Tokyo Ramen Making for Ramen Enthusiasts with an Instructor

An Honest Look at Tokyo Ramen Making for Ramen Enthusiasts with an Instructor

If you’re passionate about authentic Japanese ramen and want to go beyond the typical tourist experience, this 8-hour hands-on class in Tokyo offers a rare opportunity. Led by Saburo Ishigooka, a chef whose ramen has earned accolades like Japan’s Top 100 Ramen and Michelin Bib Gourmand awards, this experience isn’t just about slurping noodles—it’s about mastering the craft. The class costs around $700 per person and includes not only the practical techniques but also a tasting of your own creations, making it an immersive day for serious food lovers.

What we loved most is Saburo’s dedication to quality—using only additive-free ingredients—and the detailed, step-by-step instructions that demystify the art of ramen-making. The chance to ask questions directly to a renowned chef adds a personalized touch many cooking classes lack. Another highlight is the focus on making two types of ramen, which broadens your understanding of regional styles and flavor profiles.

A potential consideration is that this isn’t a casual, quick lesson—expect to dedicate a full day, with serious attention to detail. If you’re seeking a laid-back tour or just a quick taste, this might feel a bit intensive. But for those who want authenticity over speed, especially travelers who dream of opening their own ramen shop or simply love learning about Japanese cuisine at a deeper level, this class is ideal.

This experience is best suited for culinary enthusiasts, serious ramen fans, or those with a strong interest in Japanese food culture. If you’re craving a true, hands-on journey into ramen craftsmanship, you’ll find this class to be well worth the investment.

Key Points

• Authentic Expertise: Led by Saburo Ishigooka, a chef celebrated for beautiful, delicious ramen.
• Hands-On Learning: You’ll make two types of ramen—seafood and chicken—covering broth, tare, flavored oils, and toppings.
• Focused Experience: Designed for serious learners, not casual travelers; one day of intensive technique.
• Includes Tasting: You’ll enjoy your own freshly made ramen, plus bottled water, alcohol, and essentials like an apron and tenugui.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 5 travelers) ensure personalized attention and direct interaction.
• Cost and Value: At $700, it’s a significant spend, but for dedicated ramen lovers, the depth of knowledge and authentic experience justify the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Ramen Making Experience in Tokyo

Setting and Location

The class begins in a conveniently located spot at 1-chome Umegaoka, Setagaya City, Tokyo, a neighborhood offering a more local vibe compared to the more touristy districts. The meeting point is straightforward, and since the class ends back at the same spot, you can easily plan your day around it. While private transportation isn’t included, the location is accessible by Tokyo’s efficient subway network, making it easy to reach even if you’re staying in the city center.

What You Will Learn

This isn’t just a quick demonstration. Saburo emphasizes comprehensive, practical techniques that’ll stay with you long after the class ends. You’ll learn how to prepare the tare (seasoning base), a crucial element for flavor, and the dashi (broth)—which defines the richness and depth of your ramen. We loved the way Saburo explained the importance of using only additive-free ingredients, which elevates the final product and aligns with the best traditional practices.

Participants will also make flavored oil, adding complexity to the ramen, and craft toppings like tender chashu pork. Saburo’s flexibility allows for custom requests, such as seafood or chicken ramen, giving you a taste of regional variations. You’ll see firsthand how each element contributes to the overall harmony of a bowl of ramen.

The Instruction Method

Saburo’s teaching style is clear and patient. He walks you through each step, offering tips and tricks garnered from years of experience. The class is not a casual demonstration—it’s hands-on, with each participant actively involved. We appreciated the opportunity to ask questions at any stage, making the experience both educational and engaging.

The Meal and Extras

After the cooking session, you’ll sit down to enjoy your own freshly prepared ramen. The class includes bottled water and alcoholic beverages, which many attendees found to add to a convivial atmosphere. Aprons and tenugui (traditional Japanese towels) are provided, so you’ll look the part while working and can take home a small souvenir. The focus on quality ingredients and skill ensures that the ramen you taste is better than most restaurant versions you might find, especially outside Japan.

Price and Value

At $700, this class isn’t cheap, but considering the expertise of Saburo and the depth of knowledge gained, it offers excellent value for serious foodies. Compared to attending a full-fledged ramen school in Japan—costing around 10,000 USD and taking a week—this course delivers a concentrated dose of authentic techniques in a single day. For travelers with limited time, it’s a smart way to bring a piece of Japan’s culinary mastery home.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of five travelers, the class stays intimate. This means personal attention and a more relaxed environment. You’ll be encouraged to ask questions, experiment, and understand not just the “how” but the “why” behind each step. We found this to be a major plus, especially for those eager to truly learn and perfect their craft.

Overall Experience

This isn’t a sightseeing tour with a cooking component; it’s an immersive culinary experience. The emphasis on authenticity, technique, and quality ingredients makes it stand out from more superficial classes. The fact that Saburo’s ramen has been honored with awards speaks volumes about the skill level, and participating in this class can genuinely inspire your future culinary pursuits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a serious ramen lover, aspiring restaurant owner, or fan of Japanese cuisine eager to learn authentic techniques, this class will satisfy your curiosity and skill-building needs. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind investing a full day in learning, especially since the class focuses solely on ramen techniques—no distractions. If you want a deep dive into ramen craftsmanship from a chef whose reputation is built on beautiful, delicious bowls, this experience is a solid choice.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, short on time, or prefer more casual, quick culinary experiences, this might be more than you need. It’s also not suitable for those seeking a sightseeing tour with a light cooking element; it’s all about technique, flavor, and craftsmanship.

Practical Details and Tips

• Start time: 9:00 am, so plan to arrive a bit early.
• Duration: About 8 hours—expect a full day of hands-on work and tasting.
• Included: Ramen lunch, water, alcohol, apron, tenugui.
• Not included: Private transportation—be sure to plan your route via subway or taxi.
• Group size: Up to 5 travelers, ensuring individual guidance.
• Booking: Confirmations are sent within 48 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.

FAQs

What is the main focus of this ramen class?
It’s a serious, hands-on course designed to teach you how to make two types of ramen from scratch, including broth, tare, flavored oil, and toppings, led by a top chef.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
While no prior experience is required, the class is geared toward those who want to master authentic techniques. It’s more intensive than casual cooking classes.

How many people will be in the class?
A maximum of 5 travelers ensures personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions.

What does the price include?
The fee covers all ingredients, ramen lunch, bottled water, alcohol, an apron, and a tenugui souvenir.

Can I request a specific type of ramen?
Yes, the standard options are seafood and chicken ramen, but requests are accommodated when possible.

Where does the class take place?
It starts and ends at a location in Setagaya City, Tokyo, accessible by public transit.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This ramen-making class offers a rare, in-depth opportunity to learn authentic Japanese techniques from a chef celebrated for his beautiful, flavorful bowls. It’s best suited for dedicated food lovers ready to commit a full day to craftsmanship, and who value personalized instruction and quality ingredients. While the price is significant, it reflects the level of expertise and authenticity on offer—an investment in a true culinary adventure.

If you’re eager to take home more than just souvenirs and want to master the art of ramen, this experience could be one of the most memorable and rewarding parts of your visit to Tokyo. It’s a rare chance to connect with Japanese food culture in a genuine, hands-on way that few other experiences can match.