Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen: Hands-On Tempura & Riceboll Cooking

Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen offers a unique cooking experience that allows visitors to enjoy the art of tempura and rice ball preparation. Led by an English-speaking instructor, the hands-on class takes place in a private setting, catering to various dietary preferences. With a reasonable starting price and flexible cancellation policy, it’s an excellent opportunity for foodies to explore authentic Japanese cuisine. But what makes this class truly special is the welcoming atmosphere and the chance to craft these delectable dishes with your own hands.

Key Points

• Offers hands-on cooking experience focused on tempura and rice ball preparation in a private setting with an English-speaking instructor.
• Includes bottled water, aprons, towels, and accommodates vegetarian and vegan options.
• Participants meet at Matsuo-Taisha Station in Arashiyama Miyanomaecho, Kyoto, and the activity concludes at the original meeting point.
• Cooking experience starts from $33.59 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.
• The class may not be suitable for individuals with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, and participants with food allergies must inform the host in advance.

Overview and Experience

Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen offers a hands-on cooking experience focused on tempura and rice ball preparation.

Participants can enjoy traditional Japanese home cooking, including a Tempura Course featuring tempura, omusubi, and miso soup.

The workshop takes place in a private setting, ensuring an intimate experience for each group.

Participants can learn the art of making tempura and rice balls from an English-speaking instructor.

The hands-on nature of the class allows guests to enjoy the process, creating a memorable culinary journey through the flavors and techniques of authentic Japanese cuisine.

Class Details and Inclusions

The class includes bottled water, with free access to water and tea.

Aprons and towels are provided at no extra cost, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

An English-speaking instructor is available to guide participants through the cooking process.

Alcoholic beverages and soda/pop are offered, catering to various preferences.

The workshop also accommodates vegetarian and vegan options, making it accessible to diverse dietary needs.

• Aprons and towels provided at no extra cost
• English-speaking instructor available
• Alcoholic beverages and soda/pop offered
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Meeting and End Points

Participants meet at Matsuo-Taisha Station in Arashiyama Miyanomaecho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, before embarking on the cooking experience.

From there, the class takes place in a private setting, ensuring an intimate experience for the group.

Once the cooking workshop concludes, the activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Detailed directions are provided via Google Maps to help participants find the starting location with ease.

Booking Information

The Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen cooking experience starts from $33.59 per person. The price is reasonable, considering the hands-on workshop and the inclusions:

• Bottled water, with free access to water and tea
• Aprons and towels provided at no extra cost
• English-speaking instructor
• Alcoholic beverages and soda/pop offered

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the private tour ensures only your group participates.

Health and Accessibility Notes

Although the Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen experience may not be suitable for everyone, the host makes efforts to accommodate various needs.

The class isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. Participants with food allergies must inform the host in advance.

The setting may not be ideal for people with animal allergies, as pets are present.

The class has received positive reviews, with a 4.3 rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews.

It’s important for potential participants to consider their individual needs and limitations before booking.

Preparing for the Cooking Class

To make the most of the Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen cooking class, guests should arrive at the designated meeting point, Matsuo-Taisha Station, a few minutes early.

This allows time to find the location and check-in before the class begins.

During the hands-on experience, you will:

• Learn traditional Japanese home cooking techniques like tempura and rice ball preparation
• Enjoy a Tempura Course with tempura, omusubi, and miso soup
• Have access to bottled water, tea, and alcoholic beverages
• Receive aprons and towels to stay clean and comfortable throughout the class

Tempura and Riceboll Making Process

During the Tempura and Riceboll Making Process, participants learn how to prepare these traditional Japanese dishes. The instructor demonstrates the proper techniques for tempura batter mixing and frying.

Guests then have the chance to deep-fry their own tempura vegetables. Next, they assemble onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, using their hands to shape the rice and fill them with various ingredients.

Participants finish by plating their creations and enjoying the freshly prepared tempura and riceboll alongside miso soup. The hands-on experience allows guests to gain newfound appreciation for the art of traditional Japanese home cooking.

Enjoying the Finished Dishes

After completing the tempura and onigiri preparation, participants can savor the fruits of their culinary labor.

They’ll delight in the crisp, golden tempura and the perfectly formed rice balls. The freshly prepared miso soup complements the meal, while the aromatic green tea provides a soothing finish.

• Savor the crisp tempura and fluffy onigiri
• Enjoy the comforting miso soup and aromatic green tea
• Appreciate the authentic flavors of traditional Japanese home cooking
• Relish the intimate, private setting for a truly immersive experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take the Class Independently or Must I Be Part of a Group?

You can take the class independently or as part of a group. The experience is private, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more intimate setting.

Is There a Dress Code or Specific Attire Required for the Class?

There’s no formal dress code, but participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing they don’t mind getting a bit messy. Aprons are provided to protect participants’ outfits during the hands-on cooking activities.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Cooking Class?

The cooking class is a private tour, so the maximum group size is flexible. The website indicates it’s only your group that participates, allowing for an intimate experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements for Participants?

The cooking class doesn’t have any age restrictions or minimum age requirements. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, as long as they can comfortably participate in the hands-on activities.

Can I Purchase Any of the Ingredients or Dishes to Take Home?

Participants can’t purchase any of the ingredients or dishes to take home. The workshop is focused on the hands-on cooking experience, and all prepared items are consumed during the class.

The Sum Up

The Arashiyama Veggie Kitchen offers a unique chance to take in the art of Japanese cuisine. With a hands-on tempura and rice ball cooking class, led by an English-speaking instructor, participants can craft authentic dishes while accommodating various dietary needs. The reasonable price and flexible cancellation policy make it an excellent opportunity for foodies to explore the flavors of Japan.