Arrive in Kichijoji, one of Tokyo’s most well-regarded residential and dining areas, known for its active local food scene. Head to a casual sushi or seafood restaurant listed on Tabelog, where the atmosphere reflects everyday Japanese dining culture rather than formal omakase settings.

Meet your guide, who will introduce the venue and outline how the class will unfold before the chef steps in. Watch as the chef demonstrates nigiri technique directly in front of you, walking through each step from rice handling to fish placement.

Your guide translates and explains as the chef works, making the instruction accessible regardless of your Japanese ability. Then, follow along, applying the same technique yourself — shape rice portions and press each piece of fish into place under the chef’s supervision.

Ask questions throughout, and the chef and guide will respond directly. Once you have worked through the nigiri-making process, sit down to eat the sushi you have prepared.

The session closes with the opportunity to ask any remaining questions about Japanese sushi culture or technique. Leave with a first-hand understanding of how nigiri is constructed, having shaped and assembled each piece yourself from start to finish.