Temaki Sushi and Onigiri-Making Class at Tokyo’s Koboji Temple
Temaki Sushi and Onigiri-Making Class at Tokyo’s Koboji Temple
Step into a uniquely sleek temple in central Tokyo and learn to make temaki sushi and onigiri rice balls on traditional Japanese tatami mats.
Highlights
Make hand-rolled sushi and onigiri rice balls in an authentic tatami room inside a temple in central Tokyo
Explore the historic Koboji Temple in Mita and discover its fascinating history
Learn cultural insights, recipes and techniques to prepare staple Japanese dishes
10 meals
Experience Details
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.
What You Get
Good To Know
- The regular menu includes eggs and fish but dietary requests may be accommodated if made in advance
- If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, please specify them in the "notes" section upon booking. Requests made on the day of the experience itself may not be accommodated
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Please meet your host directly at Mita Koboji Temple, a 6-minute walk from Mita Station. A detailed address and a Google Maps link will be shared with guests upon booking confirmation.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 48 hours before the experience start time to receive a full refund.
Experience Location
Over 14 million residents call Tokyo home. Functioning as Japan's economic and cultural center, it's no surprise the metropolis often appears at the top of travelers' bucket lists. Here, you can find everything from traditional tea houses to futuristic skyscrapers.
Frequently Asked QuestionsIs this class suitable for beginners?
Can dietary preferences be accommodated?
Can I wear a kimono during the experience?
Do I need to bring anything to the class?
