Yamanakako Village sits within the Fuji Five Lakes region at the base of Mount Fuji, and arriving here sets the tone for a grounded, local experience. You make your way to a casual, Tabelog-listed sushi or seafood restaurant in the village — not a high-end counter, but the kind of neighbourhood spot where sushi is part of everyday dining. The relaxed atmosphere makes the session accessible and welcoming.

Once inside, your guide begins demonstrating nigiri technique, showing you how to shape vinegared rice, control pressure and form, and place each topping. Then it is your turn — you replicate each step, shaping rice portions by hand, pressing each piece, and assembling nigiri following your guide’s instructions.

Your guide leads the session in English, keeping the process clear and the pace steady. You can ask questions about technique, ingredients, or anything that comes up during the session.

By the end of the 90 minutes, you have produced a plate of nigiri sushi made with your own hands. You sit down and eat the sushi you shaped, finishing the class with a direct and satisfying result of the skills you practised.