Home Made Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class

Discover Hiroshima Through Its Flavors: The Homemade Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class

If you’re craving a genuine taste of Japanese life right in Hiroshima, this Onigiri and Matcha Cooking Class offers a wonderful blend of culture, cuisine, and warm local hospitality. For just under $90, you’ll spend about one and a half hours with friendly hosts, learning how to craft two types of onigiri—those iconic rice balls loved nationwide—and enjoying freshly made miso soup and matcha tea. The class is conveniently located near Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, just a five-minute walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.

What really makes this experience shine is the opportunity to connect with local mothers who share their kitchen, stories, and love for traditional food. The approachable recipes are suitable for all ages—perfect if you’re traveling with family or solo—plus, the inclusion of English-speaking hosts makes communication smooth. Two standout features are the chance to try making fresh egg yolk on rice balls and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that invites genuine conversation.

One thing to consider is that the tour is small, with a maximum of six travelers. While this ensures a personalized experience, it does mean booking in advance—about three weeks ahead—is recommended. If you’re interested in authentic, hands-on cultural activities that leave you with skills to recreate Japanese flavors at home, this class will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn the art of making onigiri directly from Hiroshima locals.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children, with a dedicated toy area for kids to play.
• Cultural Insights: Enjoy learning about manners of the tea ceremony (Sadou) along with matcha preparation.
• Inclusive Menu Options: Vegetarian and vegan options are being prepared; allergies are accommodated if informed in advance.
• Convenient Location: Near Peace Park, accessible by public transport or a short walk from Hiroshima Station.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch, matcha tea, wagashi sweets, and gratuities, making it a comprehensive, affordable culture.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

Located just a five-minute walk from Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, the class’s proximity to key sights makes it an excellent addition to a day of sightseeing. Meeting at Guitar Top1-chme-1-3 Sakaimachi, the group is typically small, with a maximum of six participants, ensuring personal attention. Many reviewers appreciate how accessible it is from Hiroshima Station—about 12 minutes via taxi or 26 minutes on foot—making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The class begins at 10:30 am, giving you a chance to start your day with a relaxed, immersive activity. Expect to spend about 90 minutes with your hosts, who are experienced and friendly, often speaking excellent English. You’ll be guided through the entire process of making two different onigiri flavors: tuna mayonnaise and shrimp tempura—both popular choices that highlight different aspects of Japanese cuisine.

One highlight is getting to hold freshly harvested rice while it’s still hot, offering a sensory connection to the food you’re preparing. Children are very welcome, and a designated play area keeps little ones engaged while the adults focus on cooking.

Making the Food

The process is straightforward and designed for all skill levels. If you’re curious about trying a fresh egg yolk on your rice balls—a traditional custom—they’re happy to show you how, provided you ask during reservation. Vegetarian and vegan options are in development, and if you have allergies, it’s best to inform the organizers beforehand.

Participants will also learn how to make miso soup served in a traditional chawan bowl, sharing recipes that you can recreate at home. The class emphasizes gratefulness—enjoying simple, everyday blessings—through making and eating the dishes together.

Matcha and Wagashi

The experience doesn’t end with rice balls. You’ll also learn how to prepare matcha tea and enjoy it alongside Japanese wagashi sweets. The hosts will teach you about the manners of the tea ceremony (Sadou), helping you appreciate this serene aspect of Japanese culture. Many reviews mention how fun and educational this part of the class is, with some noting that they felt “more Japanese than Japanese” after the lesson.

The Food and Atmosphere

Guests praise the deliciousness of the food—the onigiri are described as both tasty and visually appealing. Angela remarked, “Lots of learning, laughing, and good food,” while Lesley called the experience “incredible,” highlighting the warm hospitality and excellent English spoken by her hosts. The relaxed setting and engaging hosts make this more than just a cooking class; it’s a chance to make meaningful connections.

Price and Value

At $89.07 per person, the cost covers two types of onigiri, miso soup, matcha, wagashi, gratuities, and restroom access. Considering the intimate experience, personalized attention, and cultural insights, the price offers good value—especially since you leave with new skills and delicious food to recreate at home.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This class is ideal for families, solo travelers, and anyone interested in Japanese culture beyond the usual sights. If you love food as a way to connect with locals and want a hands-on activity that’s fun and educational, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy learning traditional manners and tasting authentic dishes in a friendly environment.

The Sum Up

This Hiroshima-based onigiri and matcha cooking class offers much more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to connect with local people, learn authentic recipes, and appreciate Japanese food culture in a relaxed setting. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the hosts’ warmth makes everyone feel at home. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, this experience provides both practical skills and lasting memories.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious activity that fits comfortably into a day of exploring Hiroshima, this class is a standout choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and really immerse themselves in local traditions and flavors.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Transportation to the meeting point is not included, but the location is near public transit options like Hiroshima Station and Peace Park.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to six travelers are allowed per class, which helps ensure a personalized experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are very welcome, and there’s a designated area with toys to keep them entertained.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Vegetarian and vegan menus are being prepared. It’s best to ask when booking if you have specific dietary needs.

What is the duration of the class?
The class lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers two types of onigiri, miso soup, matcha, wagashi sweets, gratuities, and use of the restroom.

Is there any cooking involved in making matcha?
Yes, you will learn how to prepare matcha tea and enjoy it with Japanese sweets.

Do I need to speak Japanese to join?
No, the hosts speak excellent English, making the experience accessible to all.

What if I have allergies?
Please inform the organizers in advance so they can accommodate your dietary needs.

This class offers an authentic slice of Hiroshima life, a chance to learn, taste, and connect in a warm, inviting setting. Whether you’re a foodie, culture buff, or simply curious about Japan’s culinary traditions, this experience is a delightful way to spend part of your trip.