Japanese Sweets Ohigashi making with Tatedashi Matcha

Japanese Sweets Ohigashi Making with Tatedashi Matcha: A Hands-On Cultural Treat in Kyoto

When we think of Japan, images of delicate sweets and refined tea ceremonies often come to mind. This experience, offered in Kyoto’s Honshu region, brings those images to life in a fun and approachable way. For just $14 per person, you can spend around 50 minutes crafting your own traditional Japanese dried sweets—called Ohigashi—using exquisite Wasanbon sugar, then enjoy a calming Tatedashi Matcha. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a taste of Japan’s sweet-making heritage in a cozy, welcoming setting.

What we love most is the focus on 100% Wasanbon, a high-quality sugar that’s mellow and melts effortlessly, giving your sweets a unique flavor you simply won’t find in mass-produced confections. Plus, the creative freedom to choose your wooden mold shape adds a playful element that makes the experience memorable. On the downside, the experience is conducted during business hours (10:00–17:00), so planning ahead is essential if you want to fit it into your day. This tour suits those interested in Japan’s culinary traditions, especially if you enjoy hands-on activities, cute crafts, and a peaceful tea break.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Make Ohigashi using Wasanbon, a traditional Japanese sugar prized for its mellow sweetness.
• Creative Customization: Choose your favorite wooden mold to shape your sweets, adding a personal touch.
• Fresh Flavors: Enjoy the taste of freshly made sweets, which are warm, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth.
• Optional Color: For an extra 200 JPY, you can add color to your sweets for a more playful presentation.
• Cultural Insight: The experience includes a brief explanation of Japanese sweets and their significance.
• Relaxing Matcha: Savor Tatedashi Matcha, a smooth, fluffy green tea that complements the sweets perfectly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

The experience takes place in Kyoto, specifically just a one-minute walk from Exit 1 of Gojo Station on the Subway Karasuma Line. The store’s entrance faces Gojo-dori, making it easy to find. While the walk isn’t far, it’s worth noting that the building has no elevator—stairs are involved, so travelers with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

The Itinerary

The activity starts with a brief introduction to Japanese traditional sweets—a helpful overview that sets the tone for a deeper appreciation of Ohigashi. The guide explains how Wasanbon is made and its role in Japanese confectionery, which enhances the experience for those interested in culinary history.

Next, we move on to the actual sweets-making. You pick your preferred wooden mold shape, which adds a playful element. Then, you’ll mix and shape your dried sweets from 100% Wasanbon sugar. The process is straightforward but requires a bit of patience and attention to detail, making it perfect for beginners. The sweets are made without any added color—unless you opt for the extra 200 JPY to make them colorful—which keeps the focus on the natural beauty of the sugar.

As you work, your guide offers insights into the significance of the shapes and ingredients, helping you connect the activity with broader Japanese culture. You’ll have some photo opportunities to capture your handmade creations before they are set aside to dry.

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The Tatedashi Matcha

Once your sweets are complete, you’ll enjoy Tatedashi Matcha, a style of green tea prepared by pouring hot water over finely powdered matcha in a gentle, elegant manner. The fluffy, smooth tea provides a calming counterpoint to the sweetness of your Ohigashi, making for a peaceful 15–20 minute tea break. Many reviews mention how this part of the experience adds a soothing, authentic touch—think of it as a mini tea ceremony, but more relaxed and accessible.

Final Moments

The experience concludes with a room departure approximately 30 minutes after the start, giving you enough time to relax and reflect. You’ll leave with your handmade sweets, a newfound appreciation for Japanese confectionery, and perhaps some ideas for future culinary adventures.

Value and Practicalities

At $14, this activity offers excellent value, especially considering the craftsmanship involved and the chance to take home your sweets. When you factor in the personalized experience, the opportunity to learn about the significance of Wasanbon, and the calming matcha, it feels like a true culture rather than just a quick tour. The option to add vibrant colors for an extra 200 JPY allows for some creative flair, especially appealing if you’re traveling with kids or want to give your sweets a festive look.

The experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive activities, are curious about Japanese sweets, or simply want a peaceful moment in their busy itinerary. Keep in mind that the process involves stairs, and the operation hours are from 10:00 to 17:00, so plan accordingly. Booking in advance can secure your spot, and you can reserve and pay later, which adds flexibility to your trip planning.

Who Will Really Enjoy This?

This tour is a perfect fit for culinary enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone interested in authentic Japanese culture. It’s especially rewarding if you want to go beyond sightseeing and get your hands dirty—well, sticky—shaping beautiful, edible art. The relaxed pace and focus on craftsmanship make it an enjoyable, low-stress activity, ideal if you’re in Kyoto for a few days and want a memorable, tactile experience.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the small details—like the subtle flavor of high-quality Wasanbon or the delicate shapes of your sweets—and value taking home a tangible souvenir of their trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes. Children who sit on their parents’ laps can participate free of charge if under 2 years old. Kids will likely enjoy shaping the sweets and seeing the colorful options.

Can I make colorful Ohigashi?
Yes. For an additional 200 JPY, you can add color to your sweets, making them more vibrant and fun.

How long does the activity last?
The total experience runs for about 50 minutes, including making the sweets, enjoying the matcha, and taking photos.

Is there an age limit?
There’s no strict age limit, but the activity involves some stairs and manual work, so it’s best suited for children old enough to handle that.

What is included in the price?
You get to make your own Japanese dried sweets (Ohigashi) using Wasanbon, along with a serving of Tatedashi Matcha.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. If you want colorful sweets, it costs an extra 200 JPY. Also, if you wish to purchase an experience completion certificate, it’s 300 JPY.

What language is the instruction given in?
The experience is primarily in Japanese, but some English translation is provided. Contact the provider if you want additional language support.

Where exactly do I meet the tour?
You meet just a minute’s walk from Exit 1 of Gojo Station, facing Gojo-dori street. The entrance is easy to spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations after that may incur a fee, so plan accordingly.

Is this experience available year-round?
Yes, operating hours are 10:00–17:00, year-round, but reservations are recommended to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a uniquely Japanese experience that combines culinary craftsmanship, cultural insight, and a moment of Zen, this sweets-making tour hits the mark. It’s a wonderful activity for anyone curious about Japan’s sweet tradition, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. The focus on high-quality Wasanbon and the chance to shape your own sweets make it both educational and enjoyable. Plus, the calming matcha offers a perfect pause in an otherwise busy sightseeing day.

While it’s a relatively short activity, its charm lies in the careful craft of making something beautiful and delicious with your own hands—a satisfying, authentic souvenir of your Kyoto visit. If you’re after a hands-on cultural experience that’s reasonably priced and truly memorable, this could be just the thing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Additional Resources

• Similar experiences include Kyoto Nishiki Market Tour, Kyoto Sushi Making, or Japanese Tea Ceremony—each offering a taste of authentic Kyoto culinary life. Links are provided for further exploration.