Strengthen the immunity!! Making miso in Japanese old house.

Making Miso in a Traditional Kyoto Old House: A Hands-On Wellness Experience

If you’re searching for a unique and meaningful activity in Kyoto, this miso-making experience offers a perfect blend of culture, health, and environmental consciousness. For just over $46, you’ll spend about an hour in a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese residence, learning how to craft your own miso—the staple fermented seasoning that flavors countless Japanese dishes. Guided by Naomi, a passionate health professional and chef, you’ll enjoy a personalized, small-group experience (maximum 6 travelers) that promises not only fun but insights into wellness and sustainable living.

Two aspects of this tour stand out: first, Naomi’s warm and thorough explanations make the process accessible even for beginners. Second, the eco-friendly twist—using tofu refuse (okara)—shows how small actions can have a meaningful environmental impact. One potential consideration? The fermentation process takes over three months, so you’ll get to taste your creation only later, but you’ll also leave with about 500 grams of handmade miso to enjoy at home.

This experience suits curious travelers who love hands-on cultural activities, value health and sustainability, and enjoy tasting authentic Japanese flavors. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond sightseeing and understand the deeper aspects of Japanese cuisine and wellness.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Activity: Making miso in a traditional Kyoto old house provides an immersive look into Japanese culinary heritage.
• Eco-Friendly Focus: The use of okara (soy pulp) as a sustainable, nutrient-rich ingredient highlights environmentally conscious practices.
• Health and Wellness: Naomi’s insights on improving gut health and leading a wellness-oriented lifestyle add a beneficial health dimension.
• Taste and Takeaway: You’ll sample your homemade miso and other treats like miso soup and okara mochi, and bring home 500g of your own miso.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 6 travelers, expect personalized guidance and a relaxed, engaging environment.
• Value for Money: At $46.15, this class offers a well-rounded, educational, and delicious experience that connects you with Japanese tradition and sustainability.

An In-Depth Look at the Miso-Making Experience in Kyoto

The Setting: A Traditional Japanese Old Residence

The tour begins at Kaze no Waon, an atmospheric old house in Kyoto’s Ukyo Ward. Walking into this historic structure, you’re transported back in time, surrounded by wooden beams and tatami mats that breathe authenticity and history. This setting elevates the experience, turning simple miso-making into a cultural journey. For many, this ambiance makes the class feel special—more than just a cooking lesson, it’s a small glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

The Guides and Their Approach

Naomi, the guiding force behind this experience, combines her extensive background as a massage therapist, tea instructor, and cooking teacher. Her passion for wellness and sustainability shines through in her explanation of each step. She takes the time to make sure everyone understands the benefits of miso and how it contributes to a healthy gut. Participants consistently comment on her friendly, patient manner and her ability to make complex processes seem easy.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

Arrival and Introduction:
Once everyone is seated comfortably, Naomi explains the health advantages of miso, emphasizing its nutritional value and role in digestive health. She also discusses how fermentation can boost mental well-being—a holistic approach that appeals to health-conscious travelers.

Making the Miso:
The core activity involves creating okara miso—a simpler, quicker version compared to traditional methods that use whole soybeans. Naomi guides you through soaking dried soybeans (or using tofu refuse), boiling, mashing, and mixing with koji seasoning, a natural fermenting agent. This eco-friendly method is not only accessible but also aligns with sustainable practices, reducing waste by using soy pulp (okara), which is often discarded as industrial waste.

Tasting and Socializing:
After your miso is ready, Naomi invites you to sample several items: miso soup, fresh miso paste, and okara mochi. These tastings are both delicious and educational, illustrating how miso enhances Japanese cuisine. You’ll also get to enjoy the taste of the homemade miso, even though it still needs months to fully ferment.

Take-home Miso:
One of the highlights is leaving with about 500 grams of your own handmade miso. Naomi carefully packs it for transport, so you can enjoy your culinary creation long after the class ends, making this a practical souvenir that extends the experience.

The Experience Duration and Group Size

The class lasts roughly one hour, making it suitable even for tight itineraries. With a maximum of 6 travelers, the intimate setting fosters a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and everyone gets personalized attention. The small group size also enhances the social element—sharing stories and tips with fellow travelers.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The meeting point at Kaze no Waon is conveniently located near public transportation, easing access for visitors. Confirmation is quick, typically within 48 hours, and the booking is highly recommended, especially since the experience is popular (booked on average 8 days in advance). The cost of $46.15 per person provides good value, considering the hands-on activity, tasting, and the souvenir miso.

What Past Participants Say

Reviewers consistently praise the experience. One described it as “wonderful,” highlighting Naomi’s passion and the peaceful, hands-on nature of the activity. The opportunity to make delicious, healthful miso while learning about wellness and sustainability resonates strongly with visitors seeking meaningful cultural activities.

Potential Drawbacks

While the process of fermentation takes over three months, the immediate tasting experience is limited to the fresh samples. However, the satisfaction of creating something authentic and eco-friendly usually outweighs this delay. Also, the class is relatively short, so those expecting a deep dive into fermentation science might find it somewhat brief—but it’s well-paced for most.

Why This Tour Is a Great Fit

This miso-making experience is ideal for health-conscious travelers, culinary enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Japanese culture beyond the usual tourist spots. If you love hands-on activities, sustainable practices, and tasting local flavors, you’ll find this class engaging and rewarding. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy learning practical skills they can use at home, like making their own miso, which is both delicious and nutritious.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Experience?

If you want a personalized, culturally rich activity that combines culinary skill, wellness, and environmental awareness, this tour checks all boxes. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Japan’s food heritage in an intimate setting and leave with a tangible product—your own homemade miso. Perfect for small groups, solo travelers, or couples looking for a meaningful, memorable Kyoto experience.

While it doesn’t include a long fermentation period, the taste test and the takeaway miso make it well worth the time. The setting in a traditional Japanese house adds a layer of authenticity, making it more than just a cooking class—it’s a mini cultural retreat. Whether you’re a foodie, eco-enthusiast, or wellness seeker, this experience offers genuine value and a chance to create a tasty, healthful souvenir.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Naomi explains each step clearly, making it accessible for people with no prior experience in miso-making or cooking.

How long does it take?
The class itself lasts about one hour, and you will make about 500 grams of miso to take home. The fermentation will take over three months, but you can enjoy your fresh miso as soon as it’s ready.

Can I join with friends or family?
Yes, the small group size (up to 6) makes it perfect for friends, couples, or solo travelers who want a personalized experience.

Is the experience eco-friendly?
Yes. The use of okara (tofu refuse) promotes sustainability by utilizing a waste product that’s normally discarded, making this a conscious choice.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a hands-on activity. Expect some possibly flour or soy pulp, so dress accordingly.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
The dishes are gluten-free, MSG-free, and vegan options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tasting.

What is included in the price?
You get the guided class, tasting of miso-related items, and a container with about 500g of your handmade miso to take home.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed, but if the weather is poor, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Bookings are typically made at least 8 days in advance, either directly through the tour provider or via the linked booking site.

This miso-making tour offers more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a chance to connect with Japanese traditions, embrace sustainability, and enjoy the satisfying process of creating something nourishing from scratch. Perfect for curious travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Japanese cuisine, health, and culture in a cozy, authentic setting.