Roll, Taste, Discover: An Inside Look at Sushi Making Class EMI

Located in Hiroo, Tokyo, Sushi Making Class EMI invites curious travelers to roll up their sleeves and discover the artistry of Edomae sushi. Guided by a seasoned sushi chef with Michelin-star experience and supported by friendly English-speaking staff, guests are welcomed into a hands-on journey that blends tradition, culture, and fun.

From learning about the history and how to perfect 3 distinct types of sushi to donning a sushi chef’s uniform and taking photos, each moment balances learning and laughter. With optional sake tastings and a selection of Japanese soft drinks, this immersive workshop is more than a cooking class; it’s a celebration of Japan’s culinary spirit.

Join us in our next interview to discover how rolling sushi by hand can open the door to Japan’s food culture, traditions, and joyful everyday flavors.

Hi, please start by introducing yourself and provide a brief overview of Sushi Making Class EMI. Where does the name come from?

Hi, I’m Rin Miyamoto, a sushi guide here at EMI. EMI provides a full sushi-making experience in two hours. We start from preparing the sushi rice to making Hosomaki (rolls), Nigiri (hand-formed), and Gunkan (battleship) sushi. All ingredients are sourced from Japan and carefully prepared by our sushi master. The character ”咲” means to bloom, and its pronunciation “EMI” means to smile. We would like to see our customers’ smiles bloom in our class.

What inspired the creation of the class, and could you tell us about your personal inspiration for taking up your role as a guide?

Our love of Japanese Craftsmanship culture is what inspired us to start the workshop. Craftsmen in Japan are called “Shokunin” and are known for their meticulous attention to detail. Sushi masters are called “Sushi-shokunin,” which implies their dedication to their craft. By learning their craft, we can appreciate and enjoy the sushi experience better. We aim to showcase this craftsmanship through this workshop and share with our guests secrets that are usually hidden behind the counter.

For first-time visitors, what can they expect when they walk into a Sushi Making Class EMI session?

Expect to make premium-quality sushi, the kind you can only get in over-the-counter sushi places in Japan. The rice will be prepared for your arrival, and the fish will be in pristine condition. However, don’t feel overwhelmed, as native English-speaking guides like myself will guide you through the entire process step-by-step.

Could you tell us about the experience and why it is popular among foreign guests? Are there any age limits for the experience, and how many guests are able to join each course?

Here is our course overview. It is 1 hour and 45 minutes long.

1. Introduction to the history of Sushi
2. Sushi Quiz (with prizes!)
3. Sushi-making demonstration from our sushi master
4. Hands-on sushi-making experience
5. Time for photos and enjoying your handmade sushi

I believe our guests enjoy the authentic, tasty sushi and the fact that they feel at home with the knowledgeable English-speaking guides.

We recommend the workshop for children aged 6 and above, but younger children are also welcome to join.

• For children aged 6 and above, the cost will be the same as for one participant.
• For children under 6 who do not require their own sushi-making set and will participate together with a parent, there will be no additional charge.

Can you please tell us more about the chef? What is his experience, and why did he choose to teach sushi making to foreign travelers or residents?

After graduating from culinary school, our chef has trained extensively at high-end sushi restaurants in Tokyo, where he developed a deep appreciation for authentic sushi craftsmanship.

Through his experience, he’s noticed that sometimes Japanese culinary traditions can be misunderstood or misrepresented, even unintentionally. He feels a strong sense of responsibility to share the genuine techniques and cultural significance of sushi with people around the world. By teaching foreign travelers and residents, he hopes to use his skills to promote a deeper understanding of authentic Japanese sushi culture and contribute positively to Japan’s cultural exchange with the world.

Which type of sushi (nigiri, gunkan, or rolled) do guests usually find the most challenging?

It is the roll. The demonstration by our sushi master looks easy, but it is actually the most challenging. Rest assured, we won’t let you fail!!

What do you hope Sushi Making Class EMI contributes to visitors’ understanding of Japan and Japanese culture?

We hope the experience serves as a catalyst for our guests to delve deeper into Japanese culture and explore the intricate details of craftsmanship. Eating good food and going sightseeing are all wonderful aspects of traveling, but by exploring the love and spirit behind crafts, you can unlock a new level of appreciation for the culture.

Are they’re any talks of expanding the selection of courses, or possibly offering new experiences in the future?

Nothing as of now, but if we do, the spirit will remain the same!

Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers here at Arigato Travel?

Thank you for reading, and we cannot wait to see you here at our workshop EMI.

Thank you, Rin san, for joining us and sharing the story behind Sushi Making Class EMI. This is more than making sushi; it’s a chance to connect with Japanese food culture, try your hand at authentic techniques, and savor the flavors you create. Whether you’re rolling your first maki or tasting a perfect nigiri, every moment is memorable. Next time you’re in Tokyo, dive in, roll up your sleeves, and experience the joy of sushi-making for yourself.

Read more about Sushi Making Class EMI on:

Website: https://creave.co.jp/news/news241223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creave_jp/

X: https://x.com/creave_jp

Featured Photo Credit: Sushi Making Class EMI

Looking to add a Sushi Making Class to your next Japan itinerary? Our Tailored Travel team is ready to create a perfect, personalized itinerary just for you, without the stress!