Kyoto: Sushi Making Class with Chef & Tasting at Musubu

Summary

Hands-on Kyoto sushi class guided by a local chef plus tasting

You’ll step into Musubu in Kyoto, suit up like a real sushi chef, and learn from locals how to shape nigiri while hearing stories about its history. Taste your own handmade sushi alongside akadashi soup and green tea. Expect laughter over imperfect rolls and quiet moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Li greeted us at the door of Musubu with this tiny bow — I almost missed it, honestly, because I was distracted by the smell of vinegared rice drifting out from somewhere behind the counter. She handed me a little white apron and the kind of chef’s hat you see in old photos. I laughed, probably too loud for Kyoto, but she just smiled and adjusted my hat (apparently backwards). The chef — I think his name was Saito-san — spoke quietly but his hands moved fast, showing us how to press the rice for nigiri. It looked easy until I tried it. My first one fell apart and Li laughed when I tried to say “shari” in Japanese. Probably butchered it.

Before we started making anything, Saito-san told us about how sushi wasn’t always what we know now. He talked about old celebrations in Japan where people would share these early versions of sushi — way before conveyor belts or plastic grass dividers. There was something calming about listening to him while the rain tapped on the window. He showed us how to shape the rice just right, then layer on fresh fish — not too much pressure or it squishes out the sides (I learned that quick). The main keyword here is “sushi making class Kyoto,” but honestly it felt less like a class and more like being let in on a family secret.

After we finished our attempts (mine were… uneven), we sat together at this low table and ate what we’d made. The akadashi soup was salty and deep — kind of earthy? — and there was green tea that tasted grassy but soft. It’s funny how food can make you feel like you’re part of something bigger for a second. Li poured more tea and asked if we’d ever tried making sushi before; I admitted this was my first time rolling anything more complicated than a burrito back home.

I keep thinking about that moment when everyone went quiet for a minute, just eating their own little creations, rain still going outside. If you’re looking for a day trip sushi making class in Kyoto that feels real — not staged or rushed — this one’s worth it. Just don’t expect your nigiri to look perfect (mine sure didn’t), but maybe that’s part of why I remember it so clearly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sushi making experience in Kyoto

• Learn sushi history from chef
• Receive step-by-step sushi guidance
• Make nigiri sushi yourself
• Wear sushi chef attire
• Enjoy eating your nigiri sushi

Top questions

How long does the sushi making class at Musubu last?

The exact duration isn’t specified, but allow around 1–2 hours for the full experience including instruction, preparation, and tasting.

Is lunch included in the Kyoto sushi making class?

You’ll eat the nigiri sushi you make yourself along with akadashi (red miso soup) and green tea during the class.

Do I need previous experience to join this sushi class?

No experience is needed; step-by-step guidance is provided by a professional chef throughout.

Is there a dress code or do I get special attire?

You’ll be given attire similar to a real sushi chef as part of the experience.

What happens if I’m late for my reservation?

If more than 10 minutes have passed since your reserved time without contact, your booking will be automatically cancelled.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to Musubu in Kyoto.

Can infants join the class?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the activity.

What’s included

Your day includes hands-on guidance from a professional chef at Musubu in Kyoto, use of traditional chef attire during your sushi making class, all ingredients for preparing nigiri sushi yourself, plus akadashi red miso soup and green tea served alongside what you create before heading out again into Kyoto’s streets.