Private Washoku Cooking Class in Yanaka, Tokyo

Step into the enchanting world of Tokyo's traditional culinary arts with a hands-on cooking experience in the historic Yanaka district. Nestled amidst the city's iconic old-world charm, you will be warmly welcomed into Mrs. Yajima's specially designed kitchen studio, where history and tradition meet modern culinary techniques. Mrs. Yajima, a native of the Yanesen area with a rich lineage in Tokyo’s local cuisine, is not just an expert in Japanese cooking. She also brings a global perspective, thanks to her extended stay in London, ensuring that you'll receive instructions that are as clear as they are authentic.

As you navigate through the intricate steps of creating classic Tokyo dishes, Mrs. Yajima will intersperse the session with delightful anecdotes from her life, painting a vivid picture of Tokyo's dynamic culinary and cultural landscape. The experience doesn't just end with the cooking. The ambiance of her traditional home-turned-kitchen studio, complete with a quaint garden that mirrors Tokyo's shifting seasons, offers a sensory feast that's as tantalizing as the dishes you'll prepare.

Once you've had your fill of cooking and tasting, the vibrant streets of Yanaka Ginza beckon. Just a brief walk away, it promises an extension of your cultural immersion, letting you experience the everyday hustle and bustle of Tokyo's locals. This is more than just a cooking class; it's a deep dive into Tokyo's soul, offering both a learning experience and a cherished memory. So, if you're looking for an authentic and comprehensive Tokyo culinary adventure, look no further. Secure your spot with Mrs. Yajima today and savor a taste of Tokyo that few get to experience.

Highlights

• Learn classic Japanese home cooking

• Craft a diverse Bento box

• Shop for fresh ingredients with Madam Yajima

• Hands-on experience with traditional recipes

• Discover tricks for preparing fish and Grilled Teriyaki

• Enjoy your self-made dishes in a relaxed setting

• Spend time in the heart of Yanaka's culinary scene

Included

• Instructor-led cooking lesson

• All basic ingredients

• Meal tasting

Not Included

• Special ingredient requests (costs shared if needed)

• Take-home containers

• Transportation to and from the location

Select Your Meal!

We have a variety of dishes you can choose from. You can pick one dish or mix and match two of your favorites. And if there's something special you'd like that's not on our list, just tell us:

• SUSHI: Made the way it's done in Japanese homes.

• BENTO: A lunch box filled with tasty Karaage (fried chicken) and a Rolled Omelet.

• Main Dishes:

• Choose either a fish or chicken fillet, which comes with a side of rice and a bowl of miso soup.

• OKONOMIYAKI: A kind of Japanese pancake with your choice of seafood or meat, plus some vegetables.

• GYOZA: These are the traditional Japanese dumplings that many people love.

• TON-KATSU: A crispy pork cutlet popular in Japan.

• Customized Fish Dish: Tell us how you'd like your fish cooked.

• UDON: Thick noodles that we make fresh from the start.

Special Menu Requests? No Problem!

When making your reservation, simply mention your specific desires. Whether it's catering to allergies, vegetarian or vegan preferences, or any other request, we're here to accommodate.

A little heads-up: If you ask for something that's a bit rare or more costly than usual ingredients, we might have to charge a bit extra. But don't worry, we'll let you know if that's the case before we start cooking. Ready to enjoy a taste of Japan? Book your meal with us now!

Tour Itinerary

Meet & Greet 

• Begin your adventure with a warm welcome from Madam Yajima, our culinary expert. She's here to guide you through the world of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Market Exploration 

• Embark on a unique shopping trip to local stores, where you'll pick out the freshest ingredients. It's not just shopping; it's a chance to soak up the local atmosphere and gather what you need for your culinary masterpiece.

Hands-On Cooking

• Back in our cozy cooking space, it's time to roll up your sleeves and learn from the best. Madam Yajima will skillfully instruct you, drawing from her vast experience. Get ready to uncover new cooking ideas and techniques.

Beyond the Basics

• Dive into advanced cooking skills. Learn how to prepare fish dishes (including filleting them), craft mouthwatering grilled Teriyaki, and master the art of Okonomi-yaki.

Let's Savor Together

• The best part? You won't just be cooking; you'll get to enjoy your creations in Yanaka's intimate home setting. Experience Tokyo's local cuisine in a personal and authentic way, right where it all started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'YANAKA Home Cooking Experience'?

Ans: The 'YANAKA Home Cooking Experience' is a delightful journey into the heart of Tokyo's Yanaka district. It's a hands-on cooking adventure where you'll learn to craft authentic Japanese dishes in a cozy home setting. It's more than just a cooking class; it's a culinary immersion in the local culture and flavors.

Q: Who will be teaching the cooking class?

Ans: Your culinary journey will be guided by the talented Madam Yajima, our expert instructor. With her deep knowledge and passion for traditional Japanese cuisine, she'll lead you through the intricacies of creating delicious dishes.

Q: Can I request a special menu or dietary accommodations?

Ans: Absolutely! We want to ensure your experience is tailored to your tastes. You can request a special menu, whether you have dietary preferences or specific dishes in mind. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Just let us know your preferences when making your reservation.

Q: Are there additional fees for special menu requests?

Ans: While many special requests can be accommodated without additional charges, some may require extra ingredients or unique preparation methods. In such cases, we will provide you with an estimate for any additional fees, ensuring complete transparency.

Q: What do I need to bring to the cooking workshop?

Ans: To fully enjoy your cooking workshop, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing. Don't forget to bring socks for your comfort during the session. We want you to feel relaxed and at home while cooking up a storm.

Q: Where is the meeting point for the tour?

Ans: We kick off this culinary adventure at the Yanesen Tourist Information Center, conveniently located at Yanaka 3-10-21, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan. It's your starting point for an unforgettable experience.

Related Read: The Rich and Diverse Food Culture of Japan