Baika-tei: Traditional Wagashi Shop in Tokyo, As Featured on Japan Tourism Agency’s YouTube Channel
Baika-tei, a wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) shop located in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo, is featured on the Japan Tourism Agency’s YouTube channel under the title “Wagashi – A Day of Wagashi Making Craftsman.” This shop, where we offer wagashi-making classes for foreign visitors in Tokyo led by skilled artisans, demonstrates impressive craftsmanship in the video. You will surely be amazed by the incredible techniques of the wagashi artisans, as seeing is believing.
Mr. Takeshi Inoue: Japan’s "Excellent Wagashi Artisan" and International Promoter of Wagashi
The video "Wagashi – A Day of Wagashi Making Craftsman" is also introduced on the English website of the Japan Wagashi Association. Baikatei’s representative, Mr. Takeshi Inoue, is one of only 150 certified "Excellent Wagashi Artisans" in all of Japan, recognized for his exceptional skill. He has also been awarded the title of "Tokyo Meister" by the Governor of Tokyo, an honor given to individuals with extraordinary technical skills who serve as role models for other artisans. Additionally, Mr. Inoue has represented Japan in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ "Japan Brand Promotion Project," where he taught wagashi-making in the UK. He truly embodies the excellence of Japanese confectionery craftsmanship.
Experience Wagashi-Making and Tea Ceremony in Tokyo
At "Fufumi-an," where the wagashi classes are held, you can receive instruction on wagashi making from Mr. Inoue and his apprentices. Afterward, you can enjoy matcha tea with the wagashi you made yourself in the tea room located on the second floor of Fufumi-an, making it a perfect experience for those new to tea ceremonies.
Join a Family-Friendly Wagashi-Making Class with English Guides in Tokyo
I have already participated in a wagashi-making class, and as you can see from the photo, I was able to make a fairly beautiful wagashi. This was thanks to the precise guidance of the highly skilled artisans and the specially designed wagashi-making kits provided by Baikatei. With small class sizes of up to 10 people, participants receive detailed and attentive instruction. Children aged 10 and older can join, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Additionally, with support from our English guides, this class is perfect for foreign travelers who don't speak Japanese or foreign residents in Japan.
Join Our Wagashi Workshop in Shinjuku and Create an Unforgettable Memory
Learning from top-level wagashi artisans in Japan and creating your own wagashi will undoubtedly become an unforgettable memory. The opportunity to make jo-namagashi (superior-quality fresh confectionery) is rare even for Japanese people. We encourage you to participate in the wagashi class during your trip to Japan.
Note: Wagashi with a moisture content of 30% or higher is called namagashi. Jo-namagashi refers to especially high-quality namagashi.
Book Experience
How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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