Onigiri, Japan's "Soul Food."
Onigiri is a traditional Japanese dish made by hand-shaping steamed rice into triangular or round shapes, often with a filling inside and wrapped in nori (seaweed). It’s a portable, easy-to-eat snack, perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or just a quick bite.
Onigiri is a Japanese comfort food made from steamed rice formed into the typical triangular, ball, or cylinder shapes and usually wrapped with nori(dried seaweed). Stuffed with a a variety of fillings and flavors, these rice balls make an ideal quick snack and are a fun alternative to sandwitches for lunch.
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.
Welcome to our Onigiri Making Class, where you'll dive into the heart of Japanese home cooking! Onigiri are much more than just rice balls; they are a staple of Japanese cuisine, a beloved comfort food, and a symbol of care and warmth.
Think of onigiri as the Japanese equivalent of a sandwich – portable, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from a quick lunch to a picnic in the park. Unlike sushi, which often uses vinegared rice and specific slicing techniques, onigiri are typically made with plain or lightly seasoned rice, shaped by hand, and filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. They are commonly wrapped in nori seaweed, making them easy to hold and eat. Mothers and grandmothers often make onigiri for their children and grandchildren, infusing each one with love, making them a true "soul food" in Japan.
1. Introduction to Onigiri (10 min)
The history and cultural significance of onigiri
Onigiri as "Soul Food" vs. sushi, which is typically made by professionals
Different regional varieties and types of onigiri
2. Preparing the Rice (15 min)
How to cook and handle rice for perfect onigiri
Why the texture and moisture of rice is so important
Hands-on: Feel the rice and learn the perfect consistency for onigiri
3. Making Onigiri (30 min)
Learn how to shape traditional triangular onigiri by hand
Try classic fillings: pickled plum (umeboshi), grilled salmon, tuna mayo
How to wrap with nori and perfect your onigiri
4. Creative Onigiri (Optional Fun Activity)
Try making cute or character onigiri (kyaraben)
Use sesame seeds, vegetables, or seaweed cutouts to decorate your onigiri
5. Tasting & Sharing Time (15 min)
Enjoy your handmade onigiri with traditional Japanese tea
Savor the taste of this homemade dish that carries family love
Group photo and Q&A session
We are a couple who love to eat and drink.
We are waiting for you with a selection of delicious Japanese sake.
Create fun, exciting and unique memories with us‼︎
The closest station
Yamate
How to get to the station?
From Yokohama: 10mins
Free pick up service
This host can pick up you for free from the closest station!
Exact location provided after booking.
Up to 4 people can join Mariko's cooking class.
Yes, Onigiri Making Class – Experience Japan’s Soul Food, A Simple Dish Full of Love! has a vegetarian option.
Yes, Onigiri Making Class – Experience Japan’s Soul Food, A Simple Dish Full of Love! has a vegan option.
It costs 6000 per person.
Duration of this cooking class is 1 hours.
Please go to Yamate which takes 10 mins from Yokohama. Then Mariko (host) will pick you up there!
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.
