Temaki Sushi and Onigiri-Making Class at Tokyo’s Koboji Temple

Ambling through Tokyo’s central district of Mita, you might pass the sleek entrance of Koboji Temple without realizing the experiences waiting inside. Originally founded over a thousand years ago in Wakayama, the temple was later moved to Tokyo and renovated in 2014, blending modern architecture with historic charm. Today, Koboji is an active temple and the setting for this hands-on temaki handroll and onigiri-making class. In a room with traditional tatami flooring, you will learn to make temaki, a cone-shaped hand-rolled sushi, and onigiri rice balls. Temaki combines the words "te," meaning hand, and "maki," a type of rolled sushi. Choose between an avocado salmon handroll or a modern California roll with thin egg strips, flying fish roe, and crab sticks. Ingredient substitutions can be made in advance for pescetarian, halal, or gluten-free preferences. Japanese onigiri have existed for over two thousand years and are a staple of everyday meals. In this class, you will make them yourself, choosing between tuna mayo or a mix of bonito flakes and sesame, and learn how to shape the rice into an onigiri’s classic triangular form. While preparing your meal, your instructor shares the cultural and historical significance of these two rice staples. You can enjoy the dishes you created in the peaceful, hallowed interiors of Koboji Temple. You can optionally wear a traditional kimono or the rare Oshima Tsumugi haori, a lightweight, soft silk with beautiful kasuri patterns. A certified kimono master will help you put it on comfortably over your clothes, so anyone can enjoy the experience with ease. No special preparation is needed, just come as you are and immerse yourself in this unique blend of culture, history, and hands-on cooking.