FRIENDLY SUSHI MAKING
CLASS.
Enjoy a hands-on sushi making class in a cozy, private setting in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district.
Learn. Create. Taste. Cherish the moment with matcha, too!
ABOUT OUR CLASS
- Discover a Fun, Hands-On Sushi & Matcha Experience in Kyoto -
MAKE YOUR OWN SUSHI:
Learn how to make delicious nigiri with simple, step-by-step guidance.
With our original 16-step illustrated recipe, anyone can enjoy making sushi. From shaping the rice to adding toppings, you'll learn the basics of nigiri in a fun and supportive environment. Feel free to plate your sushi your own way—creativity is welcome!
TRY JAPANESE MATCHA:
Experience the essence of tea culture—simple, friendly, and delicious.
Japanese tea ceremonies can feel formal, but our matcha experience is different. We focus on the joy of making tea by yourself using traditional tools. Just learn how to whisk and sip—it’s a perfect introduction to matcha culture in a casual and welcoming setting.
Why Choose Our Sushi Class?
- Discover what makes our experience unique and unforgettable. -
Whether you're visiting Kyoto for the first time or looking for something special to do, our private sushi and matcha class offers a fun, authentic, and memorable experience for everyone.
Private & Small Group Only
Your group only—no strangers.
Enjoy a peaceful and personal class, limited to 6 people max.
Fun & Easy for First-Timers
Our 16-step illustrated guide makes sushi making simple.No experience needed. Just enjoy and create.
Sushi & Matcha in One Class
Make delicious sushi and whisk your own matcha.
Two iconic Japanese traditions in a single session.
Located in Kyoto
Held in a quiet space in the heart of Higashiyama.
Just 10 minutes from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.
ABOUT OUR SERVICE
- What’s Included in Our Sushi & Matcha Experience -
Class Duration
We offer two sessions daily:
-
1st Session: Starts at 11:00 AM
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2nd Session: Starts at 2:00 PM
Each session is completely private, reserved only for your group.
We accept up to 6 people per class, making it ideal for families, couples, or small friend groups who want a relaxed and personal experience.
The class takes place in a calm and cozy space located in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama area—just 10 minutes from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.
We recommend arriving a few minutes early to settle in and begin on time.
Price
-
15,000 JPY per person
Includes all materials, ingredients, and matcha tools
Original recipe provided to take home
Experience Includes
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Welcome & Introduction
Friendly greetings and a short explanation of the class -
Sushi Lecture
Learn about the history and culture of sushi in Japan -
How-to Instructions
Follow our original 16-step illustrated guide -
Sushi Making Time
Make your own beautiful nigiri and plate them your way -
Tasting & Matcha Experience
Eat your sushi and make matcha using traditional tools
Notes
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Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies
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Cancellations: Free up to the day before / 100% fee on the same day
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Booking is available only through TripAdvisor
Meet Your Instructor
- Naoki Hashimoto – Sharing Sushi with Heart and Soul -
From Ocean to Sushi – A Life Close to Fish
Hi, I’m Naoki Hashimoto, founder of FRIENDLY SUSHI MAKING CLASS.
Before starting this class, I worked as a scuba diving instructor trainer.
Living and working near the sea, I was always surrounded by fish—and naturally, I became fascinated by sushi. Over time, I began making sushi at home as a hobby.
Helping local fishermen and eating freshly caught fish inspired my appreciation for Japan’s food culture. Today, I share that passion with travelers from around the world.
Ichigo Ichie – One Encounter, One Chance
What I value most is the Japanese philosophy of "Ichigo Ichie"—each encounter is unique and should be cherished.
Even though my English is not perfect, I truly enjoy communicating with people from different cultures. I believe smiles, food, and hands-on experiences can connect us beyond language.
I hope this class will be more than just a lesson. I want it to be a warm memory from your trip to Japan.
How the Experience Works
- Step into Japanese culture—hands-on and memorable. -
1. Arrival & Greeting
We welcome you warmly at our cozy classroom in Kyoto’s Higashiyama area.
You’ll meet your host, Naoki, and get settled into a peaceful private space.
Slippers and hand sanitizer are provided for your comfort.
2. Sushi Lecture
Before getting started, you’ll learn a little about sushi’s origin and history—
Why did people start eating sushi? What’s the meaning behind the ingredients?
A short but fun cultural insight, shared in simple English.
3. How-To Instructions
You’ll be given a custom-made 16-step illustrated guide.
Naoki will explain how to shape the rice, handle the fish, and plate your sushi beautifully.
The instructions are visual, clear, and beginner-friendly.
4. Sushi Making Time
Now it’s your turn!
Use real sushi ingredients and tools to shape and arrange your own nigiri.
You can follow the examples or get creative with your presentation—there are no rules!
5. Tasting & Matcha Experience
Sit down, relax, and enjoy the sushi you made with your own hands.
Then, using traditional tools like the tea whisk and bowl, you’ll make your own matcha.
Don’t worry—Naoki will guide you step by step.
FAQ
- Frequently Asked Questions -
About Our Class
- A Cozy Space in Kyoto’s Historic Higashiyama Area -
Name
FRIENDLY SUSHI MAKING CLASS
Founder
Naoki Hashimoto
Location
〒605-0951
京都府京都市東山区東瓦町690
Higashikawara-cho 690, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan 605-0951
SNS
Contact Us
- Have a question or request? Feel free to reach out! -
We’re always happy to hear from you!
Whether you have a question about the class, a special request, or just want to say hello — feel free to get in touch.
We’ll do our best to respond as quickly as possible.