Japanese dried-type Sweets (Ohigashi) making

Japanese Dried-type Sweets (Ohigashi) Making: A Hands-On Journey into Japanese Confectionery

Imagine spending about 30 minutes in a cozy Tokyo classroom, rolling and shaping beautiful, delicate sweets made from 100% Wasanbon sugar—a traditional Japanese sugar celebrated for its refined, mellow flavor. For just $11 per person, this experience offers a glimpse into the intricate craft of Japanese sweets, known as Ohigashi. Guided by friendly staff, you’ll choose your favorite wooden mold, shape your own sweets, and enjoy tasting the fruit of your labor.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the chance to see and taste high-quality Wasanbon, which is rarely available outside Japan, and the adorable option to customize your sweets’ shapes with various wooden molds. It’s both fun and educational, perfect for those curious about Japanese culture or sweet enthusiasts looking for a memorable hands-on activity.

One caveat: the experience operates only from 10:00 to 17:00, so late arrivals may need to reschedule. Also, if you’re hoping for colorful Ohigashi, there’s an extra fee of 200 JPY, which adds a playful visual element. This activity is ideal for travelers who enjoy crafting, tasting, and cultural discovery—especially families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a relaxed, authentic Japanese activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Craft: Make 100% Wasanbon sweets, not just imitation or flavored versions.
• Custom Shapes: Choose from cute wooden molds to personalize your sweets.
• Fresh Taste: Enjoy freshly made Ohigashi, with a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cultural Insight: Gain an understanding of traditional Japanese sugar-making.
• Value for Money: At only $11, it’s a reasonably priced way to engage with Japanese confectionery.
• Additional Options: For a small fee, you can add colorful decoration to your sweets, enhancing the visual appeal.

An In-Depth Look at the Ohigashi Making Experience

Making Ohigashi is a fascinating peek into a traditional craft that dates back centuries. This activity is based in Honshu, Japan, at a venue called AN TOKYO, conveniently located for visitors exploring Tokyo’s cultural sights. The experience lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes, including explanation, making, picture-taking, and tasting, which makes it accessible even for those with limited time.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start and Explanation
The session begins with a brief introduction to Japanese traditional sweets and their cultural importance. The guide or instructor explains how Wasanbon, a high-quality Japanese sugar, is made and why it’s cherished for its mellow, sophisticated flavor. This sets a respectful tone, emphasizing the craftsmanship behind these sweets.

Making Your Ohigashi
Next, it’s time to get your hands sticky, in a good way. You will work with 100% Wasanbon sugar, which is fluffy and smooth, melting in your mouth with a delicate sweetness. The process involves kneading and shaping the sugar into your chosen form, which you select from a set of cute wooden molds. This customization aspect really adds a personal touch and makes for memorable photos.

Coloring and Decoration
By default, the sweets are made without added color, maintaining their natural beauty, but for an additional 200 JPY, you can create colorful Ohigashi. This offers a playful, vibrant twist, perfect for those who love visual creativity or want to give the sweets as gifts.

Taste and Relaxation
Once shaped, the instructor will suggest you enjoy the sweets immediately. You’ll appreciate the unique melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle flavor that only freshly made Wasanbon can provide. Many reviewers comment on how fluffy and smooth the sugar melts, offering a different sensory experience than typical candies.

End and Reflection
After about 30 minutes, the session wraps up with some picture-taking and a chance to savor your handmade sweets. You can also inquire about the experience certificate for an extra 300 JPY—an excellent souvenir to remember your Japanese confections adventure.

What Makes This Experience Special?

Authentic Use of Wasanbon
Unlike many candy-making classes that focus on flavored or colored sugar, this one emphasizes 100% Wasanbon, a sugar made through traditional Japanese methods in Japan. The mellow flavor and soft, fluffy texture are what set these sweets apart, and you’ll get to see and taste that firsthand.

Personalized Shapes and Creativity
Choosing from a variety of wooden molds allows you to create cute, Instagram-worthy sweets. Whether it’s a heart, star, or animal, this visual customization makes the experience more memorable and fun, especially for families or couples.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

• Pricing: At just $11, this activity offers solid value, especially considering you get to make and taste your own sweets. Additional costs apply only if you want colorful sweets or a certificate.
• Reservation and Timing: The experience runs daily between 10:00 and 17:00, but reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot. Be punctual, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
• Language: The class is conducted mainly in Japanese, but English translation is provided as much as possible. If you want to ensure smooth communication, it’s worth mentioning upon booking.
• Group Size and Atmosphere: Expect a small, cozy group that fosters a relaxed, friendly environment—perfect for beginners or those curious about Japanese culture.
• Family-Friendly: Children who sit on their parents’ laps are free, making this a good option for families with small children.

Why Choose This Activity?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, want a deeper understanding of Japanese sweets, or are simply looking for a unique cultural souvenir. It’s particularly appealing if you have a sweet tooth or are interested in traditional craftsmanship. The activity’s relaxed pace and focus on fresh, natural ingredients also make it ideal for those wanting an authentic, calming break from busy sightseeing.

Who Will Love This?

Travelers craving a practical, hands-on cultural experience that’s affordable and memorable will find this a gem. Food lovers, families, or anyone interested in Japanese traditions will appreciate the opportunity to see, shape, and taste something genuinely Japanese. It’s also a great activity if you’re looking for a unique gift or souvenir that stands out from typical tourist fare.

However, keep in mind that the class is primarily in Japanese, so some basic language familiarity or a willingness to follow visual instructions will help. Those with dietary restrictions or specific color preferences should note that, unless paid extra, the sweets are naturally colored.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children who can sit on their parents’ laps are free of charge, making it family-friendly. The activity is simple enough for kids to enjoy, especially if they love sweets.

Can I make colorful Ohigashi?
Yes, for an extra 200 JPY, you can add colorful decoration to your sweets, which adds a fun visual element.

How long does the experience last?
It takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, including explanation, making, and tasting, providing a relaxed but engaging activity.

What is included in the price?
You get a set of experience making Japanese dried sweets. If you wish to add color or receive a certificate, those are available at extra cost.

Is there an option for a certificate of participation?
Yes, for 300 JPY, you can obtain an experience completion certificate—a nice keepsake.

What language is used during the class?
While the main language is Japanese, English translation is provided as much as possible. Contact the provider if you want to ensure smoother communication.

Are there any restrictions or cancellation policies?
Reservations are required, and cancellations made after 17:00 are treated as the next day. Cancellations incur fees, especially if it’s after the deadline, so plan accordingly.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, which helps keep your plans flexible. Full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to explore Japanese confectionery traditions firsthand, this Ohigashi making experience is a delightful, educational, and affordable option. It offers a rare chance to work with high-quality Wasanbon sugar, learn about its significance, and create a personalized sweet that can be enjoyed immediately or taken home as a souvenir.

The activity’s simplicity and focus on authenticity make it suitable for all ages, especially families or curious travelers wanting a meaningful cultural activity that’s a little different from the typical sightseeing. While the language barrier might pose a small challenge, the visual and hands-on nature of the class helps bridge that gap.

In sum, this experience provides a deep dive into traditional Japanese sweets in a relaxed setting, perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship, culture, and a bit of fun in their travels. Whether you’re a foodie, a family with kids, or simply someone looking for an authentic craft to take home, this sweet-making class in Tokyo offers good value and a memorable story to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: