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Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through the art of traditional sweets making and a serene tea ceremony. Guided by a local expert, you’ll create seasonal wagashi using Kyoto-sourced ingredients and enjoy hand-prepared Uji matcha.
Highlights
- Craft two seasonal nerikiri sweets using premium white and red bean paste from Kyoto’s historic shops
- Participate in an authentic tea ceremony using carefully selected, single-origin Uji matcha
- Learn the meaning and artistry behind Japanese wagashi and their connection to nature and seasons
- Enjoy a hands-on experience suitable for all skill levels and ages
- Take home unique memories and photos from your cultural experience in central Osaka
Full Description
Step into the elegant world of traditional Japanese hospitality with this hands-on experience in Osaka. Begin with crafting two types of wagashi (Japanese traditional sweets) known as nerikiri — delicate confections made from sweet white bean paste shaped to reflect seasonal motifs like flowers or fruits.
With guidance from your instructor, you’ll start by coloring and shaping the nerikiri, learning how these edible works of art represent nature and the seasons in Japanese culture. Both beginner and experienced participants will find joy in this creative and calming process.
Next, transition into the tranquil world of Japanese tea ceremony. After a brief explanation of tea culture, enjoy a demonstration of matcha grinding and traditional tea preparation. You’ll then whisk your own cup of premium Uji matcha, and savor it alongside the sweets you created.
This 90-minute experience is a perfect way to appreciate the harmony and balance of Japanese culinary aesthetics. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, you’ll leave with meaningful memories—and perhaps a newfound love for Japanese wagashi and tea.
Sample Schedule
- 00 min: Introduction and overview of wagashi
- 10 min: Nerikiri #1 – Flower-shaped sweet (shaping and coloring)
- 25 min: Nerikiri #2 – Kinton-style sweet (shaping and finishing)
- 55 min: Short break
- 65 min: Introduction to Japanese tea culture
- 70 min: Matcha grinding and tea ceremony experience
- 85 min: Photo time and final Q&A
- 90–95 min: Enjoy your handmade sweets with your matcha
- 95 min: End of experience
Pricing
From ¥2,800 per person
Includes
- Nerikiri sweets making experience (2 types)
- Matcha tea ceremony with tea preparation
- Use of all tools and ingredients
- English-speaking instructor
- Cultural guidance and photo opportunity
Meeting Point
1-chōme-12-18 Edobori, Nishi Ward, Osaka, 550-0002, Japan
Access:
- 1-minute walk from Exit 10 of Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line Higobashi Station
- 5-minute walk from Exit 7 of Keihan Nakanoshima Line Watanabebashi Station
- 7-minute walk from Exit 10 of Osaka Metro/Keihan Yodoyabashi Station
- 10-minute walk from Exit 11-5 of JR Tozai Line Kitashinchi Station
- 15-minute walk from Osaka Station (South Central Gate)
- If arriving by car, please use nearby coin parking lots
Reviews
“Loved making the Japanese desserts and the tea ceremony was amazing. The teacher spoke excellent English and created a warm, welcoming experience. Great value for money and a beautiful cultural memory.”
“We really enjoyed learning about matcha and Japanese tea traditions. The hands-on dessert making was fun and educational.”
“Our host was patient and explained the meaning behind each wagashi. The nerikiri-making was a peaceful and beautiful experience.”
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