Wagashi Making Class in Tokyo: Learn from One of Japan’s 160 Excellent Wagashi Artisans in Kagurazaka

If you’re traveling to Japan and looking for an immersive cultural experience, discover the art of wagashi-making in Kagurazaka, Tokyo. In this hands-on class, you will learn directly from Takeshi Inoue, one of Japan’s leading wagashi artisans, who holds both the prestigious titles of Tokyo Meister and Excellent Wagashi Artisan.

With multilingual guide interpretation available in English, French, Spanish, and German, you can learn the techniques and cultural meaning behind these delicate Japanese sweets while creating your own seasonal wagashi.

After the class, enjoy the wagashi you have made with freshly whisked matcha in an authentic Japanese tea room—a rare opportunity to experience wagashi not only as a craft, but as part of Japan’s traditional tea culture.

Discover the Wagashi-Making Class in Kagurazaka

Baika-tei: A Time-Honored Tradition in Kagurazaka

Founded in 1935, Baika-tei has been a beloved name in Kagurazaka, known for crafting exquisite wagashi (Japanese sweets) using only the finest, all-natural ingredients. Baika-tei is especially famous for its signature Anko (sweet red bean paste), which is carefully prepared in 23 unique varieties to complement the outer layer of each seasonal wagashi perfectly.

Wagashi-Making Class at Fufumi-an: A Hidden Gem in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

The wagashi-making class takes place at Fufumi-an, a serene and beautifully designed tea house tucked away in the hidden backstreets of Yokotera-machi in Kagurazaka. Literary figures once loved this peaceful enclave during Japan’s Meiji era. The building itself, completed in August 2024, is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, featuring cypress wood, Sukiya-Zukuri architecture, and natural stone paving, all harmonizing with the Japanese environment.

The name Fufumi evokes the image of budding flowers, which ties perfectly into the nature-inspired designs of the wagashi you will create.

What Makes Wagashi Special?

Wagashi are more than just desserts—they are edible art that reflects the beauty and fleeting nature of Japan’s seasons. From their stunning colors and designs to their deliciously delicate taste, each piece of wagashi tells a story of its own. Traditionally made from plant-based ingredients such as rice, beans, and wheat, wagashi are low in calories but rich in carbohydrates, thanks to their sugar and starch content.

Unlock the Secrets of Traditional Japanese Sweets: Join a Wagashi-Making Class in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

What to Expect from the Wagashi-Making Class

During the class, you will create two types of Jo-Namagashi, a high-quality form of wagashi with over 30% moisture content, making them soft, delicate, and bursting with flavor. You’ll be guided by skilled artisans who will walk you through each step, from shaping the dough to crafting the intricate designs. Multilingual guide interpretation is available in English, French, Spanish, and German.

Once you’ve created your own wagashi, you’ll sit back and enjoy them with a cup of freshly whisked matcha in a traditional tea room—a perfect pairing of flavors.

The class is open to everyone, including children aged 10 and above, and is limited to a small group of up to 10 participants, ensuring personalized instruction and plenty of hands-on time.

Interested in trying it yourself?

Book the Wagashi Workshop in Kagurazaka.

Learn from a Tokyo Meister and Excellent Wagashi Artisan

The highlight of this experience is the chance to be taught by Takeshi Inoue, a Tokyo Meister and an Excellent Wagashi Artisan. Only 160 artisans in Japan hold the prestigious title of Excellent Wagashi Artisan, which is awarded by the National Wagashi Association after a rigorous examination process.

Whether you are learning directly from Inoue-san or his talented disciples, you’ll be guided by experts with a deep passion for wagashi. This class offers a rare chance to learn from those who have truly mastered the craft. Their dedication to preserving traditional wagashi-making methods while also innovating with new techniques makes this class a unique blend of tradition and creativity.

Your Own Handmade Wagashi

Not only will you gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture, but you’ll also have the chance to craft your very own seasonal sweets using a wagashi-making kit provided during the class. While the kit is for use on-site, the experience and the memory of making these beautiful confections will stay with you long after your trip to Japan. It’s a unique, hands-on experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Experience Wagashi as Part of the SHOGUN Cultural Experience

If you would like to explore wagashi as part of a broader journey into Japan’s traditional culture, this experience is also featured in our SHOGUN Cultural Experience in Kagurazaka.

The program combines wagashi making and matcha with a Kagurazaka cultural walk and a live kokyu performance by Daisuke Kiba, a musician who contributed to the soundtrack of the FX series SHOGUN.

It is designed for travelers who want to go beyond a single workshop and experience how Japanese sweets, matcha tea, music, and the cultural heritage of Kagurazaka connect within one story.

Discover the SHOGUN Cultural Experience

Reserve Your Spot Now!

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most beloved traditions in the heart of Kagurazaka. Whether you’re a traveler looking to deepen your connection with Japanese culture or simply curious about the art of wagashi, this class offers something for everyone. Book your spot now and discover the magic of wagashi-making at Fufumi-an with Baika-tei‘s master artisan.

Book Experience

Wagashi Workshop

Clothing Rental (Samue or Outdoor Wear)

How to Access Kagurazaka

Kagurazaka is centrally located in Tokyo and can be reached within about 30 minutes from many major areas, including Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, Shibuya, and Ueno.

Wagashi Making Class in Tokyo | Kagurazaka Workshop by Meister