Authentic Homestyle Japanese Cooking Class near Tokyo with Risa

Saitama Prefecture , Japan

Authentic Homestyle Japanese Cooking Class near Tokyo with Risa

Active

(2 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This local, immersive food experience offers a warm and personal glimpse into Japanese culture, led by Risa, a passionate local guide who shares her culinary skills and family traditions. From making dashi from scratch to enjoying a homestyle meal in her cozy kitchen, this class feels like being welcomed into a Japanese home in Saitama, a 20-min train ride from Shinjuku station.

Available options

Cooking Class + Dinner

Cooking Class + Lunch

What's included

Homestyle Japanese meal

Private Japanese cooking class with a local

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Meeting point

Meet your host at her home in Saitama, a 20-min train ride from Shinjuku station. Directions can be found in the "Before you go" section of your ticket after confirmation.

Important notes

Host Name: Risa Kubota
Email: risa.kubota9957@gmail.com

Address: 1-chōme-13-15 Shimomae, Toda, Saitama, Tokyo, Japan 335-016
Meeting Instructions: Meet your host at her apartment building (Apartment #401) in Saitama, a town just outside Tokyo. Here is a Google Maps link to her location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vG61EmqSRv6vniPg9
Risa's home is a 10 min walk from JR Toda-Kōen station.

DIRECTIONS:
The simplest train route from Shinjuku Station to Toda-Koen Station is as follows:
1. Board the JR Saikyo Line (Green Line )at Shinjuku Station.
2. Travel directly to Toda-Koen Station without any transfers.
It takes approximately 20 minutes and costs 320 JPY.

NOTE: The Commuter Rapid (Tsukin Kaisoku) trains do not stop at Toda-Koen Station, so please be careful.
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with personally vetted locals in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.

We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!

About Saitama Prefecture

Saitama Prefecture, located just north of Tokyo, offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its parks, museums, and as a gateway to the mountains, it's a perfect blend of modern living and traditional charm.

Top Attractions

Kawagoe

Known as 'Little Edo,' Kawagoe features well-preserved Edo-period buildings, traditional sweets, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Budget to Moderate

Chichibu

A mountainous region known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes.

Nature Full day to overnight Budget to Moderate

Saitama Super Arena

A multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.

Entertainment 2-4 hours Variable

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kawagoe Mochi

A traditional sweet made from rice flour, often filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings.

Dessert Vegetarian

Saitama Gyu (Beef)

High-quality beef from Saitama, often grilled or served in hot pots.

Dinner Contains meat

Soba Noodles

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

Lunch Vegetarian (check for dipping sauce ingredients)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park Canyoning in Mitake Gorge Onsen (hot spring) visits Strolling through Kawagoe's historical streets Visiting temples and shrines in Nikko and Kamakura Exploring traditional candy shops in Kawagoe Boating on Lake Chuzenji in Nikko Skiing and snowboarding in the mountains of Chichibu

Best Time to Visit

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

Spring offers cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn provides cool temperatures and beautiful fall colors. These are the most popular times to visit.

10-25°C (50-77°F) 50-77°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: Generally safe

Saitama is generally safe with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and official tour operators.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Haneda Airport • 30 km (19 miles)

By train

Tokyo Station, Ueno Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Buster Terminal Tokyo

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual train network covering the entire prefecture and connecting to Tokyo.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Omiya Kawagoe Chichibu

Day trips

Nikko

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural landscapes.

Kamakura

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A coastal town known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha.

Kumagaya

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

A city known for its historical sites and the Kumagaya Onsen hot spring.

Festivals

Kawagoe Festival • Early October Saitama Gold Theater Festival • Annual (dates vary) Chichibu Night Festival • Early December

Pro tips

Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for easy and discounted public transportation.
Visit Kawagoe during festivals for a more authentic and vibrant experience.
Explore the rural areas of Saitama for stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
Try local specialties like Kawagoe Mochi and Saitama Gyu for a taste of the region's cuisine.
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.