Best known for its wisteria curtains at Ashikaga Flower Park, greenhouses bursting with juicy strawberries, and vast shopping at Sano Premium Outlets, Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture is also famous for one more thing: a steaming bowl of Sano ramen.

This ramen is made with airy, chewy hand-cut noodles cooked in thermal hot spring water and served in a clear, light soy sauce broth with flavorful toppings. It’s a dish worth traveling from Tokyo to taste, or even better, to make yourself.

In this hands-on experience, you’ll learn the art of ramen-making from a real chef. Your host will pick you up from Sano Station and drive you to the ramen restaurant where the class takes place.

You’ll start by learning about the history of Sano ramen, its role in the local community, and what makes it different from other types of ramen.

Then it’s time to get hands-on. Using a bamboo pole, you’ll practice a technique called “aotakeuchi,” which helps create perfect noodle texture and always brings a few laughs. You’ll knead, roll, and cut the noodles yourself. You’ll also make gyoza dumplings to complete the meal.

The experience can be tailored to be halal, vegan, or vegetarian. Just let your host know your preference when booking.

After enjoying your homemade ramen, your host will return you to Sano Station, leaving you free to explore the city’s sights at your own pace.