Japanese Cooking Class with Local Family in Takayama Old Town
Things to know
About the Activity
If you're seeking an authentic connection with a local family, this is for you! We are a warm, fun-loving family of four, deeply rooted in Takayama. Here, you won’t just learn to cook Japanese food—you’ll experience how locals live and savor life together. Our 200-year-old wooden townhouse stands on Old Town’s main street, yet stepping inside feels like entering a quiet world where time slows down. Its small quirks remind us of its beauty and history. We’ll welcome you with Japanese tea and snacks before guiding you in preparing a traditional meal in our kitchen. As we cook side by side, we’ll share stories of life in Takayama and living in harmony with nature and the seasons. Hisa and Bob pour their hearts into every class. This is more than a cooking lesson—it’s a moment of connection, culture, and feeling at home far from home. Feel free to write us your request on food or any restrictions, we are happy to accommodate as much as possible!3 hours
Private Tour
Mobile ticket
Availability and Prices
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Travel Date
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Travelers
Adult : 1
Inclusions & Exclusions
Food and drink : Dinner. If you chose the slot of 4:30 PM
Food and drink : Lunch. If you chose the slot of 10:00 AM
Food and drink : Tea and coffee. Coffee and/or Tea
Food and drink : Alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic Beverages
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Travel Itinerary
- Exclusive to travelers from this booking.
You’ll be welcomed into our private townhouse on the main street of Takayama’s Old Town, a historic home that has been in our family for generations. Normally closed to the public, this 200-year-old house was once a local clinic where many babies were born. We’ll guide you through its unique spaces—the former clinic and our traditional living quarters—while sharing stories about life in Takayama and how we embrace a slower, seasonal lifestyle in the Hida mountains.
We’ll begin with Japanese tea and delicate wagashi (traditional sweets), followed by a short introduction to Japanese home cooking. Next, you’ll slip into a traditional apron and step into our semi-outdoor kitchen, a peaceful space where we prepare meals much like our ancestors did. Together we’ll make dashi, explore key ingredients, and cook five seasonal dishes tailored to your preferences. To finish, enjoy fresh seasonal fruit prepared in a uniquely Japanese style for dessert.
This isn’t your average cooking class. It’s an intimate, heartwarming experience where you’ll connect with two old locals (both fluent in English!) and discover what it feels like to be welcomed into a real Japanese home far from the crowds.
View Location
Sample Menu
Main Courses
- Hoba Sushi - [Pescatarian/Gruten-Free] Trout salmon sushi rapped with a magnolia leaf. Limited to the early summer June-July
- Buri Teriyaki - Yellowtail (buri) cooked in a savory and sweet teriyaki sauce.
- Dashimaki Tamago - a classic Japanese rolled omelette infused with dashi
Starters
- Sesami Spinach - Spichach with Sesami seasonings
- Miso Soup - [Vegan or Pescatarian] Miso Soup with seasonal ingredients + Japanese Broth, "Dashi"
- Dashi Soup - [Vegan or Pescatarian + Gluten-free]Soup without Miso, called "Sumashi Shiru" in Japanese with seasonal ingredient
Meeting and Pickup
Starting point
1
Meetup points: In front of the Miffy shop on the crossing of Kamisannomachi St and Hirokoji StView Location
End point
1
Meetup points: In front of the Miffy shop on the crossing of Kamisannomachi St and Hirokoji StView Location
Pickup details
Customers must make their own way to and meet at the start point- Travelers CANNOT choose a custom pickup or meeting location.
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Language And Guide
Tour Guide Available In
- English
Ticket Details
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- One per booking
Ticket Redemption
No redemption point. This is a direct entry ticketCancellation & Refunds
Cancellable up to 24 hours before the travel date (local supplier time) for a full refund. A 100% cancellation penalty applies for cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the start time.- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Cancel at least 1 day before activity starts in Asia/Tokyo time to receive 100% refund.
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No reviews found!Operated by Hisa Takayama Private Tour GuideCreated on 11 Jul 2023Created on 18 Jul 2025
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