Become a master confectioner with a wagashi-making workshop in Tokyo! Learn how to make nerikiri (a traditional Japanese confectionery), master the art of matcha tea-making, then enjoy your handmade duo with your classmates and instructor. This is a fun, beginner-friendly, and social experience where you’ll learn how to create sweet, edible masterpieces!

Experience flow:

Brief class and recipe introduction

Nerikiri (wagashi) workshop

Make matcha tea

Enjoy your handmade nerikiri and matcha

Nerikiri are one of the oldest types of confectionary in Japan, dating back to the Edo period (1603–1868). They’re a type of wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionary) made by artfully shaping and decorating bean paste. On top of being steeped in history and culture, these aesthetic sweet treats are made using healthy, plant-based ingredients (no eggs, dairy, or wheat flour in sight).

Nerikiri primarily consists of three key components: High-quality sweet bean paste, typically made from azuki beans, which this experience sources from a renowned sweet bean paste factory in Kyoto. Mochi, a chewy and glutinous rice cake, is skillfully kneaded into the sweet bean paste. Natural pigments, that are employed to achieve the confection's stunning, vibrant colors.

During this experience, you’ll knead, color, shape, and decorate five artful nerikiri with the guidance of your host. Mari, a dedicated mother of three, is on a mission to share Japanese culture. In 2022, she launched self-learning confectionary classes for kids as young as three. In just a year, she taught 500 children the art of crafting Japanese sweets and expanded to offer adult courses, making cultural exploration accessible to all ages; it’s safe to say you’re in good hands!

After you’ve nailed your nerikiri, move on to matcha-making! Learn how to prepare matcha tea (temperature, measurements, sifting, whisking, serving), then enjoy your handmade sweet treats alongside a freshly made cup of tea.