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"Learn the art, history, and heart behind Japan's beloved rice balls from the owner of a famous onigiri shop."
Learn onigiri-making from the owner of a beloved Onigiri Bongo
Discover Japanese rice culture and the secrets to preparing rice for onigiri
Taste a variety of traditional fillings before choosing your favorite
Shape two onigiri by hand and compare them with one made by Okami-san
Enjoy a comforting meal with miso soup and take a commemorative photo with Okami-san
For many people in Japan, onigiri is more than a quick meal. It is a simple taste of home, made with care and enjoyed every day. Here, go beyond making onigiri and meet Okami-san, the woman behind Onigiri Bongo. Hear her stories, learn about her craft, and talk about the food culture she loves.
Onigiri Bongo has served handmade onigiri since 1960. After decades of making them, Okami-san knows that great onigiri starts with the rice, careful preparation, and the care that goes into every rice ball.
An English interpreter will help you connect with Okami-san as you ask questions, hear her stories, and talk about onigiri and Japanese food culture. Her warm personality makes the experience feel less like a cooking class and more like a genuine conversation about food and life.
Start with a closer look at Japanese rice. Learn how freshly cooked rice differs from rested rice and how preparation affects the texture and flavor of onigiri.
Next, sample classic fillings and learn how they are prepared and why they remain popular in Japan. Choose your preferred filling at the restaurant before making your own onigiri.
Watch Okami-san demonstrate her shaping technique, then make two onigiri with her guidance. Learn how gentle movements and the right amount of pressure bring the rice together into the right shape and texture.
Afterward, compare your creations with one prepared by Okami-san and enjoy them with miso soup and green tea or water. Take time to continue your conversation about Japanese cuisine, onigiri, and her journey.
Before the experience ends, take a commemorative photo with Okami-san. Held just once a month, this special gathering gives you a rare chance to meet her, hear her stories, and discover the traditions and memories behind one of Japan’s most familiar foods.
Choose your preferred onigiri filling after your booking is confirmed
The venue is wheelchair/stroller accessible, however, please note that that shop is quite narrow
Children are welcome. Please inform the host in advance if a child under 10 will participate
Handmade onigiri may be taken home but should be eaten within two hours
This special event is only available once a month
Yes. Okami guides guests through each step, from learning about Japanese rice to shaping onigiri by hand, making the experience suitable for all skill levels.
Vegetarian
Not Available
Vegan
Not Available
Halal
Not Available
Pescetarian
Not Available
Gluten-free
Not Available
Kosher
Not Available
Vegetarian
Not Available
Vegan
Not Available
Halal
Not Available
Pescetarian
Not Available
Gluten-free
Not Available
Kosher
Not Available
Course changes seasonally, exact dishes can't be confirmed in advance. byFood can communicate any dietary needs to the host when you book.
Hands-on onigiri-making lesson with the Okami, including the basics of washing and cooking rice and other essential techniques
Three onigiri, including one made by the Okami
Miso soup
Green tea or water
Transportation to and from the venue
Additional onigiri
Alcoholic beverages
Tokyo
Please meet your host at Otsuka Station. More details and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.
I had such a lovely time at this onigiri-making class with my friends! The sweetest grandma taught us how to make onigiri and shared so many helpful tips and little tricks along the way. It was such a fun and heartwarming experience, and we got to enjoy making something delicious together.
I would especially recommend this experience for families and children it’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together while learning about Japanese food and culture. A fun, hands-on activity for all ages...read more
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DianaAugust 2026 • byFood
I was honestly surprised by how easy and enjoyable it was to make onigiri by myself. The instructors were incredibly kind and always ready to help, especially toward the end when I needed a little extra guidance. I made tuna mayo, beef, and eggs , and all three were so delicious. One of my favorite moments was taking photos together at the end the way everyone smiled and waved made the whole experience feel especially warm and memorable
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BradAugust 2026 • byFood
The onigiri experience taught me a lot more than I originally expected! I've made onigiri before but never been taught in a more home-style manner, and it showed! My first onigiri was rather embarrassing, but with the help of the chefs teaching I was able to create a beautiful onigiri I could be very proud of, plus be able to make for my family in the future.
And of course, the onigiri was delicious too - great ingredient selection! I think you'll get even more value out of it if you learn some ...read more
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Franchesca FernandezJuly 2026 • byFood
My first time joining an onigiri-making class, and I had so much fun. 🍙🤍 Please take a moment to read this.
This experience was such a privilege and something I'll always remember. While I enjoyed learning how to make onigiri, what truly captured my heart was hearing the story behind it from our teacher, who has spent years perfecting this craft.
Many people think making onigiri is simple and technically, it is. But making it with love, compassion, dedication, and a genuine desire to nourish o...read more
Autumn Special
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