surugacho-hiroshige-NDL

Tokyo Omakase
Sushi Class®︎

Explore authentic sushi culture with a personal touch.
Having hosted more than thousands of guests,
I provide a sushi making class, reimagined through dialogue.

Our top selling sushi classes in Tokyo

Coming to Tokyo ? Check out our non-touristy experience

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Why guests choose us!?

Learn the why, not just the how

Every step has a reason. From the eight movements of shaping nigiri to the way sushi rice is seasoned, I explain the thinking behind Edomae technique as you practice it.

Patient, step-by-step teaching

No shortcuts and no rushing. I teach at your pace and make sure everyone understands before we move on, so first-timers and children can follow with confidence.

Knowledge you take home

You leave with more than a meal: the history of sushi, a deeper understanding of fish and rice, and skills you can practice in your own kitchen.

Portrait of Kenji Kitabayashi, founder and sushi evangelist of Tokyo Omakase Sushi Class

About Me

Founder/Sushi Evangelist

Tokyo Omakase Sushi Class®︎

Fully customized private sushi making classes for sushi lovers.

Hello and welcome! Over ten years ago, while working at an accounting firm, I began hosting international travelers through Couchsurfing. Meeting people from around the world, making new friends, and improving my English skills became a passion of mine.

One day, a guest from Italy stayed at my home and prepared an authentic risotto. I was deeply impressed by the rich flavors and the skillful way they cooked. In return, I made traditional Japanese yakisoba, and my guests were delighted. These experiences made me realize the incredible power of cultural exchange through food. That’s when I started dreaming of opening a cooking class for travelers.

In 2019, I made a big decision—I left the accounting firm and became an independent guide. Just as I was excited about this new journey, the world was hit by the pandemic. All my bookings were canceled, and I faced an uncertain future. Instead of giving up, I used this time wisely to learn the art of sushi-making. I believed that this skill would add unique value to my guiding services. The dream of hosting a cooking class for travelers resurfaced, and in 2022, I spent a year studying at a sushi school. By then, more than a decade had passed since I first started Couchsurfing.

For many guests, visiting Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While guiding, I noticed that many travelers come here for special occasions—honeymoons, birthdays, and other milestones. That’s why I dedicate myself to creating experiences that will become cherished memories for a lifetime. One of my greatest joys is staying connected with my guests as a friend from Tokyo, even after they return home.

In 2023, alongside my guiding work, I finally launched my sushi-making class. Since then, I have welcomed many couples, and I often ask myself: “What can I do to make their experience even more meaningful?”

A turning point came in April 2024 when I got married. Through this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of both the joys and challenges of marriage. My wife had struggled with alcohol dependency during the pandemic, and helping her overcome it made me reflect on the essence of partnership. It was something I had never thought about when I was single.

I came to believe that the true joy of marriage lies not only in being together but in overcoming challenges as a team.

This philosophy is reflected in my sushi class. Making sushi together is something completely new for most participants, and I encourage couples to enjoy this challenge together. My class is designed to help strengthen your bond through a fun and interactive experience.

Even after you return home, I hope you will continue to cherish your memories of Japan. I want you to feel as if you have a friend in Tokyo.

Come and experience a truly special journey with me. With my years of experience and passion, I will create a customized tour just for you. Explore hidden gems, indulge in delicious food, immerse yourself in the culture, and create unforgettable memories. I am here to make your trip truly exceptional.

Let’s make your time in Tokyo an experience to remember!

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