Sushi making experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Sushi Making Experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo

If you’re wandering through the lively streets of Shinjuku, and craving a hands-on taste of Japanese culture, this sushi making experience might catch your eye. Located at Flower Wall Mone, a cozy cafe and bar surrounded by a vibrant display of flowers, this activity costs about $74 per person and lasts roughly an hour. Here, you’ll get to craft Temari Sushi, a small, round, bite-sized sushi that’s as cute as it is tasty—modeled after the traditional Temari toy, a colorful ball that’s been part of Japan’s history for centuries.

What really sets this experience apart are two features: the opportunity to make your own sushi in a relaxed setting, and the chance to adorn your creations with photogenic edible flowers. These edible blooms make your sushi not just delicious but Instagram-worthy—perfect for sharing your culinary handiwork with friends. Plus, the experience emphasizes easy sushi making, making it accessible to complete beginners or those who just want a fun, interactive activity during their Tokyo trip.

However, it’s worth noting a potential downside: some reviewers mention that the class might not be as instructive or comprehensive as you’d hope. One traveler commented, “it wasn’t much of a class,” implying that the focus is more on the fun of making your own sushi than detailed teaching. If you’re hoping for a full-on sushi masterclass, this might fall a bit short.

Ultimately, this experience appeals most to travelers seeking a casual, Instagram-friendly activity rather than a deep culinary lesson. It’s best suited for those wanting a light-hearted cultural snack, a fun date, or a unique way to create souvenirs while exploring Tokyo.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Hands-on sushi making focused on creating Temari Sushi with colorful edible flowers.
• Accessible for beginners, offering a relaxed, no-stress environment.
• Photogenic presentation makes it ideal for sharing online or memorable photos.
• The experience includes one drink and sweets, adding a casual, social touch.
• Some reviews suggest it’s more about the fun than detailed instruction.
• Located conveniently in Shinjuku’s Flower Wall Mone, a lively, flower-filled cafe.

A detailed look at what this experience offers

Location and Atmosphere

Starting at Flower Wall Mone, the setting sets a cheerful tone for your sushi adventure. The cafe’s walls, decked with flowers, provide a bright, lively backdrop—perfect for those Instagram photos or just a cheerful environment. It’s a small, cozy space, so expect a relaxed, somewhat intimate experience rather than a large, bustling class.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Upon arrival, you’re welcomed by staff (who may not all speak fluent English, so a translator might help), and you’re offered a drink (included) and sweets. Once the sushi ingredients arrive—fresh sashimi, vinegared rice, and edible flowers—the instructor or staff demonstrate how to make Temari Sushi. The focus is on making small, round bites that resemble the traditional Temari toy, which is both beautiful and easy to handle.

This demonstration is straightforward: place a piece of sashimi on a sheet of gauze or plastic wrap, add sushi rice, then wrap and shape into a small, round ball. The key is to make the sushi bite-sized and easy to eat, which makes it perfect for sharing or snacking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Making Your Own Temari Sushi

After the demonstration, you’re free to craft your own Temari Sushi with your preferred ingredients and edible flowers. The staff is available to assist if needed, though some reviewers note that not all staff speak perfect English, so patience and a little translation help can go a long way.

You’ll love the way you can personalize your sushi, choosing colors, ingredients, and flower decorations to match your taste. The process is designed to be fun, not overly technical—so don’t expect a culinary masterclass, but rather a creative activity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers all food ingredients, a drink (including alcoholic options, with ID required for those under 20), and sweets to finish. This makes it a reasonably priced activity considering the quality of the experience and the fun photos you’ll get. However, it does not include bottles of wine or champagne, and the activity isn’t covered by insurance—so plan accordingly.

The Verdict from Other Travelers

One reviewer pointed out, “It wasn’t much of a class… That was the extent of the class,” implying the focus was on making sushi rather than in-depth instruction. Another added, “Cute venue but was too expensive with no instructor,” highlighting that some might feel the value doesn’t match the cost if they’re expecting a more educational experience.

Practical Considerations

Since the activity takes place in a small venue in Shinjuku, transportation is straightforward, especially if you’re already exploring this vibrant neighborhood. The activity lasts about an hour, making it a quick yet memorable addition to your itinerary. Keep in mind, the language barrier might mean some instructions are translated, so patience and a friendly attitude are helpful.

Why this experience might suit you

If you’re in Tokyo and want a lighthearted, creative activity with a touch of Japanese tradition, this sushi-making session fits the bill. It’s especially appealing if you love colorful, photogenic food, or if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys DIY activities. It’s perfect for those who prefer a casual environment over a formal class and want to take home a personalized sushi souvenir.

However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive culinary lesson or detailed instructions on sushi technique, this might leave you wanting more. For a more immersive or educational experience, other classes or market tours might be better suited.

Final thoughts: Is this experience worth it?

For the cost of $74, you get a fun, interactive activity that combines art, food, and a bit of Japan’s traditional aesthetic. The inclusion of a drink and sweets adds to the relaxed vibe, making it more of a social outing than a serious cooking class. The focus on creating your own colorful Temari Sushi, adorned with edible flowers, ensures you’ll leave with a memorable photo and a sense of achievement.

This experience truly shines for those wanting a casual, enjoyable activity rather than an in-depth culinary lesson. It’s perfect for casual travelers, couples, or groups seeking a fun, visually appealing souvenir of their time in Tokyo.

If you’re after authenticity mixed with a playful touch, and don’t mind a simple demonstration rather than expert instruction, this is a charming choice. But if you prefer a more detailed, professional sushi class, consider exploring other options.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the activity is designed to be easy enough for first-timers, focusing on bite-sized, round sushi that’s simple to shape.

How long does the activity last?
It typically takes about an hour, including the demonstration, making it a quick yet memorable activity.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, a drink is included, and alcoholic options are available. Participants under 20 need to bring ID, as alcohol laws are strict.

Can I make my sushi as colorful as I want?
Absolutely, the use of edible flowers and various ingredients allows for plenty of personalization.

Is the venue loud or lively?
The setting at Flower Wall Mone is cheerful and flower-filled, creating a vibrant, cozy atmosphere.

Do I need to speak Japanese to participate?
While some staff may have limited English, the activity is straightforward enough that language barriers shouldn’t be a problem—just a little patience.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The experience uses sashimi and rice, so if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, check beforehand.

Is this a good activity for children?
It could be suitable, especially if kids enjoy hands-on crafts and food, but supervision and consideration of age are advised.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Summary

This Sushi Making Experience in Shinjuku offers a lighthearted way to participate in Japanese culinary culture without the need for prior cooking skills. The colorful Temari Sushi, adorned with edible flowers, makes for memorable photos and fun tasting. The setting in Flower Wall Mone adds to the relaxed, cheerful vibe, making it a great activity for casual travelers wanting a taste of Japan’s aesthetic and culinary side.

While it may not replace a comprehensive sushi class or detailed culinary lesson, it’s an affordable and enjoyable way to create your own sushi and take home a fun souvenir. If you’re seeking a casual, photogenic, culturally enriching experience and value the chance to make something beautiful with your own hands, this could be a delightful addition to your Tokyo trip.

For those who prioritize authenticity and depth, or who want a guided, instructional experience, exploring other classes might be wiser. But for pure fun, a bit of artistic expression, and tasty bites, this activity in Shinjuku offers good value with a memorable twist.

You can check availability for your dates here: