Aichi Prefecture offers more than just historic sites and modern cities; it’s a fantastic place to get hands-on with local culture through workshops and classes. Whether you’re eager to learn authentic Japanese cooking, explore craft brewing, or connect with local residents, Aichi has options that deliver real experiences. Among these, the Nagoya Super Market Tour & Home Cooking Class with Akiko stands out for its authentic approach, giving you a glimpse into everyday Japanese life. The Guiged Brewing Tour and Workshop offers a behind-the-scenes look at local craft beer, while the Private Nagoya-Style Japanese Cooking Class in Kasugai provides a more intimate culinary experience. If you want to learn about local flavors, each of these experiences offers something special.
If you’re trying to decide which workshop fits your interests, consider what kind of experience you want most. Are you after a full immersion into Japanese cuisine, a taste of local brewing culture, or a private cooking session? Below, we break down each option with details and practical tips to help you choose.
1. Nagoya Super Market Tour & Home Cooking Class with a Local, Akiko
This 3.5-hour experience combines a guided tour of a local supermarket with a home-cooked meal, led by Akiko, a warm and knowledgeable host. You’ll start at Kachigawa station, where Akiko greets you and takes you shopping in a market packed with fresh, regional ingredients. She’ll explain the significance of each item, giving you insight into Japanese food culture. After shopping, you’ll head to her kitchen to prepare classic Nagoya dishes, including red miso stew, shrimp tempura, and fried chicken in Nagoya style. Plus, you’ll learn how to make dashi stock from scratch, an essential foundation of Japanese cuisine.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to buy ingredients to take home, plus the chance to cook alongside a local in her home. Reviewers consistently praise Akiko for her friendliness and patience, with one noting, “She was absolutely wonderful in teaching us how to cook!” The small group size (up to six) ensures a personal experience. The cost is around $116 per person, which is reasonable considering you get both a supermarket tour and a home-cooked meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want an authentic, hands-on look at Nagoya cuisine and the chance to learn recipes that you can recreate at home.
2. Guiged Brewing Tour and Workshop Local Lunch
For those interested in craft beer and local brewing culture, this 3-hour tour offers a chance to visit a boutique brewery in Okada, led by a passionate local brewer. The tour begins at Asakura Station, where you meet your guide and stroll through the streets of Okada, exploring local shops and the neighborhood’s character. The highlight is the OKD Kominka Brewing Brewery, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the brewery makes its local craft beers. The owner, raised in Okada, shares stories about the brewing process and the community.
After the brewery visit, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring local ingredients at a restaurant with 16 taps, including local craft brews and international selections. Note that beer tasting is not available for those driving or under 20. The tour is well-paced, with plenty of time to appreciate both history and flavors. The total price is around $109, which offers good value considering the beer tastings and the guided street tour included.
Reviewers love the personal touch of the local brewer and the chance to enjoy a hearty meal with local beers. The experience suits beer enthusiasts and those curious about regional food and drink.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beer lovers eager to learn about small-batch brewing and enjoy a local lunch in a relaxed setting.
3. Private Nagoya-Style Japanese Cooking Class in Kasugai with Akiko
If you prefer a more intimate, personalized cooking experience, this private class with Akiko in Kasugai is ideal. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn to prepare Nagoya-style dishes like red miso stew, shrimp tempura, and onigiri (rice balls). Akiko emphasizes hands-on involvement, guiding you through making dashi stock, a fundamental element of Japanese cooking. You can choose to have lunch or dinner, fitting this experience comfortably into your schedule.
The small group setting (or privately with just your party) makes for an engaging and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want to ask questions and connect with a local. The $110 cost includes all ingredients and the meal you prepare. Reviewers praise Akiko for her warm hospitality and detailed instructions, describing the experience as a “fantastic way to connect with Japanese culture.”
This class is best suited for travelers seeking a personalized culinary experience and those interested in learning traditional techniques in a home setting.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a private or small-group cooking lesson that focuses on authentic Nagoya dishes.
$110.00 per person
How to Choose
Looking at these options, think about your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re eager to learn recipes and cook in a home environment, the Nagoya Home Cooking Class with Akiko offers a comprehensive, authentic experience. For beer enthusiasts curious about local brewing, the Guiged Brewing Tour provides a behind-the-scenes look plus a hearty local lunch. If you prefer a more personalized, private session in a relaxed setting, the Private Nagoya-Style Cooking Class is ideal.
Consider your time availability and interests in food versus drink. All tours are suitable for different tastes: some focus on home cooking, others on local brewing culture. Remember to book early, especially for private options, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Aichi Prefecture is a rich destination for those who like to get their hands dirty in the kitchen or learn about local beverages. The Nagoya Super Market Tour & Home Cooking Class is great for travelers who want a full culture, while the Guiged Brewing Tour appeals to craft beer fans and curious explorers alike. For a more personal touch, the Private Nagoya-Style Cooking Class offers a relaxed, tailored experience that leaves you with new skills and stories to tell.
Whatever your choice, booking these experiences early guarantees a spot in these popular, authentic workshops. They’re a fantastic way to connect with local culture and bring home more than just souvenirs — memories and skills you can recreate long after your trip ends.