Minato City in 1 Day for Families - Hands-on kawaii character bento making (Panda, Brown Bear, or seasonal option)
In Collaboration with Tokyo Cute Bento. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Learn to make charming character bento in a small indoor class near Akasaka. Choose from Panda, Brown Bear, or a seasonal bento. Vegetarian, vegan and allergy-friendly options are available when requested at booking. Class includes ingredients and supplies. Infant seats unavailable; not wheelchair accessible. Admission ticket will be checked at the starting location.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tokyo Cute Bento, inspired by the tour Tokyo Cute Bento Cooking Class – Make a Kawaii Character Lunchbox. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hands-on kawaii character bento making (Panda, Brown Bear, or seasonal option)
- Indoor studio near Akasaka — comfortable in rain or heat
- Vegetarian, vegan and allergy-aware options on request
- Optional 30-minute Akasaka tour available after class (free add-on when available)
Itinerary
Day 1
Typical 2-hour session. Start time shown is the session start; please arrive at the meeting point at the scheduled session start.
Meet at the studio & check-in
Instructor greets the group, checks admission tickets, confirms menu choice and any dietary requests, and covers safety/hygiene rules before the workshop begins.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at the meeting point at the session start time; the instructor will check your admission ticket on arrival.
- If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, nut/wheat/milk allergies), confirm these at booking and again at check-in.
- Nearest subway access: Akasaka Station or Akasaka-mitsuke Station — allow extra time for families with small children.
Welcome demonstration & choose your bento menu
Short instructor demonstration of techniques (shaping rice, cutting nori, simple side dishes). Participants confirm whether they will make Panda, Brown Bear, or the seasonal bento.
Tips from local experts:
- Children can watch short demos before doing hands-on steps; advise ages 4+ for active participation, younger children may need adult assistance.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-clean clothing — you will be using food ingredients and simple cooking tools.
- If you prefer to use your own phone for photos, keep it nearby during the demo; instructors pause briefly for shared photo moments.
Hands-on bento making (main session)
Guided, step-by-step assembly and basic cooking for the character bento. Instructors assist with shaping, cutting nori, arranging side dishes and food safety. This is the core hands-on portion.
Tips from local experts:
- Work at your own pace — instructors will assist with any steps that are difficult for small hands.
- If you need to avoid specific ingredients, remind the instructor at the start of the hands-on session so alternatives can be used.
- Keep a small towel and wet wipes handy for children — studio will have basic cleanup supplies but having your own makes transitions faster.
Photo time, packing and short tidy-up
Take photos of your finished bento, pack it for takeaway, and participate in a brief group cleanup. Instructors provide tips on arranging bentos for transport.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small insulated bag if you plan to carry your bento with you — it helps keep items secure for travel.
- Studio space is indoor; leave larger bags or strollers folded if possible to keep the workspace clear.
- Ask the instructor for quick packing tips to keep delicate decorations intact while you travel.
Wrap-up, Q&A and class end
Final tips from the instructor on repeating recipes at home, answer questions, and official session close. Official 2-hour session ends here.
Tips from local experts:
- Class officially ends at the close time; allow a few extra minutes if you need to ask specific follow-up questions.
- Infant seats are unavailable and the studio is not wheelchair accessible — plan assistance if needed for arrival and departure.
- If you booked a free Akasaka tour add-on, confirm availability with the instructor before leaving the studio.
Optional: 30-minute Akasaka mini-tour (free add-on when available)
A short guided walk around nearby Akasaka to see the neighborhood and local landmarks. This add-on is complimentary for a limited time but may be unavailable on days with adjacent bookings — confirm with the instructor at check-in.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm availability of the free Akasaka tour with the instructor during check-in; it may be unavailable on busy days.
- The mini-tour is a short, stroller-friendly walk — bring comfortable shoes and a light jacket if the weather is cool.
- If you have more than one adult in your party, designate a meeting time and place in case members split up after the tour.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Experience, Break, Culture |
