CHOYA UME STUDIO Hands-On Umeshu & Syrup Workshop

A Unique Japanese Flavor Experience in Kyoto
If you’re after an authentic taste of Japan’s culinary culture, the CHOYA UME Studio Hands-On Umeshu & Syrup Workshop offers a delightful way to engage directly with Japan’s famous ume fruit. Located in Kyoto, this intimate experience costs around $33 per person and lasts about an hour and a half, making it a manageable and memorable addition to your sightseeing day. Guided by a friendly English-speaking Ume Concierge, you’ll learn the art of crafting Umeshu (plum wine) and Ume syrup—both integral to Japanese cuisine and local traditions.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines learning and tasting. You get to sample a variety of over five kinds of ume syrups and five sugars, then select from more than 100 combinations to create your very own drink. Plus, the exclusive setting with a limited group size of 10 makes it feel special and personal. Lastly, you get to take home your custom-made Umeshu or Ume syrup—a tasty souvenir that’s also a gift of Japan’s ume culture.

However, a potential consideration is the lack of transportation or post-activity storage included, which could be important if you’re traveling light or have a tight schedule. Still, for those who want a hands-on, authentic experience that combines tasting, learning, and creating, this workshop is an excellent fit. It’s especially perfect if you love Japanese food, sake, whisky, or simply want a unique Kyoto memory that goes beyond standard sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Japanese Ume Culture: Learn directly from CHOYA, Japan’s leading Umeshu company.
• Hands-On Creativity: Make your own Umeshu and Ume syrup from over 100 combination options.
• Expert Guidance: Guided by an English-speaking Ume Concierge, making the process accessible even if you’re not fluent in Japanese.
• Tasting & Education: Sample a variety of ume syrups and Umeshu, plus gain insights into Japanese fermentation traditions.
• Limited Group Size: An exclusive experience with only 10 participants, ensuring personal attention.
• Memorable Souvenir: Take home your own crafted Umeshu or Ume syrup, beautifully packaged for travel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Workshop Experience

Location and Atmosphere
The workshop is held in a sophisticated, intimate setting within CHOYA shops, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship. With just 10 participants per session, you’ll find the atmosphere both relaxed and engaging. It’s a chance to step away from the crowds and dive into a niche corner of Japanese confectionery and beverage culture.

What to Expect During the Workshop
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your Ume Concierge—an expert guide who speaks fluent English and explains the history and significance of ume in Japan. You’ll start by tasting over five kinds of ume syrups and five types of sugar, gaining a taste for the different flavor profiles and learning how each component influences the final product.

Once familiarized with the options, you’re invited to choose your own blend—whether you prefer something sweet, tart, or somewhere in between. The process involves combining your selected ume syrup with sugar and other ingredients, then bottling your creation using special caps and boxes designed for international travel.

The tasting component is a highlight; many reviewers mention how delicious the Umeshu (plum wine) over 20 years old tastes, adding a layer of appreciation for Japan’s centuries-old fermentation techniques. The Ume syrup tasting allows you to explore the versatility of ume-flavored products beyond the alcoholic version.

Pricing and Value
At $33 per person, this workshop offers good value, especially considering the personalized instruction, extensive tasting, and the custom product you get to take home. The booklet provided summarizes everything learned, making it easy to replicate your favorites later. The inclusion of special packaging ensures your souvenirs are safe during travel.

Who Will Love It?
This experience is perfect for foodies, sake and whisky lovers, or anyone interested in Japanese tradition. It’s also great for curious travelers aged 19 and above, who want a tangible skill and a delicious memory of Kyoto. The fact that it’s available in English, with Chinese and Japanese guides, makes it accessible for international guests.

Possible Drawbacks
While the workshop is rich in content, it doesn’t include hotel pickup or post-creation storage, which might be inconvenient if you’re staying far from the venue or have limited luggage space. Also, if you’re not a fan of alcohol or are under 19, you’ll only be able to participate in making ume syrup.

