FAQ – Atelier SUSHI Hands-On Sushi Workshop
General Questions
Q: What is Atelier SUSHI?
A: Sushi-making workshops in Kyoto are hands-on experiences where participants learn to make nigiri and maki sushi in a small-group setting. At Atelier SUSHI, our classes are conducted in English within a beautifully renovated venue featuring commissioned artwork, giving guests a premium, immersive experience.
Q: Where is Atelier SUSHI located?
A: Many sushi workshops in Kyoto are located near central sightseeing areas. Atelier SUSHI is conveniently situated near Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the main hotel districts, making it easy to combine your workshop with sightseeing. Directions are available on our Location page.
Q: Who can join the workshop?
A: Sushi-making workshops in Kyoto welcome beginners, families, couples, and solo travelers. All skill levels are accommodated with guided, hands-on instruction.
Q: How long is the workshop?
A: Typical sushi workshops last around 90–120 minutes, including hands-on sushi-making and tasting. Atelier SUSHI’s sessions last approximately 90 minutes.
Q: How many people are in a workshop?
A: Small-group workshops provide a more personal experience. Atelier SUSHI accommodates up to 9 guests per session for standard classes. For larger groups, please contact us via the Contact page or email: contact@atelierthe99sushi.com
Q: Is this a cooking class?
A: Sushi workshops are hands-on cooking experiences focused on sushi-making techniques rather than general cooking. Atelier SUSHI offers an original, small-group workshop emphasizing technique and individual guidance.
Experience & Skill Level
Q: Do I need prior sushi-making experience?
A: No experience is required. Most workshops guide participants step by step. Atelier SUSHI expert instructors lead guests from shaping rice to rolling sushi.
Q: What type of sushi will I make?
A: Workshops cover nigiri (hand-pressed) and maki rolls (rolled sushi). At Atelier SUSHI guests enjoy tasting their creations after the session.
Q: Will we prepare rice or slice the fish?
A: No preparation of rice or fish is required. The sushi rice is already cooked, and the fish is pre-sliced, so guests can focus entirely on learning the techniques of shaping and rolling sushi. This ensures a hands-on experience while maintaining safety and hygiene.
Q: Are vegetarian or dietary options available?
A: Vegetarian and vegan options are only available for Private Workshops. We can accommodate gluten-free, pescatarian, kosher, and halal diets if informed at the time of booking.
Private Workshops
Q: Does Atelier SUSHI offer private workshops?
A: Yes. For guests seeking a more exclusive experience, we offer private sushi-making workshops where our traditional Kyoto townhouse is reserved entirely for your party. These sessions provide a quiet sanctuary away from the city's crowds, ensuring the undivided attention of our instructor and a pace tailored specifically to your group.
Q: What makes the private experience different from a standard workshop?
A: While our standard workshops are a wonderful way to meet fellow travelers, the private session is designed for those who value tranquility and personal space. By booking privately, you secure the entire venue—adorned with our commissioned artwork—as your own personal studio. It is the definitive way to experience Japanese culture in a sophisticated, high-touch setting.
Q: How many guests are included in a private workshop?
A: Our private experience is curated for groups of up to five guests at a flat rate. This is the ideal size for maintaining a relaxed, intimate atmosphere within our atelier. Whether you are a couple on a honeymoon or a small family, the flat rate ensures the space remains yours alone for the duration of the class.
Q: Can you accommodate groups larger than five people?
A: We can welcome up to nine guests in total for a private session. For groups of six to nine, the first five guests are covered by the private flat rate, and each additional guest is charged at our standard workshop price. If you would like to book for more than five people, please contact us directly so we can ensure everything is perfectly prepared for your party.
Reservations & Policies
Q: How do I book a workshop?
A: You can book directly on our website via the Reservations link.
Q: Can I change or cancel my booking?
A: Reservations can be changed or canceled up to 48 hours before the workshop. For bookings made via third-parties such as OTAs (TripAdvisor, Viator, GetYourGuide, Klook etc.), please follow their policies and contact their support teams for any enquiries you may have related to changing or cancelling reservations as we are unable to assist with such matters.
Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: No, all materials and ingredients are provided. However, we recommend arriving hungry as you’ll be making plenty of sushi!
Practical Information
Q: Is the workshop in English?
A: Yes, all workshops are conducted in English.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Aprons are provided.
Q: Is there parking nearby?
A: Paid parking is available, however please make your own arrangements if coming by car.
Q: How do I get to the workshop from major attractions?
A: Atelier SUSHI is a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion District. Help with locating us and directions can be found on our Location page.
Toddlers & Young Children
Q: Can children participate?
A: Absolutely! Children aged 5 and above are welcome and are some of our finest sushi creators!
Q: Are toddlers allowed to attend the workshop?
A: Yes, toddlers are welcome, but parents are kindly asked to consider whether their child is comfortable in a group setting and how their behavior may affect other guests. Toddlers must remain in push chairs and are not allowed on a parent’s lap, as sharp knives are used in the workshop.
Q: Who is responsible for children’s behavior?
A: Parents or guardians are fully responsible for their children at all times. Children must always be accompanied by a participating adult, remain seated throughout the workshop, keep their sushi-making area clean, and avoid dropping ingredients on the floor.
Q: Can children handle knives?
A: Children under 12 are required to have their sushi sliced by a parent or guardian. If a staff member feels a child is not handling a knife safely, the staff or parent will be asked to take over slicing.
Attendance & Participation
Q: Can non-participants attend the workshop?
A: All attendees must be paying participants. The only exception is a Japanese-licensed guide accompanying a tour group.
Q: Can alcohol be consumed during the workshop?
A: Sake and beer is available for purchase and may be consumed during the workshop. We do not allow for alcohol brought to the workshop to be consumed on the premises. We kindly ask our patrons to drink in moderation to ensure the comfort of other guests and staff.
Venue & Artwork
Q: What should I know about the workshop venue?
A: The workshop is decorated with commissioned artwork. Guests must treat the venue with respect. Any damage to artwork or interior will be charged to the responsible guest.
Q: When should I arrive for the workshop?
A: Doors open 15 minutes before the start of a workshop. Early access is not possible as staff are in preparation.
Q: Are there neighborhood considerations?
A: The workshop is in a peaceful residential area. Please be mindful of neighbors, and kindly refrain from sitting or standing outside the workshop or adjacent homes for extended periods of time.
Health & Safety
Q: What if I am feeling unwell?
A: A: If you feel unwell, please refrain from attending to avoid spreading infections. Full refunds are available for cancellations made 48 hours prior.
Q: Are there other safety considerations?
A: Guests should follow instructor guidance, wash or sanitize hands before handling ingredients, and treat tools and workspace respectfully.
Still have questions?
You can visit our Contact Us page for more information, or email us directly at contact@atelierthe99sushi.com. We’ll be happy to assist!