・Wagashi (Nerikiri)
In this experience, you will learn how to make nerikiri, a traditional Japanese sweet made from white bean paste and rice flour. Nerikiri is known for its delicate and artistic shapes, often inspired by seasonal flowers or nature. We will guide you through each step of the process, from shaping the dough to adding fine details using specialized tools like the triangular stick. This is a hands-on experience where you can create your own unique designs and enjoy the beauty of Japanese confectionery.
・Matcha Experience
After making nerikiri, you will participate in a matcha tea ceremony. Using a chasen (bamboo whisk), you’ll whisk powdered matcha into a frothy tea, learning the traditional method of preparation. Matcha has a rich flavor, and when paired with the sweetness of nerikiri, it creates a perfect balance. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the cultural significance of matcha in Japan and enjoy the tea in a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere.
This combined experience allows you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture through both taste and tradition!
Rice is a staple food in Japan. In all most every family, there is a rice cooker. There is variety of Japanese rice brands such as Koshihikari and Hitomebore.
The Japanese tea ceremony is a centuries-old tradition closely tied to Zen Buddhist principles, and a popular way to experience Japanese culture. There are several variations on this ritual. At its base, powdered green tea (matcha) is prepared and served in accordance with strict rules. Oftentimes, wagashi (Japanese sweets) is served alongside the bitter green tea.
Nerikiri-Making Steps
First, I will explain what nerikiri is, how to make it, and the tools we will be using.
Next, we will color the nerikiri dough using food coloring. You can choose your favorite color.
Once the dough is colored, you will use tools and your hands to shape the dough into beautiful flowers, leaves, or other nature-inspired designs.
This time, we will make two types of nerikiri: sakura (cherry blossom) and kiku (chrysanthemum). Both are flowers that represent Japan. We’ll make two sakura and one kiku, for a total of three pieces.
Matcha Experience Steps
After finishing the wagashi-making, we will move on to the matcha experience.
You will choose your favorite matcha bowl and use a special tool called a chasen (bamboo whisk) to whisk the matcha.
Finally, let's enjoy the beautiful wagashi you made with delicious matcha!
Hello, everyone! My name is Kana, and I grew up in Osaka and Kyoto. From a young age, I’ve always loved visiting Japan’s beautiful shrines and temples, and of course, enjoying traditional Japanese sweets and matcha. At home, my family often made matcha and created homemade wagashi, which sparked my love for these traditions.
I’ve also studied sado, or the Japanese tea ceremony, and I’m excited to share Japan’s rich cultural heritage with you through this experience. The lesson takes place in Kawagoe, Saitama, just next to Tokyo. Kawagoe is a charming town with streets that look like they’ve come straight out of the Edo period, full of historical buildings and hidden gems not yet widely known to international visitors.
Our lesson venue itself is a precious piece of Kawagoe’s history, designated as a tangible cultural property. It’s a wonderful spot for photos, so I hope you’ll join us and capture some memories while immersing yourself in the beauty of Japanese culture.
The closest station
Honkawagoe Station, Kawagoe Station
How to get to the station?
From Ikebukuro Station: 45mins
Exact location provided after booking.
It costs 4000 per person.
Up to 3 people can join Kana's cooking class.
Yes, Wagashi (Nerikiri) and Matcha Experience: A Cultural Journey in a Historical Building in Kawagoe. has a vegetarian option.
Yes, Wagashi (Nerikiri) and Matcha Experience: A Cultural Journey in a Historical Building in Kawagoe. has a vegan option.
Duration of this cooking class is 2 hours.
You will receive the confirmation within 24 hours.
We accepts these cards on airKitchen.
Cancellations up to 48 hours prior to the class begins will be fully refunded by the airKitchen cancellation policy.
 and Matcha Experience: A Cultural Journey in a Historical Building in Kawagoe. | Cooking Class in Saitama/Japan){kind=link}