Sushi or Obanzai Cooking and Matcha With a Kyoto Native in Her Home

Set out on a culinary journey to the heart of Kyoto, where a local resident, Emika, welcomes you into her cozy home. Discover the authentic flavors of Japan as you learn to prepare traditional Obanzai dishes or the art of sushi-making. Sip on regional alcoholic beverages or refreshing matcha tea while enjoying the city’s rich gastronomic heritage. This personalized experience offers a chance to explore Kyoto’s vibrant culinary scene, but the true delight lies in the intimate setting and the opportunity to connect with a passionate local…

Key Points

• Experience traditional Japanese cuisine by learning to prepare Obanzai dishes and sushi with a local Kyoto resident in the comfort of her home.
• Enjoy local alcoholic beverages or matcha tea while savoring the flavors of Kyoto’s seasonal ingredients.
• Convenient location near Katsura station, with clear directions provided for a stress-free arrival.
• Personalized dining experience with menu options tailored to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions.
• Immerse in the local culture and hospitality as you learn about Kyoto’s culinary traditions.

Overview of the Experience

Sushi or Obanzai Cooking and Matcha With a Kyoto Native in Her Home

Overview of the Experience
This cooking experience with a local Kyoto resident, Emika, offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese cuisine and culture. Participants will have the chance to prepare a selection of Obanzai dishes and sushi alongside their host, while also enjoying local alcoholic beverages or matcha tea.

The private class takes place in Emika’s home, just a short walk or taxi ride from Katsura station. Guests can expect to start with a warming miso soup before moving on to the main event – creating their own Oshi or nigiri sushi, as well as classic Obanzai dishes like Okonomiyaki and Gyoza. It’s a truly immersive culinary adventure.

What’s Included in the Package

The package includes a private cooking class and home-cooked meal with host Emika, where participants can enjoy local alcohol (1-2 glasses) and non-alcoholic beverages. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered.

The cooking class involves learning to make traditional Kyoto cuisine, including:

Dish	Description
Obanzai	A style of home-style Kyoto cooking featuring seasonal vegetables and grains
Sushi	Classic nigiri-style sushi
Okonomiyaki	A savory Japanese pancake
Gyoza	Dumplings filled with pork and vegetables

Whether you opt for sushi, Obanzai, or other specialties, you’ll get to savor the flavors of Kyoto alongside your host Emika in the comfort of her own home.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Participants meet host Emika at her home in Kyoto, which is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from Katsura station on the Hankyu Kyoto line.

This convenient location makes it easy for guests to arrive and begin the cooking and cultural experience.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into Emika’s cozy home, where the class will take place.

Emika provides clear directions to her home, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to the day.

The close proximity to public transportation also means guests can explore Kyoto’s sights before or after the class if they wish.

With Emika’s guidance, participants embark on a delightful culinary journey in the heart of this historic city.

Sample Menu Options

During the cooking class, Emika presents guests with a variety of traditional Kyoto dishes to prepare. The menu often features a starter of miso soup, followed by a main course that could include:

• Oshi: A type of pressed sushi
• Nigiri-sushi: Hand-pressed sushi with a slice of raw fish
• Obanzai: A collection of Kyoto-style vegetable dishes
• Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake with cabbage and other ingredients
• Gyoza: Delicate dumplings, either steamed or pan-fried

Emika tailors the menu to highlight seasonal ingredients and the culinary preferences of each group, ensuring a truly personalized dining experience.

Dietary Accommodations and Preferences

Emika accommodates guests’ dietary needs and culinary preferences, tailoring the menu to each group. She’s happy to modify dishes for vegetarians, vegans, or those with food allergies or intolerances. Guests simply need to advise her of any restrictions when booking the experience.

For example, Emika can prepare vegan or gluten-free versions of traditional Obanzai dishes, or omit eggs from the Okonomiyaki batter. She also sources local, seasonal ingredients to ensure the freshest and most flavorful meal possible. Whether you prefer a plant-based feast or a seafood-forward sushi experience, Emika will craft an unforgettable culinary journey tailored to your tastes.

Dietary Need	Sample Modification	Advance Notice
Vegetarian	Vegan Obanzai Dishes	At Booking
Gluten-Free	Gluten-Free Okonomiyaki	At Booking
Nut Allergy	Nut-Free Sauces	At Booking

Confirmation and Booking Details

Booking the Cooking with a Kyoto Native experience is a straightforward process, with confirmation provided at the time of reservation.

Guests can expect clear communication from Emika regarding the meeting location and any necessary details leading up to the class. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s recommended that participants inform Emika of any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance.

The menu may vary depending on the season, but Emika is adept at accommodating a range of culinary needs.

Plus, guests should note the cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund if the experience is cancelled at least two days prior.

Cancellation Policy

Recognizing the potential for change in travel plans, the Cooking with a Kyoto Native experience offers a flexible cancellation policy, providing guests with a full refund if the class is cancelled at least two days in advance.

This considerate approach ensures that participants can book with confidence, knowing that their investment is protected should unexpected circumstances arise. The policy reflects the host’s commitment to delivering a seamless and enjoyable experience, prioritizing the needs of her guests.

Additional Information

Guests can look forward to a menu that varies based on the season, ensuring they experience the freshest and most authentic flavors of Kyoto’s culinary traditions. Emika, the host, encourages participants to communicate any allergies, dietary restrictions, or cooking preferences in advance, allowing her to tailor the experience to their individual needs and preferences.

Attendees can also expect:

• Confirmation of their booking at the time of reservation
• A memorable and immersive cultural experience in Emika’s charming home
• Opportunities to savor local alcoholic beverages or sip on refreshing matcha tea
• Flexibility to explore the nearby Katsura station on the Hankyu Kyoto line
• A cancellation policy that offers a full refund if cancelled 2 days or more in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Traditional Japanese Clothing Provided During the Class?

Traditional Japanese clothing is not provided during the cooking class. The focus is on learning to prepare authentic Kyoto cuisine and enjoying the meal in a comfortable, home setting with your local host.

Can the Experience Be Customized for a Larger Group?

Yes, the experience can be customized for larger groups. The host is flexible and can accommodate groups of up to 8 people, ensuring a personalized and engaging cooking class and meal in the comfort of her Kyoto home.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Class?

There are no age restrictions for participating in the cooking class. Both adults and children are welcome to join and learn traditional Kyoto cuisine alongside a local host in her home.

What Is the Maximum Number of Guests Allowed?

The cooking class typically accommodates up to 4 guests, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience with the local host. This ensures ample hands-on participation and attention from the instructor during the class.

Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Package Price?

The package price includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges. There are no additional costs beyond the package price. Guests can enjoy a private cooking class, home-cooked meal, alcoholic drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages as part of the experience.

Recap

Dive into Kyoto’s culinary heritage with this intimate hands-on experience. Learn to prepare traditional Obanzai dishes and sushi from a local host, Emika, in the comfort of her home.

Savor the fruits of your labor alongside regional beverages or revitalizing matcha tea. This personalized class lets you learn about Kyoto’s gastronomic delights for an authentic taste of the city’s rich culinary culture.