Umami Tasting at Michelin Ajikitcho (Incl. Meal)

A Deep Dive into the Umami Tasting at Michelin Ajikitcho in Osaka

Imagine spending three hours in the heart of Osaka, exploring the soul of Japanese cuisine through a combination of hands-on cooking and a carefully curated Kaiseki meal. For $332 per person, this experience offers an intimate look at the secret behind Japan’s iconic umami flavor — and it’s hosted by a chef who is eager to share their craft. Located just a short walk from Yotsubashi Station, Ajikitcho is a renowned spot known for its dedication to authentic washoku, or traditional Japanese cuisine.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to personally learn the art of making dashi, the fundamental broth that underpins countless Japanese dishes. Second, the chance to enjoy a multi-course authentic Kaiseki meal, featuring freshly prepared dishes that highlight the flavors of homemade broths. We love the thoughtful inclusion of translation services, making this accessible whether you speak English, Chinese, or Japanese.

A potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to 2-10 people, so booking in advance is essential. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 6, which makes sense given the delicate nature of the experience. This tour suits foodies, curious travelers eager to peek behind the scenes of Japanese cooking, and those looking for a memorable cultural activity en route to the Osaka Expo or exploring the city.

Authentic experience: Personal broth-making with a chef’s guidance, touching real ingredients like kombu kelp and bonito flakes.
Cultural insight: Learn about the importance of umami in washoku and how different ingredients create unique flavors.
Gourmet meal: Enjoy a traditional Kaiseki with dishes like Omi beef steak and sea bream rice, plus matcha soba noodles.
Personalized service: Limited group size, with translation in Chinese or English, plus photo opportunities.
Convenient location: Close to Osaka metro, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
Value for money: At $332, you get a thorough, authentic taste of Japanese cuisine combined with a memorable cultural lesson.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at Ajikitcho’s Umami Tasting Tour

The Meeting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at Ajikitcho Horieten, a cozy, well-located restaurant just a five-minute walk from Yotsubashi Station. The spot is easy to find, and the staff is prepared to welcome you with professionalism and enthusiasm. Once there, you’ll meet your guide, who will explain the day’s activities and answer any questions.

Because only one group is scheduled per time slot, the experience retains an intimate atmosphere—perfect for engaging directly with the chef and learning at your own pace. The entire experience lasts about three hours, so it fits nicely into a half-day tour or a relaxed afternoon in Osaka.

The Broth-Making Experience

The core of this tour is learning the art of making dashi, a simple yet complex broth that embodies the umami flavor. You’ll be guided by the owner-chef who will first demonstrate how to prepare a basic kombu and bonito broth—two staples of Japanese cooking. We loved the way the chef took the time to explain the ingredients’ significance: kelp (kombu) for its seaweed umami, bonito flakes for smoky depth, and dried shiitake mushrooms for earthiness.

You’ll have the chance to touch and feel the ingredients—such as full-sized kombu kelp—and even try shaving bonito flakes yourself, connecting you physically with the process. Tasting the freshly prepared broths side-by-side reveals how slight variations in ingredients can create distinct umami profiles. The chef might also prepare broths using other ingredients like sea bream bones or shellfish, broadening your understanding of how Japanese cuisine layers flavors.

The Kaiseki Meal and Tasting

After the broth-making, it’s time for the main event: a multi-course Kaiseki meal that showcases the flavors of the homemade broths. The menu varies daily, but you can expect dishes that highlight seasonality and precision.

Some highlights include:

• Matcha-infused soba noodles served with a dipping broth that complements the noodles’ earthy flavor.
• Sea bream rice cooked in an earthenware pot, allowing the rice to absorb the fish’s delicate flavor.
• An Omi beef steak, giving you a taste of premium Wagyu.
• Additional small dishes that reflect the chef’s daily creativity and ingredient availability.

The presentation is as important as the taste, with each dish crafted to ensure a balanced, harmonious experience. Participants can select between a regular or a special course menu, adding a bit of flexibility for dietary preferences.

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Learning and Photos

Throughout the experience, staff are happy to take photos with your mobile devices, so you can capture the moment without fuss. The staff will also explain the importance of umami in Japanese cuisine, covering topics like broth ingredients and their role in enhancing flavor.

The Final Touches

To conclude, you’ll receive limited souvenirs—small packets of homemade matcha salt, a set of matcha soba noodles, and an original knee blanket towel from Ajikitcho. These tokens keep the memory alive and offer a tangible taste of your authentic experience.

Analyzing the Value and Experience

For $332, this tour provides a comprehensive culinary and culture. It’s especially valuable for those interested in food preparation and authentic dining, as opposed to just tasting food. The guided broth-making and the detailed explanation help you appreciate the art and science behind umami—something you might not get from a casual restaurant visit.

The small group size enhances the experience, making it more interactive and personal. The inclusion of translation services makes it accessible for non-Japanese speakers, which is a significant advantage in a country where language barriers can sometimes complicate food experiences.

While the price isn’t cheap, it offers good value considering the personalized instruction, the multi-course meal, and the cultural insights packed into just three hours. If you’re a foodie or a curious traveler who loves to learn, this will be a memorable highlight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to learn about Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques. It suits travelers who want a hands-on activity and enjoy multi-course meals. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for a private, immersive cultural activity. However, it’s less suited for children under six or anyone looking for a quick, casual bite.

The Umami Tasting at Michelin Ajikitcho offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s culinary soul. From learning to make broth to savoring a beautifully crafted Kaiseki, you’ll leave with both knowledge and a deeper appreciation for washoku’s delicate balance of flavors. It’s a fine choice for seasoned foodies, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a meaningful cultural experience in Osaka.

While the price may seem steep, the depth of insight, the quality of the meal, and the intimacy of the setting make it a worthy investment. Plus, the ability to touch ingredients and learn directly from a chef creates memories that will linger long after you’ve returned home.

This tour is all about connection—to food, culture, and craftsmanship—and it’s worth considering if you’re ready for an authentic, behind-the-scenes peek into Japanese cuisine.

Is this experience suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, Chinese and English translation services are provided, making it accessible for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about three hours — one hour for the broth-making and two hours for the meal.

What is included in the price?
The package fee covers the broth-making class, the Kaiseki meal, translation, and souvenirs like matcha salt and noodles.

Can I choose the course menu?
Yes, you can select between a regular or special course menu depending on your preference.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, groups are limited to 2-10 people, which helps keep the experience intimate.

Are children allowed?
No, the experience isn’t suitable for children under 6 years of age.

What’s the location and how do I get there?
It’s at Ajikitcho Horieten, just a five-minute walk from Yotsubashi Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line.

What ingredients are used for the broth?
Key ingredients include kombu kelp, bonito flakes, dried shiitake mushrooms, sea bream bones, and shellfish.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations made up to 5 days in advance are fully refundable; within 4 days, a 100% fee applies.

Is this tour available in other languages?
Yes, it’s offered in Japanese, English, and Chinese.

In the end, this experience offers a wonderful blend of learning, tasting, and cultural insight—a true highlight for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of Japanese cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here: