Nerikiri Wagashi-Making Class in Mitaka, Tokyo

Try your hand at nerikiri-making in the quiet residential neighborhood of Mitaka, home to the ever-popular Ghibli Museum. Nestled on the western edge of central Tokyo, Mitaka’s lush greenery and artistic vibe have attracted many intellectuals to make it their home. Your host Kaori is a member of the Wagashi Promotion Association. She volunteers as a guide for international tourists in Tokyo and enjoys making friends from different countries. In addition to wagashi-making, Kaori is also passionate about calligraphy and handcraft. You'll receive a handmade gift from her at the end of the class! Nerikiri, a traditional Japanese confectionery, artfully utilizes brightly-coloured gyuhi (rice flour), shiroan (sweet white bean paste), and Chinese yam. It's an edible art, with delicate shapes reflecting the changing seasons. Served with matcha green tea, it's common to eat nerikiri at traditional Japanese tea ceremonies around Japan. The class kicks off with a brief lecture on traditional wagashi-making, followed by a demonstration. Then, it's time to get creative and craft your own nerikiri masterpiece! When you're finished, take a moment to appreciate its aesthetic beauty before taking a bite. Let the sweetness melt in your mouth while sipping on matcha green tea. The refreshing bitterness of the green tea subtly balances the sweetness, creating a delightful sensory experience for the taste buds. Experience flow: Meet your host at their house Short walkthrough of the experience program Brief lecture about traditional wagashi-making Demonstration by Kaori Make your own nerikiri Enjoy your handmade wagashi