FAQ – Atelier SUSHI Hands-On Sushi Workshop
General Questions
Q: What is Atelier SUSHI?
A: Atelier SUSHI is a hands-on sushi-making workshop in central Kyoto. Guests learn to make nigiri and maki sushi in a small-group setting, guided by an English-speaking instructor, all within a beautiful recently renovated venue adorned with commissioned artwork.
Q: Where is Atelier SUSHI located?
A: We are located near Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the main hotel districts in Kyoto, making it easy to combine your sushi workshop with sightseeing in the city. Directions to our venue can be found on the Location page of our site.
Q: Who can join the workshop?
A: Our workshops are designed for beginners and anyone interested in learning sushi-making, including families, couples, and solo travelers.
Q: How long is the workshop?
A: The workshop lasts approximately 90 minutes, including hands-on sushi-making and tasting your creations.
Q: How many people are in a workshop?
A: Standard workshops have small groups to ensure a personal experience. We can accommodate up to 9 guests for a standard workshop. For larger groups, please contact us via the Contact page or email: contact@atelierthe99sushi.com
Experience & Skill Level
Q: Do I need prior sushi-making experience?
A: No experience is required. Our instructors guide you step by step, from shaping the rice to rolling sushi, making it perfect for first-timers.
Q: What type of sushi will I make?
A: You will make both nigiri (hand-pressed sushi) and maki rolls (rolled sushi), then enjoy tasting them during the workshop.
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 options are only available for Private Workshops. We can accommodate gluten-free, pescatarian, kosher, and halal diets if informed at the time of booking.
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 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.
Q: Can alcohol be consumed during the workshop?
A: Sake 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: 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: 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!