Sapporo isn’t just about snow festivals and beer; it’s also a fantastic place to try your hand at traditional Japanese crafts and culinary arts. What makes Sapporo especially appealing is its welcoming local scene and high-quality offerings — perfect for those wanting a hands-on experience. Whether you’re interested in creating beautiful decorative sushi, learning the delicate art of wagashi sweets, or mastering a full Japanese meal, the city offers a variety of workshops that go beyond typical sightseeing. We particularly love the 2 hours sushi class for its approachable pace and the chance to impress friends back home with skillful sushi rolls.
Some of the most memorable experiences include learning to craft wagashi sweets, which is an exclusive activity in Sapporo, or participating in a private home cooking class that offers an intimate look at local ingredients and dishes. All these options provide genuine opportunities to connect with Japanese culture through food and craft, making your trip that much more meaningful.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of hands-on workshops and classes in Sapporo. You can try your hand at sushi making, wagashi sweets, traditional Japanese meals, tea ceremonies, jewelry crafting, and even snow sports lessons. Prices range from budget-friendly experiences like the sushi class at around $22.95, to more personalized and comprehensive options such as private cooking lessons and jewelry workshops. Read on to find the perfect fit for your interests and schedule.
1. 2 hours sushi class
At number one, we highlight the 2 hours sushi class which offers a quick but thorough introduction to decorative sushi roll making. Yuki, the instructor, is renowned for her skill and TV appearances, adding an extra layer of credibility to this class. The workshop is hands-on, with participants learning how to craft visually appealing sushi with intricate flower and animal shapes.
What makes this experience stand out is its affordable price of just $22.95, making it accessible for most travelers. The class lasts around 2 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule. Guests consistently praise Yuki’s clear instructions and warm hospitality, with reviews mentioning her personal touches like pick-up service and tea. It’s ideal for sushi lovers or those wanting a fun, quick cultural activity that leaves you with a skill you’ll want to show off back home.
Bottom Line: Great for budget travelers who want a fun, quick immersion into Japanese sushi artistry with a top-notch teacher.
2. Wagashi traditional Japanese sweets class
Next on our list is the Wagashi traditional Japanese sweets class, a rare opportunity to explore Japan’s delicate confectionery art. Hosted by the popular Yuki, who’s appeared widely in media, this 2-hour class is the only one of its kind in Sapporo. Here, you will learn to make beautiful flower-shaped wagashi, which are both edible art and a treat.
The cozy setting at Yuki’s home creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for learning this intricate craft. With a price of around $63.69 per person, it’s a bit of a splurge but offers a unique, culturally rich experience. Previous participants rave about making sweets that look as good as they taste and appreciate the host’s friendliness and expert guidance. Plus, Yuki’s recommendations for local cafes add value to your day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for connoisseurs of Japanese sweets or anyone seeking an authentic taste of wagashi artistry in a personal setting.
3. Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Chef Shiori
For a more personalized experience, the Private Japanese Cooking Class with Chef Shiori offers in-depth instruction on how to prepare a full Japanese meal. Over approximately three hours, you will learn to make dishes like sushi, somen noodles, and grilled chicken in a peaceful neighborhood setting. The private format allows you to ask questions and focus on techniques you can replicate at home.
Guests rave about Shiori’s warm personality and patience, with reviews emphasizing her ability to make complicated dishes approachable. The class costs $88 per person, which reflects the tailored experience and quality of instruction. This experience is perfect for foodies who want a comprehensive lesson and a meal to enjoy afterward.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious cooks or those wanting a custom, immersive taste of Japanese home-style cuisine.
4. Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local
At number four, you’ll explore Sapporo’s Nijo Ichiba market with Kanae, then learn to cook local dishes in her home. This 4-hour experience combines a market tour — where you’ll see fresh seafood, vegetables, and Hokkaido specialties — with a hands-on cooking session. The all-inclusive price of $82 covers ingredients, lunch, and drinks, making it a stress-free way to dive into regional flavors.
Guests highlight Kanae’s knowledge and friendliness, noting how she explains unfamiliar ingredients and includes a market walk that’s both educational and fun. It’s perfect for foodies wanting to understand local produce and taste a variety of dishes made from fresh ingredients. The experience’s length and depth make it especially good for those interested in cooking and regional food culture.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking an immersive, local experience with authentic market ingredients and a guided cooking session.
5. Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Host Kanae
Another excellent private option is the Japanese Cooking Class with Kanae, focusing on multiple dishes that reflect Hokkaido’s culinary style. Over three hours, you’ll learn how to cook dishes like fresh seafood, burdock, tofu, and miso soup in Kanae’s welcoming home. The class emphasizes using locally-sourced ingredients and offers a full meal at the end.
Guests describe Kanae as a wonderful host, noting how she shares stories while teaching techniques like making udon from scratch and tempura. The $72 price makes it a good value for the depth of experience and personal touches. This class suits travelers wishing to deepen their understanding of Japanese home cooking.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a personalized, ingredient-focused lesson with a focus on local flavors.
