Japanese dried-type Sweets ”Ohigashi” making

If you’re visiting Kyoto and have a love for culinary crafts or traditional Japanese sweets, this tour offering a hands-on experience of making Ohigashi is worth considering. For just $11 per person, you can spend about an hour learning how to craft these delicate, dried sweets made from 100% Wasanbon, a high-quality, traditional Japanese sugar. Located near Gojo Station, this experience is accessible, straightforward, and packed with insights into Japan’s sweet-making heritage.

What makes this activity particularly appealing is the chance to create something both adorable and edible—your own custom-shaped Ohigashi, using handsome wooden molds. Plus, you get to taste the freshly made sweets, which bring out the subtle, mellow flavor of Wasanbon that’s unlike anything you’ll find in store-bought candies. The experience is intimate, fun, and offers a glimpse into Japan’s artisanal confectionery tradition.

On the flip side, it’s important to note that the experience is conducted mostly in Japanese, so if you’re not familiar with the language, some guidance might be limited, though the core process is clear. Also, the session lasts around 50 minutes, so it’s perfect for a quick cultural fix but not necessarily a full-day activity. It’s ideal for those curious about Japanese sweets or looking for a unique souvenir-making experience.

If you enjoy hands-on culinary activities and want an authentic taste of Kyoto’s traditional sweets, this tour fits nicely into your itinerary. It’s especially suited for small groups, families, and anyone eager to see the meticulous craft behind Japan’s wagashi (Japanese sweets).

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Making Ohigashi with 100% Wasanbon offers a rare opportunity to taste and understand a key element of traditional Japanese confectionery.
• Customizable Shapes: Choose from cute wooden molds to personalize your sweets—adding a fun, creative touch.
• Freshly Made Sweets: Enjoy the unique flavor and texture of sweets made right in front of you, which is hard to replicate with store-bought options.
• Affordable and Accessible: At $11, this provides significant value for a cultural and culinary experience.
• Limited Language Support: The activity is primarily in Japanese, so some language barrier may exist; check if English translation can be provided.
• Short but Sweet: The entire process takes just under an hour, making it easy to fit into a busy Kyoto sightseeing schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ohigashi Making Experience

Location and Accessibility

The workshop is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from Exit 1 of Gojo Station on the Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line. The entrance faces Gojo-dori, making it easy to find. Note that the building has no elevator, so stairs are involved, which might be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues. The workshop operates between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with reservations recommended but flexible.

The Itinerary

Your experience begins with a brief introduction to traditional Japanese sweets—specifically, the significance of Wasanbon—followed by a step-by-step demonstration of how to craft Ohigashi. While the process is straightforward, it is guided by an instructor who explains the importance of using pure Wasanbon and what makes these sweets special. The highlight is clearly the opportunity to shape the sweets using your chosen wooden mold.

Participants will have the chance to select their favorite mold—from cute animals to traditional shapes—and then proceed to melt and shape the sugar. The process involves handling fluffy, smooth sugar that melts in your mouth, offering a sensory delight and a tangible connection to Japan’s confectionery traditions.

The Making Process

The core of the activity is making dried Japanese sweets from Wasanbon, a sugar known for its mellow, refined flavor. You’ll learn how to handle the sugar, shape it effortlessly, and create your own sweets, which are without any added color. For an additional 200 JPY (about $1.50), you can add some colorful accents, which can make your sweets more playful and vibrant.

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Taste and Takeaway

Once your sweets are shaped and finished, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy eating them on-site or to take them home as a sweet souvenir. The freshly made Ohigashi are soft, fluffy, and melt-in-the-mouth, offering a taste of Japan’s artisanal craftsmanship that you won’t get from mass-produced candies.

Cost and Extras

The main experience costs $11, which includes the process of making and tasting your sweets. Extras like a certificate of participation (300 JPY) or Tatedashi Matcha (500 JPY) are available if you wish to extend your experience. The optional adding of color is priced at 200 JPY, perfect if you want a more vibrant finished product.

Reviews and Authenticity

Though only two reviews are available, the overall rating of 4.5/5 suggests that participants find it worthwhile. One reviewer gave a perfect score, highlighting the fun and educational nature of the activity, while others appreciated the opportunity to see and taste Japan’s traditional confectionery.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The primary appeal of this tour is its hands-on approach to a cultural craft. Making Ohigashi with 100% Wasanbon emphasizes the high quality of ingredients that define Japanese sweets. The tactile process of shaping sugar in cute molds enhances both the enjoyment and the souvenir value.

Plus, the personal touch—selecting your Mold and creating your sweets—turns this from a simple demonstration into a memorable, personalized experience. For those interested in Japanese culture, food, or crafts, this is a perfect way to connect more deeply with Kyoto’s artisanal traditions.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While charming, the experience does have some limitations. The language barrier could pose a challenge if no English translation is available, though the process is visual enough that non-Japanese speakers can follow along. Also, since it’s a relatively quick activity, it might not satisfy those looking for a longer, more in-depth workshop.

Travelers with mobility restrictions should note the lack of an elevator, and it’s wise to reserve ahead, especially during busy periods, to secure a spot. Lastly, the activity is primarily in Japanese, so some guidance might be less detailed for non-Japanese speakers.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for culinary enthusiasts, families with children, or those curious about Japanese sweets. It’s perfect for a quick, meaningful cultural activity that produces a tasty souvenir. It also suits travelers who appreciate hands-on activities and want to see the craftsmanship behind Kyoto’s wagashi.

Final Thoughts

For just over ten dollars, you gain a delightful taste of Japan’s confectionery heritage and the satisfaction of creating your own sweets. The process is straightforward, fun, and offers a tangible connection to Kyoto’s traditions. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft lover, or just eager for a memorable experience, this tour provides value in both education and enjoyment.

While it’s not a comprehensive workshop, it’s an authentic, engaging, and sweet introduction to the artistry of Japanese dried sweets. The opportunity to taste your freshly made Ohigashi adds a special touch. It’s an experience that fits well into a busy sightseeing day and leaves you with a small, edible souvenir and a story to tell.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, especially if they enjoy hands-on activities. Children sitting on their parents’ laps are free of charge, making it a family-friendly option.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience takes about 50 minutes—starting with an explanation, making the sweets, and enjoying or taking home your creations.

Do I need to speak Japanese?
While the activity is mainly conducted in Japanese, visual instructions make it accessible. You might find some English translation available if requested, but it’s best to prepare with basic understanding or patience.

Can I add color to my sweets?
Yes, for an extra 200 JPY, you can make colorful Ohigashi. This is a fun way to customize your sweets further.

Is there any age restriction?
Children under 2 years old who sit on their parents’ laps can participate for free. Otherwise, it’s suitable for most ages.

What’s included in the price?
The $11 fee covers the complete process of making and tasting your Japanese dried sweets. Extras like certificates or matcha tastings are available for additional fees.

What should I wear or prepare?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Since the process involves handling sugar that melts easily, be prepared for a sticky, fun experience. No special attire is required.

If you’re eager to try your hand at Japanese sweets and learn about the traditional use of Wasanbon, this short but sweet workshop offers both learning and tasting opportunities that will leave you with a genuine taste of Kyoto’s confectionery artistry.

You can check availability for your dates here: