Tokyo: Sushi Making Class in Asakusa with English Guide

Summary

Sushi rolling laughter near sensoji temple flavors of tokyo

You’ll step inside a cozy kitchen near Sensoji Temple for hands-on sushi making with a local instructor. Try your hand at nigiri and maki rolls, share laughs over imperfect shapes, and taste your own creations. It’s not just about learning — you’ll feel that warm welcome only Tokyo can offer.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped off the subway in Asakusa when the smell of sweet rice and soy sauce hit me — it’s everywhere around Sensoji Temple, but this time it felt like an invitation. Our sushi making class was tucked behind a lantern-lit street, and honestly, I was nervous about mangling the rice. Our instructor, Yuki, greeted us with that gentle bow you see in movies (but real life feels warmer). She had us wash our hands and then showed us how to press the rice just right — not too hard or you end up with a sticky mess. My first roll looked like a lopsided burrito. Yuki just grinned and said, “It’s your style!” which made everyone laugh.

The kitchen was bright and smelled faintly of vinegar and fresh fish — not overpowering, more like a hint that made me hungry. We learned to make nigiri and maki rolls side by side with a couple from Melbourne who kept dropping their seaweed sheets (I dropped mine too; it’s trickier than it looks). At one point I tried to say “kampai” properly before we tasted our creations — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin instead (I definitely butchered it). There was something comforting about eating what you made yourself, especially surrounded by strangers who suddenly didn’t feel so strange anymore.

I didn’t expect to feel so proud of my uneven sushi rolls. Maybe it was the way Yuki explained each step or how she told stories about her grandmother teaching her as a kid. By the end, we were all showing off our plates for photos (mine still looked wonky but tasted perfect). If you’re looking for things to do in Tokyo that actually stick with you after you leave, this sushi making class is one of those small joys I keep thinking about when I’m back home — especially that moment when everyone went quiet for the first bite.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Make authentic and roll sushi in Tokyo

• Meet local staff in Asakusa
• Learn sushi making techniques
• Make roll sushi (maki sushi)
• Make authentic nigiri sushi
• Enjoy eating your sushi creations

Top questions

Where is the sushi making class located in Tokyo?

The class is held in Asakusa, just steps from Sensoji Temple.

Is the sushi making class suitable for beginners?

Yes, no experience is needed; the instructor guides you through every step.

Is an English-speaking guide included?

Yes, the instructor speaks English and provides clear instructions throughout.

Are ingredients provided during the cooking class?

All ingredients needed for making sushi are included in your booking.

Can children or infants join the sushi class?

Infants and small children can attend; prams or strollers are allowed.

Are service animals permitted at the activity?

Yes, service animals are allowed at this location.

What types of sushi will I learn to make?

You’ll learn both nigiri sushi and roll (maki) sushi during the session.

How do I get to the cooking class location?

The venue is easily accessible by public transportation near Sensoji Temple in Asakusa.

What’s included

Your experience includes all fresh ingredients for both nigiri and maki sushi, hands-on instruction from an English-speaking local guide, plus time to enjoy your handmade meal together before heading back out into Asakusa’s lively streets.