FAQs
ARE CLASSES IN ENGLISH?
My classes are generally in English because I entertain many visitors from around the world. However, with advanced notice, Japanese-language classes are available.
CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE MY SPECIAL DIETARY RESTRICTIONS OR NEEDS?
If you have food allergies or other restrictions, please mention these in the space provided when you book. We have done many vegetarian cooking classes as well. Happily, traditional Japanese cooking has many recipes.
WHAT IS THE CLASS SIZE?
In general, classes are limited to six guests. For private events we can accommodate up to seven. For groups larger than six, please use the CONTACT form.
CAN CHILDREN PARTICIPATE IN THE CLASSES?
Children 10 years old and up are more than welcome in my classes, but must be accompanied by a paying adult. To organize a group of children under 10 years old or babies, please book a private class.
ARE PRIVATE CLASSES AVAILABLE? HOW DO I BOOK A PRIVATE CLASS?
Private classes are available for Tokyo Classes and Countryside Classes. Prices start at ¥61,250 for 1-3 participants. To book a private class, select “book entire class” during booking. You will be able to see the price for more participants during the booking process, or you can use the CONTACT form to ask.
CAN I JOIN EVEN IF I HAVE NEVER COOKED JAPANESE DISHES?
Of course! I will explain about Japanese cuisine, unique ingredients and cultural aspects during the class. You will be able to fully enjoy your food experience while in Japan with deeper insight which you will learn in the class.
DO YOU ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS?
Yes we do: Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover and JCB. We also accept PayPal.
DO WE NEED TO PROVIDE ANY OF THE EQUIPMENT FOR THE DAY?
Everything you need for the class will be provided.
CAN I BRING SOMEONE TO JUST WATCH?
The Tokyo Classes are held in a private house in Tokyo, so I do not have a huge place to accommodate someone just to watch. All present work together as a single group when cooking, so I ask all the guests to be involved in the class.
WHAT ARE THE TERMS FOR BOOKING A CLASS?
Full payment by credit card or PayPal is required to confirm your booking. With confirmed payment, I will forward information on the meeting point and class location.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
To cancel a booking, please click the “View/cancel booking” button in your confirmation email.
Payment is fully refundable if we receive your cancellation notice at least 14 days prior to the confirmed class. If you cancel a class between 7 and 13 days before the lesson, 50% of the payment is refundable. Within 6 days of the class date, payment is non-refundable.
Full payment and/or gift certificates will be forfeited in the case of a no-show on the day of a confirmed class.
WILL I BE ABLE TO MAKE THE RECIPES AT HOME?
Of course! I will always give you printed recipes in the class.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY CLASS?
I recommend reserving as soon as you have your travel dates. In-person classes are only 6 guests, so availability may be limited.
CAN I CHOOSE THE MENU?
The first guest to book a Tokyo Class for a particular date, has the option of choosing the menu for the class. We will carefully select the menu for you for Countryside Classes and Survival Classes.
WHERE WILL WE MEET?
For Tokyo Classes, we will meet in front of JR Sendagaya station. Please refer to ACCESS. For Countryside Classes, we will welcome you at JR Choshi station. For Survival Series, we will meet at my kitchen directly. You will be provided more information when booking.
HOW LONG IS THE CLASS?
In general, a class takes about 3 hours from the meeting time.
WHAT DO CLASSES COST?
Each class has a different price. Please check price details on each class page. We’ve provided an OVERVIEW page that summarizes all our classes.