Nishiki Market, Private Sushi class & Sake Tasting in Townhouse

Kyoto , Japan

Nishiki Market, Private Sushi class & Sake Tasting in Townhouse

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(5 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the essence of Kyoto through a vibrant local food adventure and sushi-making experience.
Begin with a guided stroll through the 400-year-old Nishiki Market where you’ll sample seasonal treats, meet local vendors, and explore hidden culinary gems. Then visit Nishiki Shrine, tucked away behind the market’s lantern-lit alleyways.
Next, step into a beautifully preserved Kyomachiya (traditional townhouse) where you’ll enjoy a mini sake tasting and learn about Japan’s renowned sake culture.
The highlight of your journey is a hands-on rolled sushi workshop, guided by a local instructor. You'll also prepare homemade miso soup from scratch (with dashi) and seasonal Japanese side dishes.
To finish, a simple Japanese-style dessert is also included, providing a sweet touch to conclude your experience.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available with advance notice. This experience is offered in English and includes a recipe booklet so you can recreate the flavors of Kyoto at home.

Available options

Nishiki Market, Private Sushi class & Sake Tasting in Townhouse

What's included

Alcoholic Beverages

Lunch

Restroom on board

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," has been a bustling center of local commerce and culinary tradition for over 400 years. This 5-block shopping street is home to more than 100 shops and restaurants, providing a unique opportunity to explore Kyoto's vibrant food culture. As you walk through the market, you'll discover a variety of fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, pickles, dried foods, and other ingredients essential to traditional Japanese cuisine.

Guide will share the market's rich history and its significance in Kyoto's culinary scene. You'll have the chance to taste traditional delicacies, and learn about the ingredients that define Kyoto's unique flavors.

Nishiki Market also offers crafts like hand-crafted knives and beautiful ceramics, making it an ideal place to find a souvenir that captures Kyoto's essence. Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast, or simply curious, a visit to Nishiki Market offers captivating insight into Kyoto's culinary heritage.

After exploring the Nishiki Market, you'll be welcomed into Kyomachiya, a beautifully restored traditional Kyoto townhouse, reserved exclusively for your group. This elegant and serene setting provides the perfect backdrop for an authentic cultural experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the refined atmosphere of old Kyoto.

Next, guided by a skilled host, you'll embark on a private hands-on Japanese cooking experience, learning to prepare traditional dishes, including rolled sushi. Using fresh ingredients, the session imparts not only techniques but also the cultural significance behind each dish, deepening your understanding of Japanese culinary traditions.

After savoring the beautifully presented dishes, your host will guide you through the process of preparing matcha (green tea).

Whether you are a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this experience will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan's rich cultural heritage.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Location: In front of the Silver Monument at the North Exit of Daimaru Kyoto Department Store on Nishiki Koji Dori.
Instructions: Your guide will be waiting in front of the monument, holding a panel with your name on it.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.