Washoku: Authentic Japanese Cooking Class (Fushimi, Kyoto)

Embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Kyoto, just a stone's throw away from the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Learn the art of washoku cuisine at Mihoko-san’s authentic Japanese cooking class! Washoku, known as 和食 in Japanese, directly translates to "Japanese food”, and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, emphasizing the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a balance of flavors, textures, and colors.

Your Japanese culinary journey begins at a traditional home near Kyoto’s sacred Fushimi Inari Shrine. Relax, soak up the atmosphere, and prepare to transform from an amateur to a professional chef.

Hands-On Cooking:

After a class introduction, roll up your sleeves and get down to business! You’ll learn how to make a washoku menu featuring a range of dishes (all of which you’ll make from scratch).

Japanese Dashi

Tempura with Seasonal Vegetables

Japanese-style Rolled Omelet

Spinach with Sesame Dressing

Miso Soup

Inari Sushi & Sushi Rolls

Mochi Ice

A Feast for the Senses: After the cooking session, it's time to savor the fruits of your labor. Gather in a traditional Japanese room to enjoy your handmade feast. Sip on miso soup, savor tempura with seasonal vegetables, and indulge in a creamy Japanese-style rolled omelet. But wait, there’s more! A spinach salad with sesame dressing, inari sushi, sushi rolls, and a mochi ice dessert.

Local Insights: Once you’ve refueled, your host will take you on a trip to a local supermarket, unveiling the secrets of the ingredients used during your lesson. Learn about the ingredients used during your cooking class by exploring a Japanese supermarket!

Washoku represents not only a style of cooking but also a way of life that values mindfulness, respect for nature, and a deep connection to the seasons. It has even been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, highlighting its cultural significance and importance in Japanese society.