Take a break from the busy sights and sounds of Tokyo and immerse yourself in a hands-on cultural experience where food meets art! Join your host in their local home studio to learn how to make udon noodles from scratch, and try your hand at traditional Japanese calligraphy too. Your host is a licensed dietician and expert calligrapher, who is passionate about connecting people from around the world through cooking and calligraphy. During this cozy cultural exchange, you can learn all about everyday life in Japan and what it’s like living in Tokyo as a local.

After a warm welcome, you will learn how to prepare udon noodles from scratch. Udon are a traditional type of Japanese noodle, which are typically thicker and more plump than ramen noodles, however you can definitely find thinner or fatter regional variants. Although it seems simple, you might be surprised by how physical the process is! Prepare yourself to knead, stomp, and cut it just right! You’ll walk away with all the knowledge you need to make this noodle dish at home.

However, after making the noodle dough, it will need to rest. While you wait, this is your chance to learn the ancient art of calligraphy. Your host will teach you to write a kanji character of your choosing. Using a brush, ink, and careful calligraphy techniques, you will have a chance to practice different strokes and master them elegantly!

Once the dough has rested, you will learn how to cut the homemade noodles individually with a special knife and chopping technique. You will get to eat the freshly made udon on the spot after briefly boiling them to perfection, and receive a recipe to take home as well. Enjoy your comforting noodles while enjoying some conversation with your host and share stories about your experiences in Japan.