Sushi Cooking Class at Sushi Factory -KIWAMI- Mt.Fuji

A Hands-On Sushi Experience with a View of Mt. Fuji

If you’re looking to combine Japanese culinary traditions with a dash of fun, the Sushi Factory -KIWAMI- offers a lively sushi-making class in Fujikawaguchiko-machi, just a scenic drive from Mt. Fuji. Priced at about $142 per person, this 90-minute class guides you through creating various traditional sushi types—from Temari to Nigiri—while incorporating playful puzzles and challenges. The activity is held at the Ramen Factory, and the experience is topped off with a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in the background, making it a memorable cultural highlight.

What we love most is how the instructor makes the process interactive and engaging, turning sushi-making into a mini adventure. Plus, the chance to grate fresh wasabi and craft decorative sushi boats adds a creative layer that appeals to both food lovers and families. But, a note of caution: some visitors find the experience gimmicky or overpriced, emphasizing that it may feel more like entertainment than an authentic cultural lesson.

This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, hands-on activity, especially those interested in Japanese food but not expecting an in-depth culinary or culture. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking an activity that’s as much about enjoying the moment as it is about learning to make sushi.

Key Points

• Interactive and playful: Combining sushi-making with puzzles and challenges keeps the activity lively.
• Beautiful setting: The views of Mt. Fuji provide a picturesque backdrop that elevates the experience.
• Culinary skills: Learn to make Temari, Gunkan, Nigiri, and Temaki sushi—all traditional styles with local flair.
• Inclusion of fresh ingredients: Grating fresh wasabi adds authenticity and a sensory experience.
• Value for price: With the cost including lunch or dinner, and all fees covered, it balances entertainment and food.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal touch.

What to Expect from the Sushi Class Near Mt. Fuji

When you arrive at the Ramen Factory, you’ll meet your local instructor, who will guide you through the process of making sushi in a friendly, approachable way. The class lasts about 90 minutes, during which you’ll actively participate in creating various types of sushi that are staples of Japanese cuisine.

The first part of the session focuses on the basics: learning the proper technique for shaping Nigiri and Temaki (hand rolls), and forming Temari (ball-shaped sushi). The instructor emphasizes precision and presentation, giving you tips so you can recreate these at home if you wish.

One especially fun element is the challenge of crafting sushi pearls—a playful way to experiment with form and texture. You’ll also get the opportunity to make and build decorative sushi boats, which adds a creative twist and makes the activity visually appealing.

A highlight is grating your own fresh domestic wasabi—a sensory-rich task that many find surprisingly satisfying. This step allows you to understand the importance of quality ingredients in sushi and adds a touch of authenticity that elevates your creations.

Throughout the class, you’ll be encouraged to solve puzzles related to sushi assembly, keeping the mood light and engaging. The instructor, often a local, will also share insights into Japanese food culture, providing context that enhances your appreciation of the culinary art.

The experience concludes with you enjoying the sushi you’ve made, complemented by the stunning views of Mt. Fuji, which makes for a perfect photo opportunity or a peaceful moment of reflection.

Authenticity, Fun, and Value

While some reviews mention that the experience can feel more like entertainment than culture, it’s clear that the primary goal is fun and memorable. The fact that the tour includes lunch or dinner and all fees means you’re paying for a complete, hassle-free experience—especially appealing for travelers who want a try-it-yourself approach without the fuss of sourcing ingredients or finding a sushi chef.

The group size—a maximum of 15 people—ensures a more personalized interaction, and the local instructor often adds a friendly, approachable vibe. This is not a deep dive into Japanese culinary history, but for those seeking an interactive, light-hearted activity with great visuals and tasty results, it hits the mark.

However, note that the activity is booked well in advance (about 25 days), which suggests it’s popular, but also that it might fill quickly during peak seasons. If you’re after a unique experience near Mt. Fuji that blends culture, cuisine, and a bit of playful challenge, this class offers excellent value.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Arrival and Meeting Point

You’ll start at the Ramen Factory in Fujikawaguchiko, a location conveniently near public transportation. This makes it easier to reach without renting a car, which is a plus for those relying on trains or buses. The meeting point is straightforward, and you’ll check in for your session which is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring plenty of instructor attention.

The Sushi-Making Process

The instructor, likely a local guide, begins by introducing the varieties of sushi you’ll make, explaining the significance behind each style and demonstrating the techniques. You’ll start by preparing rice, learning how to season and shape it properly. The hands-on nature means you’ll be rolling, pressing, and shaping your sushi under guidance, with plenty of encouragement.

Puzzles and Challenges

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll tackle fun challenges like creating sushi pearls—small, round, tasty bites—and building decorative sushi boats that are as much artistic expression as food. These challenges serve as a delightful break from the routine, making the experience engaging for kids and adults alike.

Grating Wasabi and Other Details

A standout moment is grating your own wasabi, which is both sensory and educational. You’ll see why premium ingredients matter and appreciate the sharp, fresh flavor of home-grated wasabi compared to pre-made paste.

Enjoying Your Creations

The class wraps up with a sitting down to enjoy your sushi. The views of Mt. Fuji serve as a breathtaking backdrop, with many guests sharing photos and admiring their handiwork. It’s a satisfying way to conclude a fun, interactive session.

Price and Value Perspective

At $141.84, the cost includes all ingredients, activities, and a meal—meaning no hidden extras. For the experience of learning traditional sushi techniques in such a scenic setting, this offers solid value, especially considering the inclusion of hands-on fun and authentic ingredients.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

One guest described the experience as “something to remember,” though they noted it was “not necessarily for all the right reasons,” hinting at a perception of it being somewhat gimmicky. Conversely, many loved the stunning views and the delicious sushi they could take home, especially appreciating the interactive elements.

A reviewer highlighted that the good part was the sushi making—they made eight pieces—showing the activity’s practical and satisfying outcome. The limited group size and personal interaction seem to be appreciated, making the activity feel more special than a generic tour.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This class is ideal for travelers who want a lighthearted, engaging activity that mixes culture, food, and fun. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to try their hand at sushi-making in a relaxed atmosphere. However, if you’re seeking a deeply cultural or culinary masterclass, this might not satisfy those looking for a rigorous, traditional experience.

Because of its popularity and booking lead time, plan ahead to secure your spot. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Japanese cuisine and a beautiful setting, this class offers a combination of scenic beauty, tasty food, and playful challenges that will leave you with good memories—and probably some sushi to take home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all fees, taxes, ingredients, and a meal—either lunch or dinner—depending on your schedule.

How long does the class last?
The activity runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and ends at the Ramen Factory in Fujikawaguchiko.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the meeting point.

What types of sushi will I learn to make?
You’ll get hands-on experience making Temari, Gunkan, Nigiri, and Temaki.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the playful challenges and group size suggest it can be enjoyed by families as well as adults.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary; instructors guide you through each step.

How good are the views during the class?
The class boasts a spectacular backdrop of Mt. Fuji, enhancing the overall experience.

In short, the Sushi Factory -KIWAMI- offers a fun, scenic, and tasty way to try Japanese sushi-making, especially if you’re eager for an activity that combines learning, entertainment, and breathtaking scenery. While it may feel a bit gimmicky to some, many find it an enjoyable way to connect with Japan’s food culture in a relaxed setting. Perfect for those who want to create, taste, and capture the moment with friends or family in one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.