●Japanese Pan-Fried Dumplings (Gyoza)
Gyoza is one of Japan’s most popular everyday dishes. Japanese-style gyoza is different from Chinese dumplings — the wrappers are thinner, and they are pan-fried to create a crispy bottom while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
In this class, we prepare the filling with ground meat, cabbage, and garlic chives. The vegetables add natural sweetness and make the gyoza light yet satisfying. We cook them until golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside. Several dipping sauces will be prepared so you can find your favorite flavor.
A vegetarian gyoza option is available upon request. Please let me know in advance if you prefer a meat-free filling.
●Handmade Rice Balls (Onigiri)
You will also make onigiri, traditional Japanese rice balls shaped by hand. Onigiri is a simple but very special part of Japanese home cooking. You can choose your favorite fillings and wrap them in seaweed.
Together, these dishes represent a classic Japanese family meal.
Gyoza is a dumpling using wrapping thing dough to hold the inner ingredients. Most commonly, minced pork, cabbage, Garlic and Leek. The origin of Gyoza is from China but it has evolved uniquely in Japan and now quite different from the Chinese one.
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.
Experience the Warmth of a Japanese Family Table
In my home, making gyoza is a joyful family tradition. We gather around the table, talk, laugh, and make many gyoza together. I would love to share this warm and fun experience with you.
During this cooking experience, you will:
1.Mix ground meat and fresh vegetables together to make the gyoza filling.
2.Wrap the filling in gyoza wrappers. First, I will show you how to make the classic crescent shape. If you like, you can also try making your own fun and creative shapes.
3.Shape warm rice into onigiri with your hands and add your favorite fillings.
4.Cook the gyoza in a pan until the bottom becomes crispy and golden.
5.Finally, we will enjoy eating the gyoza and onigiri together at the table.
This is a small and relaxed cooking experience in a real Japanese home. Let’s enjoy cooking, sharing smiles, and spending a warm time together.
Yuko
Hi, I’m Yuko!
I love cooking for my family and meeting people from around the world. Traveling and learning about different cultures is one of my greatest joys, so I am always excited to welcome guests from overseas.
I work as a school lunch cook at an elementary school, where I prepare meals for children every day. At home, I also cook for my family. For me, cooking is not just about food — it is about caring for people, sharing time together, and creating warm memories around the table.
My home is located in Odawara, a beautiful city close to Hakone. I offer free pick-up from Kamonomiya Station, the nearest station to my home, so you can come comfortably and without worry.
Just a 3-minute walk from my house, there is a shopping mall with a supermarket, a 100-yen shop, UNIQLO, GU, and more. If you would like, I would be happy to show you around before or after the cooking class (outside of class time). It’s a great way to experience everyday local life in Japan.
If there is anything you would like to know, see, or try during your stay in Japan — not only about cooking — please feel free to tell me. I would love to support your curiosity as much as I can.
It would be my great pleasure to help make your time in Japan a wonderful and memorable experience. I truly look forward to meeting you!
The closest station
Kamonomiya Station
How to get to the station?
From Odawara Station: 5mins
Free pick up service
This host can pick up you for free from the closest station!
Exact location provided after booking.
Yes, Japanese Gyoza & Onigiri Cooking in a Local Home near Hakone has a vegetarian option.
It costs 5000 per person.
Duration of this cooking class is 2 hours.
Up to 4 people can join Yuko's cooking class.
Please go to Kamonomiya Station which takes 5 mins from Odawara Station. Then Yuko (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.
