Make Traditional Japanese Sweets Nerikiri & Table Tea Ceremony

In the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Harajuku district, an immersive workshop awaits those seeking to uncover the art of traditional Japanese confections. Participants will dive into the delicate world of nerikiri sweets, learning the techniques to knead, mold, and decorate these whimsical delicacies. Complementing the sweet experience, a serene table tea ceremony will guide attendees through the proper preparation and savoring of matcha tea. This engaging 1 hour 45 minutes workshop promises to transport guests into the realm of Japanese culinary traditions, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the country’s time-honored craftsmanship.

Key Points

1. Learn the art of making nerikiri, delicate Japanese confections, through a hands-on workshop that teaches kneading, molding, and decorating techniques.
2. Enjoy the serene experience of a traditional tea ceremony, where participants learn the proper steps for preparing and savoring the earthy umami flavors of matcha tea.
3. Relish the opportunity to create whimsical shapes like flowers and animals using vibrant food coloring, resulting in visually stunning nerikiri sweets to take home.
4. Discover the layering of flavors and application of finishing touches under the guidance of an experienced instructor, who focuses on local life and culture.
5. Benefit from flexible booking options, free cancellation, and convenient transportation access, ensuring a hassle-free planning experience for this 1-hour 45-minute activity.

Overview of the Experience

The article provides an overview of a traditional Japanese sweets and tea ceremony experience in Harajuku, Tokyo.

This 1-hour 45-minute activity allows up to 4 travelers to make nerikiri sweets and participate in a tea ceremony. Priced from $60 per person, the experience includes 4 nerikiri sweets and matcha tea.

Led by an experienced instructor, Hana, you will learn to create bean paste and sugar sweets and practice tea ceremony skills.

With a 98% recommendation rate and 4.9 average rating, this cultural experience offers a peaceful, creative environment to explore local life in Tokyo.

Details on the Nerikiri Sweets

Nerikiri are delicate Japanese confections made from a combination of bean paste and sugar. Participants will learn to craft these intricate sweets, putting their artistic skills to the test.

The workshop covers:

1. Kneading the bean paste and sugar to achieve the perfect texture.
2. Molding the paste into miniature, whimsical shapes like flowers and animals.
3. Decorating the nerikiri with vibrant food coloring to create visually stunning designs.
4. Packaging the delicate treats to take home and enjoy.

Mastering the art of nerikiri-making is a gratifying experience, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich culinary heritage.

Learning the Art of Nerikiri Making

Participants dive right into the hands-on process of crafting nerikiri, a captivating culinary art form. Under the guidance of their experienced instructor, Hana, they learn the intricate techniques of shaping the bean paste and sugar into intricate designs. The session is interactive, with ample opportunities to practice and refine their skills.

Nerikiri Making Skills Learned
Kneading the dough	Coloring the paste	Sculpting detailed shapes
Layering flavors	Applying finishing touches	Presenting the final masterpieces

The participants eagerly apply what they’ve learned, excited to recreate these delicate sweets at home and share the beauty of Japanese confectionery.

Performing the Traditional Tea Ceremony

After crafting the intricate nerikiri sweets, participants transition their focus to the serene and meditative tea ceremony.

Under Hana’s expert guidance, they:

1. Learn the proper steps for preparing matcha tea, from whisking the powder to pouring the beverage.
2. Observe the elegant movements and etiquette involved in the traditional tea ritual.
3. Savor the earthy, umami flavors of the matcha while appreciating the beauty of the ceramic teaware.
4. Experience the calming atmosphere and mindfulness encouraged during the tea ceremony.

The tea ceremony provides a peaceful contrast to the hands-on confectionery work, offering a holistic culture.

Exploring the Local Setting in Harajuku

As travelers make their way to the CHUMS Omotesando meeting point in the fashionable Harajuku district, they’re greeted by the vibrant energy and unique style of this Tokyo neighborhood.

Boutiques, cafes, and street fashion are in abundance, showcasing Japan’s cutting-edge design and youth culture.

Navigating the area’s lively streets, they arrive at the intimate studio where the experience takes place.

The cozy, traditional setting provides a serene contrast to the bustling surroundings, allowing participants to fully enjoy the art of Japanese confectionery and tea ceremony.

Participant Testimonials and Feedback

Overwhelmingly, participants have praised the experience, with 98% of reviews recommending it. Guests describe the hosts as warm, friendly, and knowledgeable, providing engaging and easy-to-follow instructions.

The fun, relaxing atmosphere suits all ages, and the variety of nerikiri sweet designs caters to different preferences.

Participants highlight the opportunity to:

1. Learn about Japanese culture and cuisine in a local home setting.
2. Engage in hands-on activities like making sweets and preparing matcha tea.
3. Enjoy a unique, memorable experience.
4. Obtain skills to recreate the experience at home.

Booking and Cancellation Information

Travelers can reserve their spot and secure their participation in the experience while maintaining flexibility, as the booking options allow them to pay later. The cancellation policy is also favorable, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Booking Options	Cancellation Policy
Reserve Now, Pay Later	Free Cancellation
Secure Spot	Up to 24 Hours Before
Flexible Payment	Experience Starts

This allows guests to plan their trip with ease and adjust their plans if needed, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Recommendations and Considerations

The traditional Japanese sweets and tea ceremony experience in Harajuku, Tokyo is an ideal choice for travelers interested in seeing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

This one-of-a-kind activity offers several noteworthy considerations:

1. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for families and groups.
2. The intimate class size of up to 4 participants ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable instructor.
3. Participants can apply the skills learned to recreate the nerikiri sweets and tea ceremony at home.
4. The experience is conveniently located near public transportation, enhancing accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The experience can accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and gluten-free needs. Participants should notify the instructor in advance to ensure their specific requirements are met during the class.

Can I Take Photos During the Experience?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the experience. The hosts welcome guests to capture the process of making nerikiri sweets and the traditional tea ceremony.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point From the Nearest Station?

From the nearest station, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the CHUMS Omotesando meeting point. Just follow the signs for Jingūmae and look for the address 5-2-21 on the building.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The experience has no minimum age requirement, making it suitable for all ages. Children are welcome to participate and engage in the hands-on activities alongside their families.

Can I Purchase Additional Nerikiri Sweets at the End?

Yes, participants can purchase additional nerikiri sweets at the end of the experience if they’d like. The hosts offer the option to buy extra sweets to take home and continue enjoying the traditional Japanese confections.

The Sum Up

This hands-on workshop in Harajuku offers a unique opportunity to take in the intricate art of Japanese confectionery and tea ceremony. Participants can expect to learn the techniques of making traditional nerikiri sweets and master the proper preparation and presentation of matcha tea, all while appreciating the serene cultural ambiance. It’s a captivating experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Japan.