Hands On Gyoza Making Workshop, The Art and Culture of Gyoza

Tochigi Prefecture , Japan

Hands On Gyoza Making Workshop, The Art and Culture of Gyoza

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About this experience

Explore the culinary delights of Utsunomiya, renowned as Japan's Gyoza capital!

Engage in hands-on gyoza making with a local master and learn about the different styles. The tours provide an authentic glimpse into Japanese food culture, with small groups ensuring an intimate experience.

Tours begin near JR Utsunomiya Station, conveniently accessible from Tokyo, Nikko, and Mashiko. Perfect for food enthusiasts, culture seekers, and families with children above 13.

The tour is guided by English-speaking locals and a famous local chef from a popular Gyoza restaurant in the capital of Gyoza, offering unique insights into local traditions.

- Hands-on gyoza making learning from a pro.
- Small group tours for a personalised experience
- English-speaking local guides providing insider knowledge
- Conveniently located near transport links from Tokyo, Nikko and Mashiko.

Available options

Hands On Gyoza Making Workshop, The Art and Culture of Gyoza

What's included

Cooking Apron

Ingredients for making your Gyoza

Your Gyoza cooked for your by a local chef

What's not included

Extra Food or Drinks (if you would like to purchase any)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Is there some walking?

Meeting point

Meeting point is beside the tourist information desk, just by the entry/exit ticket barriers.

About Tochigi Prefecture

Tochigi Prefecture is known for its natural beauty, historic temples, and hot springs. It is home to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is famous for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (1,300 JPY for the outer grounds, 3,000 JPY for the inner shrine)

Kegon Falls

One of Japan's most famous waterfalls, located in Nikko National Park. It is a stunning 97-meter drop surrounded by lush greenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (access to the park may require a fee)

Shinkyo Bridge

A sacred bridge and the gateway to the shrines and temples of Nikko. It is one of the three most famous bridges in Japan.

Historical 30 minutes Free (unless you want to cross it, which requires a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gyoza

Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, a popular street food in Utsunomiya.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten.

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth, a staple in Nikko.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten.

Yuba

Tofu skin, a delicacy in Nikko, often served in soups or as a topping for soba noodles.

Dinner Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nikko National Park White-water rafting in the Dabason River Soaking in hot springs Picnicking by Lake Chuzenji Visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine Exploring Oya History Museum Swimming in Lake Chuzenji Boat tours on the Daiya River

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tochigi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies and shops

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 150 km

By train

Utsunomiya Station, Nikko Station

By bus

Utsunomiya Bus Terminal, Nikko Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network is efficient and covers most of the prefecture, including Shinkansen services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nikko Utsunomiya

Day trips

Kashima Shrine

50 km • Half day

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to the Shinto deity of martial arts and war.

Oya History Museum

10 km • Half day

A museum showcasing the history of the Oya stone industry, with underground tunnels and exhibits on local history.

Festivals

Nikko Festival • October Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local specialties like gyoza in Utsunomiya and soba noodles in Nikko.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Consider staying in a ryokan for a traditional Japanese experience, complete with tatami-matted rooms and onsen baths.
Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transportation.