professionalism of the instructors.

Practical Details & Logistics

The tour is well-organized, with confirmation within 48 hours and a flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. The group size of 10 makes for an engaging yet relaxed environment, where questions are encouraged. The experience is ideal for travelers who want a practical skill, as well as those who enjoy tasting and learning about Japanese food culture.

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guides and start with a brief introduction to the history and different parts of tuna—an educational component that helps you understand why certain cuts are used for sushi, sashimi, or other dishes. Then, you’ll be shown how to properly handle a Japanese knife, an essential skill for any aspiring sushi chef.

Once comfortable with the tools, the real fun begins. Under the watchful eye of Azusa or Adam, you’ll practice making precise cuts, first shaping the tuna and then using that to craft your own sushi. This hands-on approach means you’ll learn the correct grip, the proper angle, and how to make clean, attractive cuts. Many reviews note how humbling it is to see how difficult it can be to cut fish perfectly, offering genuine insight into the chef’s craft.

The ingredients are fresh, and the kitchen is well-equipped. After slicing the tuna, you’ll make various types of sushi, including nigiri, with your own hands. The process involves shaping rice, adding the right amount of wasabi, and topping it with your sliced tuna. The chefs are patient, encouraging, and eager to share tips, which makes the experience both educational and fun.

Making Sushi: A Delightful Finale

Once your sushi is assembled, it’s time to taste your creations. This is a key moment—these are not just practice pieces but actual breakfast sushi made with fresh ingredients. Reviewers mention that the sushi is delicious, and some say it’s a great way to start the day. The freshness of the fish combined with the skill you’ve learned makes for a memorable breakfast, quite different from the usual hotel or convenience store fare.

Additional Highlights from Reviews

Participants have praised the friendly instructors and the behind-the-scenes view of Toyosu Market. One reviewer appreciated their tour of the market, highlighting how it enhanced their understanding of the seafood industry. Others enjoyed the intimate group size, which fostered a friendly learning environment, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized feedback.

This workshop is perfect for foodies, travelers eager to learn a new skill, and anyone curious about Japanese culinary traditions. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy hands-on activities and love tasting their own creations. Since ingredients are included and the group is small, it offers good value—especially compared to dining out at sushi restaurants, where you might not get such a personalized experience.

It’s also ideal for people who want a short but meaningful activity in Tokyo, fitting easily into a busy sightseeing schedule. The experience’s educational aspect makes it a good choice for curious travelers who want to understand more about Japan’s seafood industry and sushi craftsmanship.

This Tuna Cutting and Sushi Workshop in Tokyo offers an authentic, engaging, and delicious way to spend a morning. The opportunity to learn from professional sushi chefs, handle a real Japanese knife, and create your own sushi is invaluable for food lovers. The included ingredients, small group size, and behind-the-scenes market tour make it a highly enriching experience.

While it’s priced at around $200, the value lies in the skill acquisition and the memorable breakfast you get to enjoy afterward. It’s more than just a cooking class; it’s an immersion into Japan’s sushi culture, perfect for those who crave authentic culinary experiences.

If you’re visiting Tokyo and want to go beyond sightseeing to learn something practical, this workshop is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for curious travelers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a good story behind their meal.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the workshop is designed to be accessible, even for those with no prior sushi-making experience. The instructors guide you step by step, and the focus is on learning proper technique.

Are ingredients included in the price?
Absolutely. All the necessary ingredients, including fresh tuna and sushi rice, are provided, so you won’t need to bring anything except your enthusiasm.

How long does the workshop last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, from start to finish, making it a perfect quick but immersive activity.

Is there a specific meeting point?
Yes, the meeting point is in Minato City, Tokyo, and is easy to find near public transportation.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 people, which ensures a friendly, personalized environment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience.

Do I need to bring my own tools?
No, all tools and ingredients are provided, including a professional Japanese knife.

Will I be able to eat the sushi I make?
Yes, after preparing your sushi, you’ll get to enjoy it as part of your breakfast, tasting your own handiwork.

In summary, this workshop is a fantastic way to unlock a piece of Japan’s culinary magic. It offers practical skills, insider knowledge, and a delicious meal—all in a friendly, small-group setting. Perfect for those who love hands-on experiences, authentic food adventures, and learning from real professionals.