The Itinerary and Detailed Breakdown

Arrival and Welcome
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into a cozy, well-organized space within CHOYA shops. The atmosphere feels both polished yet inviting, setting the tone for an educational and fun experience.

Introduction to Ume and Its Cultural Significance
Your guide offers a brief overview of Japanese ume culture, explaining why ume is so cherished in Japan—used not just in drinks but also in cooking, medicine, and even beauty products. This contextual background heightens appreciation for your hands-on activity.

Tasting and Selection
Next, you’ll sample over five different ume syrups—each with distinct flavor profiles—and compare five types of sugar. This sensory exploration helps you understand how different ingredients influence the taste, aroma, and texture of your final product.

Mixing and Bottling
Guided step-by-step, you’ll blend your preferred ingredients, then seal your bottles with special caps and boxes designed for safe travel. You’ll also receive a booklet summarizing the process, perfect for recreating your drink at home.

Final Tasting and Departure
Before leaving, you get to taste a 20-year-old Umeshu crafted by CHOYA, which many visitors find astonishingly smooth and flavorful. Complimented by your own custom creation, it’s a satisfying end to the workshop.

Authenticity and Educational Value

This workshop is more than just a crafting session; it’s an immersion into Japanese umeboshi (pickled plum) culture and fermentation traditions. The guidance of a knowledgeable Ume Concierge ensures you understand not just how to make Umeshu, but also why it’s such a respected aspect of Japanese cuisine.

You’ll learn about the different types of ume and how they’re harvested and processed. The tasting of aged Umeshu emphasizes the importance of patience, craftsmanship, and quality ingredients—values deeply embedded in Japanese food culture.

For those intrigued by Japanese beverages, this workshop offers an authentic insight that you can’t easily find elsewhere, especially with the personalized, hands-on approach.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re interested in Japanese food, sake, or whisky, this workshop provides a fun, tangible way to deepen that interest. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy participating in local crafts and tasting sessions. The limited group size makes it perfect for those wanting a more intimate, educational environment.

Also, if you’re staying in Kyoto and want a meaningful, memorable souvenir that’s both delicious and culturally significant, this workshop ticks all those boxes.

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The Sum Up

The CHOYA UME Studio Hands-On Workshop offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s ume heritage through a practical, enjoyable, and tasty activity. For around $33, you get expert guidance, tastings, and the chance to craft your own Umeshu or Ume syrup, all in a refined setting that’s perfect for small groups. It’s a rare opportunity to create a personalized beverage rooted in Japanese tradition, which you can take home and share with friends or keep as a special keepsake.

This experience suits food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to learn a traditional craft in an authentic setting. While it doesn’t include transportation or storage, the value of the knowledge, tastings, and memories more than makes up for it. It’s a clever choice for those looking to add a hands-on culinary dimension to their Kyoto trip.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for children or teenagers?
Guests aged 19 and under can participate in making Ume syrup but are not allowed to make Umeshu, which contains alcohol.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity lasts about an hour and a half, making it a manageable addition to your day.

What languages are available for guidance?
The workshop is conducted in English, with Chinese and Japanese materials also available.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Yes, reservations can be made up to two months ahead through the website, allowing you to plan ahead.

What is included in the price?
You’ll receive tasting experiences, instruction on how to make Umeshu and Ume syrup, a booklet, and your own crafted product in a special box.

Are there any extra costs during the workshop?
No, all activities and tastings are included in the $33 fee; extras like post-creation storage or shipping are not included.

Is transportation provided?
No, the workshop does not include pick-up or drop-off; you’ll need to make your own way to the venue.

Can I take my libation home?
Yes, you’ll receive specially packaged bottles and boxes designed for travel, so you can bring home your homemade Umeshu or syrup.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is fine; just avoid bare feet or anything that might hinder your participation.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting makes it easy to meet others, or you can enjoy a more private experience if you book for yourself.

This workshop blends culinary fun, cultural insight, and a bit of craftsmanship, making it a delightful addition to your Kyoto visit. It’s a fantastic way to create a personalized, edible souvenir and gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese ume traditions—something truly different from typical sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: