A new onigiri-making experience for international visitors has launched at a kominka (traditional Japanese townhouse) with over 100 years of history in Kita Ward, Tokyo. The program, conducted in English, is designed to immerse inbound tourists in Japanese food culture—letting them learn about, cook, and taste one of Japan's most iconic foods: the onigiri.
Background
The experience is part of a "Rice Innovation" initiative aimed at sharing the appeal of Japanese rice and domestic ingredients with overseas visitors, while also supporting local agricultural producers and regional revitalization. The program was developed in collaboration with Yamatane Corporation, a rice distribution company, through a capital and business partnership that began in November 2025. One of the goals of that partnership is the promotion of agri-tourism as a means of contributing to regional revitalization and supporting farmers.
Japan's rice industry faces ongoing challenges including a lack of successors and declining domestic consumption. At the same time, the growing number of inbound tourists brings with it a rising desire to authentically "experience" Japanese culture. The initiative seeks to bridge both by promoting the value of Japanese rice to the world, with the following goals:
- Supporting agricultural producers across Japan
- Generating economic benefits for local communities
- Raising international awareness of Japanese food culture
Experience Overview
"First Onigiri-Making Experience"
The program takes place in a kominka with more than 100 years of history, offering a multi-layered experience of learning, cooking, and tasting in an authentic traditional Japanese setting.
Highlights of the experience:
- Learn about the appeal of Japanese rice and food ingredients, along with their cultural background, all explained in English
- Make onigiri rice balls inside a 100-year-old kominka, guided in English throughout
- Wear a traditional kappo-gi (Japanese cooking apron) during the session and take home a tenugui (hand towel) as a keepsake
- Browse and purchase Japanese miscellaneous goods curated by expert buyers
Venue: Takinogawa Inariyu Nagaya (〒114-0023, 6-27-17 Takinogawa, Kita-ku, Tokyo)
Access:
- 6-minute walk from Nishisugamo Station (Toei Mita Line)
- 6-minute walk from Itabashi Station (Saikyo Line)
How to Book
The experience is available through the following platforms:
Viator (international OTA for inbound visitors):
Onigiri Rice Ball Making Experience in Historic Tokyo
Club Tourism Official Website (Japanese/English):
https://tour.club-t.com/tour/detail?p_course_no2=J1726
