Indulging in the intricate art of traditional Japanese sweets, the Tokyo Mt. Fuji Wagashi Tour offers a captivating culture. Participants embark on a journey through the history and techniques of Nerikiri confections, expertly guided by an English-speaking instructor. Set against the serene backdrop of the Ikegami Baien garden, this experience blends creativity and tranquility, inviting visitors to savor the flavors and appreciate the craftsmanship. While the tour’s delights are undeniable, the true allure lies in the opportunity to uncover the deeper significance behind these delicate delicacies.
Key Points
- This Tokyo Mt. Fuji Wagashi Tour offers an immersive experience in making traditional Japanese sweets, participating in a tea ceremony, and strolling through a serene Japanese garden.
- The tour is priced at £2,328 per person and lasts for 2 hours, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Participants will learn to make Nerikiri sweets, shaped like Mt. Fuji, and engage in mindfulness exercises during the tea ceremony and garden stroll.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired, or those over 95, and requires a certain level of mobility and dexterity.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking instructor who provides detailed explanations and insights on the history, ingredients, and mindfulness aspects of the activities.
Tour Overview and Pricing
What does the Mt. Fuji Wagashi & tea trial tour in Ikegami Baien near Haneda airport offer?
The tour is priced from £2,328 per person and lasts for 2 hours. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s a reserve now & pay later option available.
The experience highlights include making traditional Japanese sweets called Nerikiri, participating in a tea ceremony, and strolling through a lesser-known Japanese garden.
The tour includes making two Nerikiri sweets, the tea ceremony, tasting the sweets and matcha, an English recipe and instructional video, and the garden and tea room fees.
Experience Highlights
During the Mt. Fuji Wagashi & tea trial tour, participants can look forward to an immersive cultural experience.
First, they’ll learn to make traditional Japanese sweets called Nerikiri, shaping the dough to resemble the iconic Mt. Fuji.
Next, they’ll take part in an authentic tea ceremony within a serene Japanese tea room. This mindfulness exercise allows visitors to engage their senses and find inner calm.
Throughout the tour, a friendly English-speaking instructor provides detailed explanations, ensuring participants gain a deeper appreciation for these time-honored Japanese traditions.
Plus, the tour offers an opportunity to stroll through a lesser-known, but equally stunning, Japanese garden at Ikegami Baien.
Included Features
The Mt. Fuji Wagashi tour offers a delightful array of included features to enhance the experience. Participants can expect to make two traditional Nerikiri sweets, representing the iconic Mt. Fuji.
They’ll also partake in an authentic tea ceremony, savoring the fragrant matcha and handcrafted confections. An English recipe and instructional video provide take-home guidance for recreating the Nerikiri at home.
Plus, the tour includes:
- Garden entrance fee and tea room usage
- Apron and hand towel for a comfortable experience
- Transportation costs to the scenic Ikegami Baien site
These thoughtful inclusions ensure a well-rounded and memorable journey into the captivating world of Japanese cultural traditions.
Important Information and Restrictions
Participants should plan to meet the tour group in front of the LAWSON convenience store, just a minute’s walk from the South gate of Nishimagome station.
It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or people over 95 years old.
Guests are encouraged to bring a camera and wear comfortable clothes, but pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
Participants who arrive late may be responsible for entrance fees, and joining the tour after it has already departed will be treated as a same-day cancellation, resulting in a 100% charge.
The experience emphasizes mindfulness and self-care throughout the activities.
Cancellation Policy and Tips
What’re the key points regarding the cancellation policy and tips for this Mt. Fuji Wagashi tour?
Participants should be aware that joining after the tour departs is treated as a same-day cancellation, resulting in a 100% charge. Plus, individuals may be responsible for entrance fees if they arrive late.
The tour emphasizes mindfulness and self-care throughout the experience, so guests are encouraged to:
- Arrive on time to avoid additional fees
- Pack light and wear comfortable clothes
- Approach the activities with a relaxed, present mindset
- Reach out to the organizers with any questions or concerns prior to the event.
Location and Meeting Point
This Mt. Fuji Wagashi & tea trial tour takes place at the Ikegami Baien, a lesser-known Japanese garden located near Haneda airport.
The meeting point is in front of the LAWSON convenience store, just 1 minute from the South gate of Nishimagome station. This convenient location makes it easy for participants to find the starting point and access the tour.
The garden entrance fee and tea room usage fee are included in the tour price, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the experience without additional costs.
Whether arriving by public transportation or driving, the Ikegami Baien provides a serene and picturesque setting for this unique cultural exploration.
Instructor and Language
A friendly and knowledgeable English-speaking instructor leads this Mt. Fuji Wagashi and tea tour. They provide detailed explanations throughout the experience, ensuring participants fully understand the traditional Japanese techniques and cultural significance.
The instructor’s expertise shines through as they guide the group step-by-step through:
- Making the intricate Nerikiri sweets, modeling them after the iconic Mt. Fuji
- Performing the proper etiquette and movements during the authentic tea ceremony
- Sharing insights into the history, ingredients, and mindfulness aspects of the activities
With their patient and engaging teaching style, the instructor creates an immersive cultural learning environment that enhances the overall tour experience.
Suitability and Accessibility
The Mt. Fuji Wagashi tour isn’t suitable for all visitors.
Children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, and people over 95 years old aren’t allowed to participate. The tour requires a certain level of mobility and dexterity to make the traditional Japanese sweets.
Participants must be able to navigate the Japanese garden and tea room without assistance. The tour operator emphasizes mindfulness and self-care throughout the experience, making it less ideal for those seeking a more active or fast-paced activity.
However, the friendly English-speaking instructor provides detailed explanations, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for the suitable audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies Accommodated?
The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and food allergies. Participants should note any special requirements when booking, and the friendly staff will work to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the wagashi and tea experience.
Can I Take My Tour Experience Souvenirs Home?
Participants can take home their handmade Nerikiri sweets representing Mt. Fuji, along with the English recipe and instructional video provided. They’ll also receive the tea they sampled during the ceremony.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?
Photography is allowed during the tea ceremony, but participants are encouraged to be mindful and respectful of the ceremony. Discreet photography is fine, but the focus should be on the experience itself.
Do I Need to Have Prior Experience With Japanese Sweets?
No prior experience with Japanese sweets is required. The tour provides detailed guidance from an instructor to help participants create traditional Nerikiri sweets, making it suitable for beginners interested in learning about this unique culinary art.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it emphasizes a personalized experience, so the group size is likely small to allow for individual attention from the friendly English-speaking instructor.
Recap
The Tokyo Mt. Fuji Wagashi Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the art of traditional Japanese sweets and tea ceremony. With an experienced English-speaking instructor, participants can learn the history and techniques behind Nerikiri craftsmanship while enjoying the serene surroundings of the Ikegami Baien garden. This tour provides a delightful blend of creativity, culture, and tranquility, making it a must-try experience for those interested in appreciating Japanese craftsmanship.
