Emika’s private sushi cooking class and tea ceremony in Kyoto provides a unique opportunity to take in the art of traditional Japanese cuisine. With a perfect recommendation rate, this intimate experience focuses on preparing classic dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect Emika’s warm hospitality and personalized teaching style, blending culinary skills with cultural insights. Whether you’re a sushi enthusiast or seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese food and its traditions, this class promises an unforgettable journey.
Key Points

- Intimate, hands-on private sushi cooking class and tea ceremony in Kyoto, led by experienced instructor Emika.
- Traditional Japanese cuisine and culture focus, including dishes like miso soup, nigiri-sushi, okonomiyaki, and gyoza.
- Flexible scheduling for lunch or dinner, with optional market tours before the class.
- Consistently high guest ratings (100% recommendation rate) for Emika’s friendly demeanor and effective teaching style.
- Use of fresh, seasonal ingredients from Emika’s community garden for an immersive, farm-to-table experience.
Overview of the Experience

This private sushi cooking class and tea ceremony in Kyoto with Emika offers a unique opportunity for travelers to cook and dine with a local in her Kyoto home.
With 56 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the experience promises an intimate and authentic exploration of traditional Japanese cuisine and culture.
Guests will learn to prepare a menu of classic dishes like miso soup, nigiri-sushi, okonomiyaki, and gyoza, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
The option for alcoholic drinks or matcha tea further enhances the culture, providing a well-rounded culinary adventure in the heart of Kyoto.
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Cooking Class Details

The menu for the private sushi cooking class includes an array of traditional Japanese dishes. Guests will learn to prepare miso soup, nigiri-sushi, okonomiyaki, and gyoza.
The class also covers the preparation of these local, seasonal ingredients. Participants have the option to pair their homemade meal with alcoholic drinks or matcha.
The class is offered as either a lunch or dinner experience, making it flexible to fit into any schedule. An additional option allows guests to tour a supermarket and produce market before the cooking session.
Meeting and Pickup Information

The private sushi cooking class meeting point is located at 31-30 Katsurainariyamachō, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. It’s a 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from Katsura station. The class is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible. Guests should inform Emika of any dietary restrictions or preferences at the time of booking.
| Meeting Point | 31-30 Katsurainariyamachō, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan |
|---|---|
| Distance | 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from Katsura station |
| Accessibility | Stroller accessible, not wheelchair accessible |
| Booking | Inform Emika of dietary needs |
| Confirmation | Received at booking |
Guests’ Reviews and Feedback
Consistently high ratings (5 stars) across various reviews highlight the overwhelmingly positive feedback guests have provided for Emika’s private sushi cooking class.
Guests praised Emika’s friendly demeanor, effective teaching style, and deep local knowledge. Many highlighted the intimate, authentic experience and the cultural insights gained.
Ingredients are often sourced from Emika’s community garden, adding to the immersive, farm-to-table experience.
Emika’s Approach and Hospitality

As a seasoned culinary instructor, Emika takes great pride in delivering an exceptional and personalized sushi cooking experience. Her approachable teaching style and genuine enthusiasm for sharing Japanese cuisine create an intimate and immersive atmosphere.
Emika thoughtfully tailors each class to her guests’ interests, ensuring they gain valuable insights into traditional Obanzai cooking techniques and the local food culture. By sourcing ingredients from her own community garden, she provides a truly authentic experience.
Emika’s warm hospitality and commitment to fostering meaningful connections leave a lasting impression on all who’ve the pleasure of learning from her.
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Experiencing Traditional Japanese Cuisine

Emika’s sushi cooking class in Kyoto offers guests an immersive journey through traditional Japanese cuisine. Participants learn to prepare an authentic menu, including miso soup, nigiri-sushi, okonomiyaki, and gyoza.
Emika sources fresh, seasonal ingredients, many from her own community garden, ensuring the highest quality. The class provides an opportunity to enjoy a homemade, multi-course meal, with the option to pair dishes with alcoholic drinks or matcha tea.
Guests praise the intimate, hands-on experience and the cultural insights gained from cooking alongside a local. Whether visiting for lunch or dinner, this class delivers an authentic taste of Kyoto‘s culinary traditions.
Exploring Kyoto’s Local Food Culture

Kyoto’s local food culture reflects the city’s deep-rooted traditions and appreciation for seasonal ingredients.
From the artful presentation of sushi to the harmonious flavors of Obanzai cuisine, Kyoto’s culinary offerings showcase the region’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
By participating in a private cooking class, travelers can enjoy this vibrant food scene, learning traditional techniques and savoring the fruits of their labor.
With options like a market tour and sake pairings, the class provides a truly immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with a local host and uncover the unique character of Kyoto’s gastronomic heritage.
What to Expect From the Private Class
Participants can expect an intimate, hands-on experience in Emika’s cozy Kyoto home. The cooking class covers a range of traditional Japanese dishes, including miso soup, nigiri-sushi, okonomiyaki, and gyoza.
Emika guides guests through each step, sharing her expertise and local culinary knowledge. Participants have the option to pair the homemade meal with alcoholic drinks or refreshing matcha.
The class also includes a market tour, where guests can observe and learn about local, seasonal ingredients. Throughout the experience, Emika’s friendly demeanor and passion for sharing her culture create an authentic and memorable encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Attend the Class Alone or Must I Bring a Group?
The class can be attended alone, as it’s a private tour where only your group participates. You don’t need to bring a group – you can sign up and attend the class by yourself.
Is the Class Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The class is suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. Emika can accommodate different dietary needs if informed at the time of booking. She sources ingredients from her community garden and is happy to adjust the menu accordingly.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Cooking and Tea Ceremony?
The cooking class and tea ceremony typically last around 2-3 hours. Guests can choose between a lunch or dinner session, allowing the experience to fit easily into their schedule. Emika is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions when booked.
Can I Take the Leftover Food From the Class Home With Me?
No, participants cannot take leftover food home from the cooking class. The class is designed as a hands-on experience where guests cook and enjoy the meal together during the session. Any remaining food is typically not available to be taken away.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Class?
There are no age restrictions for Emika’s sushi cooking class. Children are welcome to participate, though parental supervision may be required for younger kids. The class is suitable for all skill levels and ages.
The Sum Up
This private sushi cooking class and tea ceremony with Emika in Kyoto offers an intimate, immersive culinary experience. Guests learn to prepare traditional Japanese dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, while also gaining insights into the country’s rich food culture. With Emika’s warm hospitality and personalized teaching style, this class provides a unique opportunity to authentically engage with the art of Japanese cuisine.
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