Craft Authentic Washoku: Japanese Cuisine Course in Osaka

Duration: 3 hours / Hosted in: English and Japanese / Cancellation flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time

Experience the Art of Washoku

Immerse yourself in the flavors and techniques of traditional Japanese cuisine with this hands-on cooking class in Osaka. Perfect for food lovers and travelers, this class lets you choose from three menu options — Fish, Meat, or Vegetarian — each featuring classic Washoku dishes that showcase the balance of flavors unique to Japanese cooking.

As a chef with over a decade of experience, I'll guide you step-by-step through grilling, simmering, marinating, and pickling techniques. Whether you're new to Japanese cuisine or looking to expand your skills, this class will leave you inspired to recreate these dishes at home.

What You'll Make

Choose your menu option at the time of booking. Each option features traditional Washoku dishes made from scratch with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Want to learn even more? Enhance your experience with an optional add-on bundle.

🐟 Fish Option

1. Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) — Cook fragrant rice infused with seasonal vegetables and umami-rich seasonings, all in one pot.

2. Kyuri no Sunomono (Cucumber Vinegar Salad) — Prepare a light, refreshing cucumber salad with a delicate sweet vinegar dressing — a staple of Japanese home cooking.

3. Japanese Potato Salad — Discover Japan's beloved twist on a classic: creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with texture.

4. Buri Daikon (Simmered Yellowtail with Daikon) — Simmer tender daikon and yellowtail together in a rich, savory broth of soy sauce, mirin, and sake.

5. Sakana no Tatsuta-age (Crispy Fried Fish) — Marinate fish in soy sauce and ginger, then fry it to golden, crispy perfection using a traditional Japanese technique.

🍖 Meat Option

1. Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) — Cook fragrant rice infused with seasonal vegetables and umami-rich seasonings, all in one pot.

2. Kyuri no Sunomono (Cucumber Vinegar Salad) — Prepare a light, refreshing cucumber salad with a delicate sweet vinegar dressing — a staple of Japanese home cooking.

3. Japanese Potato Salad — Discover Japan's beloved twist on a classic: creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with texture.

4. Nikujaga (Meat and Potato Stew) — Master Japan's ultimate comfort dish — tender meat and potatoes slow-simmered in a warming broth of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi.

5. Chicken Nanban — Fry golden, juicy chicken and coat it in a sweet tangy vinegar sauce, finished with homemade tartar sauce.

🥦 Vegetarian Option

1. Takikomi Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice) — Cook fragrant rice infused with seasonal vegetables and umami-rich seasonings, all in one pot.

2. Yaki Yasai no Yakibitashi (Grilled Marinated Vegetables) — Grill seasonal vegetables until lightly charred, then soak in a light dashi marinade for a smoky, savory depth of flavor.

3. Hakusai no Tsukemono (Pickled Napa Cabbage) — Learn the art of quick Japanese pickling — crisp napa cabbage lightly seasoned for a bright, refreshing finish.

4. Agedashi Tofu no Ankake (Deep-Fried Tofu in Dashi Sauce) — Fry silken tofu to a delicate golden crust and serve in a silky, umami-rich thickened broth.

5. Shiraae (Tofu and Vegetable Salad) — Blend smooth tofu with sesame and miso into a creamy dressing, tossed with fresh seasonal vegetables.

6. Japanese Potato Salad — Discover Japan's beloved twist on a classic: creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with texture.

➕ Optional Add-On Bundles

Want to explore more of the Washoku menu? Add a bundle of dishes from another option to your class. Please request add-ons at the time of booking.

• Meat Add-On — Nikujaga + Chicken Nanban — +¥3,500 / person

  

• Fish Add-On — Buri Daikon + Sakana no Tatsuta-age — +¥3,500 / person

  

• Veggie Add-On — Agedashi Tofu no Ankake + Shiraae + Hakusai no Tsukemono — +¥3,000 / person

  

Add-on bundles may extend the class by approximately 15 minutes.

Highlights of Your Experience

• Hands-On Cooking: Practice traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

• Master Flavor Balances: Use ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and sake to achieve authentic Washoku flavors.

• Cultural Insights: Learn the history and philosophy of Washoku cuisine.

• Optional Sake Pairing: Enhance your meal with expertly selected sakes.

Optional Sake Pairing

Enjoy three types of sake:

• Two Chilled Sakes: Compare the unique flavors of Junmai and Junmai Ginjo.

• One Warm Sake: Experience how warming sake transforms its taste and aroma.

Itinerary

Morning Class 10:00 Meet at the venue 10:15 Introduction and preparation 10:30 Start cooking 12:30 Enjoy your Washoku lunch 13:00 End of class

Evening Class 16:30 Meet at the venue 16:45 Introduction and preparation 17:00 Start cooking 19:30 Enjoy your Washoku dinner — End of class

What's Included

• Food: Five to six traditional Washoku dishes (lunch or dinner)

• Drinks: Japanese green tea and water (sake pairing optional)

• Equipment: All cooking tools and ingredients provided

Dietary Preferences / Important Information

• Three menu options available: Fish, Meat, and Vegetarian. Please select your preference at the time of booking. Additional dietary needs can be accommodated if requested in advance.

• Suitable for adult guests aged 18 and up (up to 4 guests total).

Where You'll Be

The venue is located in Higashi-Osaka, just 30 minutes from Namba. Surrounded by traditional Japanese homes and cultural landmarks, this peaceful neighborhood offers an authentic and immersive experience.

Why This Experience Stands Out

• Learn from an experienced chef with over a decade in Japanese cuisine.

• Choose a menu that suits your taste — Fish, Meat, or Vegetarian.

• Enjoy a hands-on and cultural cooking experience in a serene Japanese home.

• Use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create authentic dishes.

• Take home new skills, recipes, and unforgettable memories.

Book now to discover the world of Washoku and bring the rich flavors of Japan to your table.