Expert Soba-Making Experience: Private Lesson with a Master in Tokyo
Overview
Handcraft traditional Japanese comfort food, soba noodles, in the authentic manner with an acknowledged master. Toranosuke Katayama, a master chef and one of Japan’s leading soba experts, leads this exclusive private lesson in the heart of upscale Toranomon. Soba, a staple in Japanese cuisine, is beloved for its taste and balanced nutrition. In this experience, not only will you savor some of Japan's finest soba, you'll learn to make it yourself. Enjoy the unique opportunity to craft soba using authentic ingredients and methods that have been passed down for over 400 years.
Highlights
- Learn soba-making from Toranosuke Katayama, chairman of the Soba Preservation Association of Japan
- Create gourmet Nihachi soba using Katayama’s unique recipe
- A group-focused experience ideal for enjoying with family and friends
- Can be made gluten-free with 100% buckwheat flour upon request
Key Information
Description
Learn the art of soba from a master: Toranosuke Katayama Soba is not just a Japanese culinary classic like sushi or tempura — it has its own rich cultural significance, such as being the traditional meal on December 31, known as "toshi-koshi soba" or "year-passing soba." Toranosuke Katayama, chairman of the Soba Preservation Association of Japan, has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of soba. His in-depth research has revived traditional soba-making techniques lost to modern mass production. Katayama, a master soba chef and leading authority, is well known in Japan for his work restoring ancient soba production methods, including the "ippon-bo-maru-noshi" technique, which brings out the noodle's full flavor. In this experience, you'll learn this technique and more from Katayama himself. The experience begins with Katayama explaining the history and significance of soba in Japan, accompanied by a photo tour that covers everything you need to know. You'll then watch his expert demonstration of the soba-making process. Guests will also have the chance to taste Katayama’s famous "Van Gogh Nihachi Soba," a dish he created after being inspired by the emotional impact of Van Gogh's paintings. After numerous revisions, Katayama perfected this dish, which you’ll get to enjoy after your own noodles are prepared. Once your noodles are ready, it's time to eat! Savor your freshly made soba with Katayama’s special broth, traditionally served with grated daikon radish, which complements the soba’s delicate flavors better than wasabi.