Arrive in Matsumoto, a well-preserved castle town where traditional craftsmanship is part of daily life. Make your way to a casual, Tabelog-listed sushi or seafood restaurant selected for its approachable atmosphere and working kitchen.

Meet your guide, who will introduce the format of the class before demonstrating nigiri techniques. Watch as your guide shows you each step, explaining how to shape and press the rice and add toppings.

Then, take your turn — pressing, shaping, and assembling the rice and toppings using the methods demonstrated by your guide. When questions come up about ingredients or Japanese sushi culture, ask your guide during the session.

By the end of the 90-minute session, you will have a completed set of hand-shaped sushi pieces made by you. Sit down to eat what you have prepared, finishing the class with a direct result of your own work. The techniques you practiced, from rice handling to nigiri shaping, are ones you can try again in your own kitchen.