Taito City in 1 Day for Friends - Kagami-biraki (traditional sake-barrel opening) group ceremony and toast
In Collaboration with Sushi Meets Matcha (THE KABUKU inc.). Updated on February 19, 2026.
Step into the heart of Asakusa for a lively, hands-on sushi experience blending culture, skill, and celebration. Start with Kagami-biraki, a traditional sake barrel opening for new beginnings—chant “Yoisho!” and enjoy a memorable group toast (non-alcohol option: water or warm Japanese tea). Then learn nigiri essentials with friendly, expert guidance: shape rice with the right pressure, handle topp
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Sushi Meets Matcha (THE KABUKU inc.), inspired by the tour Tokyo Sushi Making Class : Sake Ceremony & Matcha Experience. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Kagami-biraki (traditional sake-barrel opening) group ceremony and toast
- Hands-on nigiri sushi technique training (rice shaping, fish placement)
- Festival-style ikura (salmon roe) gunkan experience with chants
- Simple matcha finish and photos to remember your creations
Itinerary
Day 1
90-minute hands-on sushi workshop in Asakusa including Kagami-biraki ceremony, nigiri training, festival-style ikura session, and matcha finish. Meeting point: Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (near Senso-ji).
Traditional Japanese Ceremony
“Kagami Biraki Sake Ceremony” — Begin with an authentic Japanese tradition: break open a sake barrel together while chanting “Yoisho, Yoisho, Yoisho!” and share a group toast. Non-alcohol option (water or warm Japanese green tea) is available.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet 10 minutes before start at Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (Asakusa, Taito City) to allow time for a quick intro and walk to the studio.
- If you prefer no alcohol, tell the instructor at arrival so the host can prepare a water or warm green tea toast.
- Have your phone or camera ready; the kagami-biraki moment is a short, photogenic part of the class.
Hands-On Sushi Making
“Learn Authentic Nigiri Techniques” — Practical instruction on proper hand techniques: pressing and shaping sushi rice, handling toppings, and placing fish cleanly to make beautiful nigiri. Beginner-friendly, step-by-step guidance from the instructor.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable, short-sleeved or easily-rolled sleeves — you will be handling rice and ingredients.
- If you have seafood allergies or dietary restrictions, tell the instructor before the session starts so substitutions can be managed.
- Bring a small towel or wet wipes for sticky fingers; staff will provide cleaning facilities but a personal wipe is useful between hands-on steps.
Festival-Style Super Ikura Experience
“Super Ikura Time - Japanese Festival Fun” — Make gunkan maki and pile salmon roe (ikura) mountain-high while chanting “Wasshoi, Wasshoi!” in a lively festival-style finish. Followed by a simple matcha serving to close the class and time for photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a lively, group-friendly moment for photos—stand near the table edge for the best view if you’re taking pictures.
- If you do not eat raw fish or roe, let the instructor know before this segment so you can make an alternative roll or enjoy extra nigiri instead.
- There will be a short matcha tasting at the end; if you prefer it sweeter, bring a small sugar packet or request a lighter serving.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Culture, Experience, Meal |
