15 Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo: Tofu Workshop

Tofu Workshop: A Must-Try from Our Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo

Tofu Workshop: A Must-Try from Our Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo

This is the 12th installment in our Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo series, featuring experiences in and around Kagurazaka. This time, we introduce a hands-on tofu workshop where you can learn the traditional process directly from a certified Tofu Meister.

Tofu is made from remarkably simple ingredients — soybeans, water, and nigari, a traditional Japanese coagulant derived from seawater. In this workshop, you’ll discover how these simple ingredients are transformed into fresh tofu, then make it yourself under the guidance of an expert. The experience is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Best of all, the skills you learn are not limited to your time in Japan. Once you understand the basic process, you can try making tofu again at home — bringing a small part of your experience in Kagurazaka back with you.

Here’s what makes this tofu workshop a memorable way to experience Japanese food culture firsthand.

What You Will Gain from This Tour

1. Learn to make tofu from soybeans with a Tofu Meister from the renowned "Katsuno Tofu" shop.

2. Discover tofu-making techniques that you can easily replicate at home.

3. Taste freshly made tofu, Ganmodoki (deep-fried tofu balls), and Unohana (soy pulp) made with ingredients from Katsuno Tofu.

Meet the Tofu Meister Behind Kagurazaka’s Last Traditional Tofu Shop

The Tofu Workshop is led by Kai Moriyama, an employee of "Katsuno Tofu," the only remaining traditional tofu shop in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo. Founded in 1942, the shop has been supplying tofu and Atsuage (deep-fried tofu) to high-end Japanese restaurants for many years. Kai Moriyama is a certified Tofu Meister.

Create and Savor: A Hands-On Tofu Experience with Gourmet Delicacies

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to make tofu directly from Kai. Using high-quality soybeans, you’ll be amazed at how delicious the tofu you make yourself can be. After the tofu-making session, you’ll enjoy the tofu you made alongside Katsuno Tofu’s handmade Ganmodoki and Unohana. These delicacies have been a staple of gourmet dining in Kagurazaka’s Ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants) and washoku (Japanese cuisine) establishments for years. Be sure to savor their exquisite taste during this experience.

Want to try tofu making yourself?

Join our Tofu Workshop in Tokyo and learn the traditional process directly from a certified Tofu Meister at Katsuno Tofu in Kagurazaka. Want to try making tofu at home first? Follow our step-by-step guide, How to Make Tofu at Home: A Recipe by a Tofu Meister in Tokyo, Japan, based on the same traditional method taught in the workshop.

Bring Home Nigari and Create Lasting Memories with an Authentic Tofu Experience

Additionally, you can purchase "Nigari" to make tofu at Katsuno Tofu. With a shelf life of over five years, nigari is perfect for long-term storage. Take some home and enjoy authentic tofu-making in your own country!

Why not experience this valuable Tofu Workshop in the historic town of Kagurazaka, Tokyo? This immersive experience, filled with many elements of Japanese culture, is sure to become a cherished memory for a lifetime.

Tour Details

• Tour Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Location: Katsuno Tofu, near Iidabashi Station

• Price: JPY20,000 per person (exclusively for 3 guests) / JPY17,000 per person (for groups of 4–6 guests)

• Age Requirement: 6 years and above

• Booking Period: Reservations must be made at least 7 days in advance

• Accessibility: Unfortunately, wheelchairs are not permitted due to stairs inside the classroom.

• Meeting Point: The meeting location will be decided upon consultation with the customer. Hotel pickup is available for an additional fee.

Want to try tofu making yourself?

Join our Tofu Workshop in Tokyo and learn the traditional process directly from a certified Tofu Meister at Katsuno Tofu in Kagurazaka.

Want to try making tofu at home first? Follow our step-by-step guide, How to Make Tofu at Home: A Recipe by a Tofu Meister in Tokyo, Japan, based on the same traditional method taught in the workshop.

How to Access Kagurazaka

The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.