Authentic Mochi Making: Niigata Style

Sasadango is a beloved delicacy of Niigata. Local herbs are mixed with rice flour to form a special dough. This dough encases flavorful red bean paste, creating a spherical mochi. Fragrant bamboo leaves serve as natural preservatives, ensuring the mochi stays fresh. Finally, the mochi is steamed, allowing all the ingredients to fuse together.

This delicious mochi has a significant place in the region’s culinary heritage. With origins dating back over 500 years to the Hundred Year War period, this sweet bamboo-leave-wrapped delight has stood the test of time. Passed down through generations, sasadango continues to be cherished as a symbol of Niigata’s rich history and traditions.

Travel back in time, guided by local women who hold the secrets to crafting this iconic treat. Learn the art of kneading rice dough and expertly wrapping it in bamboo leaves to create perfectly formed mochi. As you immerse yourself in this hands-on experience, indulge in the tales and legends of the region.

Complete your cultural excursion with a taste of tradition as you pair your freshly made sasadango with exquisite Japanese tea. Savor the delicate flavors and aromas, each sip transporting you deeper into the heart of Niigata’s culinary heritage.

What to expect:

  • Learn the art of making Sasadango from a local master.
  • Enjoy freshly steamed Sasadango mochi paired with Japanese tea.
  • Suitable for all ages, offering a delightful experience for both adults and children alike.

Included:
– Ingredients
– Instructor fee
– Venue fee

Not Included:
– Transportation to/from the meeting place

  • Booking deadline: 1 week before tour date
  • Special cancelation policy:
    ・6 day before the tour – 30% of total tour cost
    ・1 day before the tour – 50% of total tour cost
    ・Day of the tour – 100% of tour cost

Tour Information

Reservation
  • Availability
    All year
  • Duration
    2 hours
  • Capacity
    10
  • Minimum
    2
  • Age limit
    Over 4 years old
  • Fee
    5,400 JPY
  • Area
    Tokamachi City (十日町市)

Reservation form

    Reservation inquiry
    Tour Authentic Mochi Making: Niigata Style
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    【Reservation flow】
    After receiving your reservation request, we will confirm availability and contact you via e-mail with further details. This can take at least 2 business days. Your request will be confirmed via email, and simply submitting this form is not considered confirmation.
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    【Payment】
    1. Credit card (5% transfer fee)
    2. Bank transfer (fees to be handled by sender)
    ※Cash upon meeting may be accepted in certain circumstances.

    【Identity Confirmation】
    Please bring your passport or another form of identification in order to confirm your name and age at the time of your reservation.

    【Cancellation】
    The tour will be held, regardless of the weather. In the unlikely event of a natural disaster or cancellation of the tour, you will be contacted by e-mail.
    Unless specified otherwise, free cancellation until 24 hours prior to the tour start time.

    【Personal information】
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    BY JAPANESE LAW IT IS ILLEGAL FOR PERSONS UNDER 20 YEARS OF AGE TO DRINK ALCOHOL.
    WE DO NOT CONDONE DRUNK DRIVING. IN JAPAN THE LEGAL ALCOHOL LIMIT IS 0 (zero).
    WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ACCIDENTS OCCURRING BEFORE OR AFTER THE TOUR.