If you’re traveling to Japan (and are a sushi lover, duh!), you have to learn how to make sushi the right way – aka the Japanese way! While sushi has become a staple worldwide, it’s a traditional Japanese dish, and it’s just better over there; I’ve tried it and can confirm.
I love sushi and have eaten really good ones all over the world during my travels, but nothing compares to preparing your very own sushi roll in the country where it originated. Bucket list item: check!
I highly recommend joining a sushi-making class because it’s not only a super fun activity, but it will introduce you to the traditional ways of making it from scratch.
You’ll learn about the various types of sushi from a professional, and also get insights about its history. It’s one of the best experiences to try in Tokyo!
I’ve already written a whole post about the best cooking classes in Tokyo, where you can learn how to make ramen and gyoza. However, most people coming to Japan want to learn how to make sushi, and I listened.
Below, you’ll find a compilation of the very best sushi making classes in Tokyo, hand-picked by me to ensure you have a memorable experience. Check them out!
➥ But…why should you trust me? I’ve been in the travel industry for a decade, and being able to identify extraordinary experiences is my superpower. Besides, I’ve been to many cooking classes around the world (and I’m a sushi lover!) so I know exactly what to look for in tours to make sure they’re worthy, high-quality, and professional.
So, get your chopsticks ready, because we’re about to unveil the best sushi cooking classes in Tokyo. Drumrolls please…!
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend the platforms for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
However, this time I booked my top pick on airKitchen, a website that connects travelers with local cooking experiences all over Japan.
Are you in a rush? These are the top classes:
| THE BEST CLASS | Sushi Making Tokyo Roll Cooking Class |
| FISH MARKET TOUR | Tsukiji Fish Market Visit with Sushi Making |
| SUSHI + RAMEN CLASS | Ramen and Sushi Making Class |
| PRIVATE CLASS | Private Sushi Making Tokyo Roll |
OUR PICK: The BEST Sushi Making Class in Tokyo
If you’re curious about Japanese food culture but don’t want to just eat sushi, make it yourself! I joined the Sushi Making Tokyo Roll and Authentic Japanese Sushi Class in Japan and had such a fun time learning the ropes (and rolling the rolls).
This two-hour sushi-making class in Asakusa is just a few minutes from the famous Senso-ji Temple, so it’s super easy to plan a day around it (I personally really like this area of the city).
The class kicks off with a lighthearted presentation about sushi culture—yes, there’s even a little quiz (don’t worry, it’s all for fun). The instructors were hilarious and super knowledgeable, always ready to help if your sushi started looking more like a burrito (which, yes, mine did…)
We made two types of sushi: Nigiri (the classic fish-on-rice one) and Maki rolls. I had no idea how tricky it actually is to get the rice just right and roll it properly, but the instructors broke it down in a way that made it doable—even for first-timers like me.
The best part? You get to eat your creations after, and honestly, I was surprised at how good mine turned out. The vibe was relaxed and social—everyone was swapping travel stories while trying not to squish their sushi.
The class also accommodates a bunch of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free—huge bonus since most sushi classes don’t.
I booked the class through airKitchen, a website that connects travelers with local cooking experiences all over Japan. You’ll also find other cooking classes in Tokyo on their page.
➤ Why is this the best activity? This class offers an introduction to Japanese culture and the role of sushi in it, enriching the experience. It offers alternatives for most diets, which is rare in a sushi class, and it’s vouched for by over 1,500 happy participants who left a 5-star review. It’s also affordable while offering a great quality for the products.
Read what the reviews say:
“The whole experience was top class – well presented in a professional yet pleasent manner Kento and Momo were hands on and helped throughtout. We really felt that we learnt the technique of making sushi and the Sake flight to accompany is also recommended. Also met some other fun students. Lots to do around the area prior or after the class.”
Carl_E – Read more reviews
This sushi making class includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, an instructor, and a sushi meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Sushi Cooking Classes
▶️ Dive into a 3-Hour Small-Group Sushi Making Class in Tokyo to master the essentials of one of Japan’s most beloved dishes. Craft sushi fillings with precision, including fresh fish and flavorful soup stock. You’ll also perfect the art of cooking and seasoning sushi rice.
With all the ingredients ready, roll up a trio of delectable sushi varieties. They include nigiri, inari, and tekka rolls, all of which will impress your taste buds. Taste your sushi creations, accompanied by zesty wasabi, miso soup, and soothing green tea.
This sushi class takes place at the same cooking school where we joined a class of varied traditional Japanese dishes, and we had a great experience, so no doubt this is also a really good workshop.
This sushi class includes: A cooking class and a meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Tokyo: Sushi Making Class in a Happi Coat near a Famous Spot is led by a sushi professional, who will teach you the step-by-step process to make nigiri sushi from scratch.
Put on a traditional costume coat, Happi, and take your place in a very traditional setting, where you’ll apply all the newly learned techniques to craft the perfect sushi roll, using fresh ingredients including tuna and salmon.
This workshop is beginner-friendly, and it can be adapted to suit vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
This sushi class includes: All ingredients, an instructor, and a meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Fish Market Tour with Sushi Making Class
Immerse yourself in the sushi culture of Tokyo with this Tsukiji Fish Market Visit with Sushi Making Experience.
Start your day with a guided tour of the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in the world. Gain insights into the intricate processes of catching, distributing, and selling seafood as your guide explains them in detail.
Then it’s time to become a sushi master! Join an expert sushi chef for a hands-on workshop in which you’ll learn the art of crafting perfect nigiri sushi. Cap off the experience with a delightful lunch, and relish the sushi you’ve prepared with your own hands.
This class includes: Market tour, a guide, a sushi-making class, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Learn How To Make Sushi and Ramen in One Day
The Ramen and Sushi Making! Two Popular Menu in One Class! is the cooking class if you’re interested in Japan’s most iconic dishes. In merely 3 hours you’ll discover all the secrets behind the making of perfect sushi rolls and ramen soup, getting hands-on demonstrations.
An instructor and the friendly staff will guide you through the steps to prepare authentic chashu ramen, and nigiri sushi. You’ll then sample your creations paired with a drink.
This class includes: All ingredients, an instructor, and a meal of sushi and ramen. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Nigiri Making Class + Sake Tasting in Tokyo
This Tokyo: Sushi Cooking Class with Sake Tasting offers a great combo to sample two of the most popular Japanese products: sushi and sake.
Start by shopping at a local supermarket, where you’ll learn how to choose fresh ingredients before heading to a professional kitchen, where your class will take place.
A professional cook will teach you to prepare sushi rolls, miso soup, dashimaki tamago, and eggplant dengaku. The class will be followed by a sake tasting of four premium varieties, where you’ll learn the different flavors of the beloved drink.
The class is hands-on, and there’s a kids’ playroom on-site for the families.
This class includes: All ingredients, a meal, and sake tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Private Tokyo Sushi Making Class
This Private Sushi Making Tokyo Roll and Authentic Japanese Sushi is a hands-on experience in the heart of Asakusa, mere steps from the Sensoji Temple.
The class is led by a professional chef, who will teach you all the steps, ingredients, and secret techniques to prepare authentic nigiri and maki sushi rolls.
The cooking class is exclusive to your group of 15 people, ensuring you have a personalized experience and create fun memories with your family or friends.
This sushi class includes: An instructor, all ingredients, and a meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
