Discover a world of peace and flavor in a cozy, private sushi studio tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Ashiya. Located just 15–30 minutes by train from Osaka or Kobe, and about 1 hour from Kyoto, this studio is easy to reach yet sheltered from the city’s bustle.
Guests arrive on their own, either by a short 20-minute walk from Hankyu Shukugawa or JR Ashiya, or via a quick taxi ride costing around 1,000 yen. While we don’t provide a pick-up service, this allows the chef to focus entirely on preparing your authentic sushi experience.
Inspired by the philosophy of “A Piece of Sushi A Peace,” this class invites you to connect with Japanese culture, one delicious piece at a time.
Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers, you’ll learn directly from a master chef with over 40 years of experience.
In this intimate setting, you’ll create your own nigiri sushi using the freshest, seasonal fish, enjoying a fully private experience with no others and a maximum of 6 guests.
Sushi (寿司, 鮨) is a Japanese dish of specially prepared vinegared rice (鮨飯 sushi-meshi), usually with some sugar and salt, combined with a variety of ingredients (ネタ neta), such as seafood (most commonly and often raw), vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits. Styles of sushi and its presentation vary widely, but the key ingredient is "sushi rice", also referred to as shari (しゃり), or sumeshi (酢飯).
Begin your hands-on sushi journey as the chef demonstrates the art of preparing sushi rice, a technique rarely shown in restaurants. Watch every detail and learn the secrets behind perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice.
Under the guidance of a master sushi chef with over 40 years of experience, learn to shape your own nigiri using fresh, top-grade fish and seasonal ingredients.
Enjoy a fully private, small-group experience (up to 6 guests), allowing you to ask questions, practice techniques, and receive personal tips directly from the chef.
Once your sushi creations are complete, sit down and savor your own handmade nigiri alongside handmade gari (pickled ginger), appreciating the flavors and craftsmanship you just learned.
Throughout the experience, the chef shares stories from decades of sushi-making, his journey from Kyoto to Chicago, and the philosophy behind A Piece of Sushi A Peace — connecting food, culture, and mindfulness.
Duration: Approximately 3 hours, a perfect combination of learning, creating, and enjoying authentic sushi.
Your kitchen today, take place in room #B-12, located in a cozy and private space.
Please enter through the back entrance near the bike parking, which faces the park (entrance 17-18).
You’ll find a small staircase there – once you reach the top, turn right, and your sushi kitchen will be right on the left.
That’s where your sushi adventure begins today!
We look forward to welcoming you, so please arrive safely and take care on your way!
The nearest stations are Hankyu Shukugawa and JR Ashiya, both about a 20 to 30-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will cost around 1000 yen, give or take a bit. We’re sorry, but we don’t offer a pick-up service as the chef needs to stay focused on preparing the sushi. We appreciate your understanding. Once you arrive, get ready to watch the sushi chef prepare sushi rice right before your eyes. This technique is often kept behind the scenes in most sushi restaurants, so don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to see it in action!
To begin, you’ll practice shaping sushi using a handmade rice model. Once you’ve got the hang of it, we’ll move on to the basic steps of making nigiri sushi. This usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes.
Ready to put your skills to work? After the sushi rice is prepared, you’ll get to make your own nigiri sushi. Start by shaping the rice, then try making gunkan-maki (battleship sushi) wrapped with seaweed.
While you’re making your nigiri, the sushi chef will prepare a selection of fresh fish and vegetables, carefully slicing them to perfection for your toppings.
ake your first bite of your very own handmade sushi — it might just bring a tear to your eye! Who knew sushi could taste this incredible, especially when you’ve crafted it yourself?
Now, it’s time to plate up what you’ve created. Plating can be tricky, but don’t worry — the chef will guide you every step of the way. Once everything’s looking delicious, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your sushi feast! Oh, and don't forget to snap a few pics before you start eating. You'll be able to proudly say, 'I made this myself!' when you share it with friends and family.
After enjoying all the sushi you made, it’s time to take a commemorative photo with your host, the sushi chef. Capture this unforgettable moment and make your Japan trip even more special!
Hi, I’m Keitaro!
I’m a former sushi chef with experience both in Japan and the US, and now I’m here to share the real Japanese sushi experience with people from all over the world.
My kitchen is just a quick 20-minute train ride from Osaka’s Umeda Station. It’s clean, cozy, and the perfect spot to roll up your sleeves and make sushi in a safe, fun setting.
I love experimenting with ingredients, pairing sushi with local sake, and swapping travel stories. But here’s the serious part—sushi isn’t just food. It’s tradition, technique, and a way to connect people. That’s the part I want you to experience most.
Beginners? Totally welcome. I’ll guide you step by step, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can make beautiful nigiri.
So come hungry, bring your curiosity, and let’s create some delicious sushi and unforgettable memories together!
And hey, just so you know—I’m officially licensed too:
I hold a National Chef License (Japan’s official government certification for chefs),
Fugu Handling Registration Certificate,
Japan Sommelier Association–certified Wine Sommelier,
and I also hold certifications in Japanese whisky.
Nothing you need to worry about, but it’s nice to know your sushi is in safe hands!
Thank you all!
The closest station
Hankyu Shukugawa Station
How to get to the station?
From JR Ashiya Station: 15mins
Exact location provided after booking.
Yes, A Piece of Sushi A Peace — Make Your Own Sushi and Discover Japan’s Heart in an Exclusive Private Experience has a vegan option.
Up to 6 people can join Keitaro's cooking class.
It costs 19500 per person.
Yes, A Piece of Sushi A Peace — Make Your Own Sushi and Discover Japan’s Heart in an Exclusive Private Experience has a vegetarian option.
Duration of this cooking class is 3 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.
