Your experience begins at Kintetsu Gakuenmae Station in Nara, where I will personally pick you up and bring you to my home for a relaxed and intimate culinary experience away from busy tourist areas.

Set in a cosy home where warm Western interiors meet subtle Japanese aesthetics, this small-group experience is limited to a maximum of four guests, creating a calm and personal atmosphere.

After changing into a provided apron, we will begin a fully hands-on sushi workshop. No cooking experience is necessary, and each step will be carefully guided in English.

First, you will learn how to make elegant pressed sushi using a traditional hinoki wood mould. Topped with shrimp and seasoned egg, the sushi is layered with simmered shiitake mushrooms and mangetout, then gently wrapped in fragrant persimmon leaves, rooted in Nara’s traditional kakinoha-zushi culture. From early summer through autumn, we may also pick fresh persimmon leaves from the garden to wrap the sushi.

Next, you will create classic sushi rolls filled with shrimp, cucumber, and egg while learning practical techniques that can easily be recreated at home.

After the cooking is complete, enjoy your handmade sushi in a calm and thoughtfully styled setting, accompanied by a homemade matcha soya latte and traditional wagashi sweets. During this relaxed time, guests are welcome to ask questions about Japanese food culture, ingredients, and everyday life in Japan.

At the end of the class, you will receive a thoughtfully prepared digital recipe booklet including sushi recipes, Japanese rice preparation, and an introduction to essential Japanese pantry ingredients.

For guests interested in Japanese food culture beyond the class, an optional stop at a local supermarket is also available after the experience. I will happily help you discover authentic ingredients and pantry items commonly used in Japanese homes.

Perfect for couples, solo travellers, food lovers, and small groups seeking a quieter and more personal connection to Japanese culture in Nara.

Depending on the season and ingredient availability, some elements of the menu may change to ensure the freshest experience.

Please note that this experience includes shrimp, egg, soya, and gluten. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please inform me in advance so I can do my best to accommodate you.