6. Japanese Cooking Class in the Heart of Sapporo with Sakura
For those who prefer learning in a local home setting, Sakura’s class offers a cozy, informal experience. In about 3 hours, you’ll make 2-3 seasonal dishes like miso soup, onigiri, or tamago. Everything is included, so you just arrive ready to cook and eat.
Guests appreciate Sakura’s patience and the personalized attention that makes this class stand out. The experience costs $72, making it a good option for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic atmosphere and to learn a few staple recipes of home-style Japanese cooking.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a warm, local environment for learning simple, seasonal Japanese dishes.
7. Japanese Tea Making Class in Sapporo
Tea is an integral part of Japanese culture, and this Tea Making Class offers a unique chance to explore the art of brewing. In about 1.5 hours, you’ll learn about different hot water temperatures and brewing times, and how to serve tea in traditional ceramic cups or chilled in wine glasses. It’s a peaceful, sensory experience perfect for tea lovers.
The class costs $78.48, and while it may not be as interactive as a cooking class, it offers a different perspective on Japanese hospitality and tradition. It’s a nice break from culinary pursuits and adds a cultural dimension to your trip.
Bottom Line: Great for enthusiasts interested in Japan’s tea culture and looking for a calming, educational experience.
8. Silver Ring Workshop – Smith at Keio Plaza Sapporo
For something different, the Silver Ring Workshop lets you craft your own jewelry in just 1.5 hours. Accommodating groups of 1-6 people, it’s perfect for couples, friends, or families wanting a creative souvenir. You’ll learn basic silver smithing techniques and can engrave names or Hokkaido landmarks for a personal touch.
The price is $116 per person, including the anti-tarnish coating and same-day take-home jewelry. It’s a fun, memorable activity that combines craftsmanship with sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for creative travelers who want a tangible, handcrafted keepsake from their trip.
9. Seafood Rolls and Tempura Cooking Class with Matcha in Hokkaido
This 2.5-hour class focuses on fresh seafood, typical of Hokkaido’s culinary reputation. You’ll learn to make seafood rolls, tempura, and enjoy Japanese sweets and matcha afterward. The class emphasizes traditional techniques and uses local ingredients.
Rated highly for its fun, authentic atmosphere and quality ingredients, this experience is perfect for seafood lovers. At $105.94, it’s a bit of a splurge but offers a full, satisfying meal and a chance to learn some classic cooking skills.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who love seafood and want to learn how to prepare Hokkaido’s famous fresh ingredients.
10. Private Ski and Snowboard Lesson in Sapporo or Otaru with a Coach
For winter sports enthusiasts, this private lesson in Sapporo or Otaru is a standout. It’s tailored to your skill level, with a professional instructor guiding you on Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, or Sapporo Teine’s best runs. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve technique, personalized coaching ensures progress.
At $467.56, it’s an investment, but one that offers high-quality, tailored instruction in some of Japan’s top ski resorts. The lesson lasts around 5 hours, including equipment and coaching, making it ideal for serious skiers or snowboarders.
Bottom Line: Best for dedicated winter sports lovers eager to improve skills while enjoying Hokkaido’s famous slopes.
$467.56 per person
11. Sushi Making Class in Sapporo
Finally, the Sushi Making Class offers a comprehensive, fun experience perfect for first-timers and foodies alike. In about 70 minutes, you’ll learn how to make perfect sushi rice, craft 6 nigiri, and create a decorative roll using market-fresh ingredients. The class is highly practical, with tips you can use at home.
Rated zero reviews, but based on the detailed description, it’s an engaging activity that balances technique with fun. The price of $32.86 makes it an affordable way to learn a core Japanese skill.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a quick, practical introduction to sushi with a memorable, photo-worthy finish.
$32.86 per person
How to Choose Your Workshop or Class
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a quick, budget-friendly introduction to sushi, the 2 hours sushi class is ideal. If you’re into cultural crafts, the wagashi or jewelry workshops offer a unique hands-on experience. Those who want an immersive culinary day might prefer the market tour and cooking class or a private lesson in a local home.
Be aware of time commitment: a 1-hour tea class suits a busy schedule, while a 4-hour market and cooking experience offers in-depth learning. Budget also matters; while some experiences like jewelry making or private lessons are pricier, they provide a more personalized touch.
Book in advance, especially for popular hosts like Yuki or Sakura, to ensure availability. The best time to take these classes is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy comfortable weather.
To sum it up, Sapporo offers a broad spectrum of workshops from culinary to crafts, perfect for enriching your trip with authentic, hands-on experiences. For those seeking quick fun, the sushi or sushi making classes are fantastic options. Travelers craving deeper culture will love the wagashi or private cooking lessons. If you’re planning ahead, these workshops fill up quickly, so reserve early and prepare for a memorable, tasty adventure in Japan’s northern city.