Japan has become a hotspot for international tourists, welcoming a record-breaking 3,081,600 visitors in March, as reported by the Japan National Tourism Organization. This figure surpasses the pre-pandemic numbers of March 2019 by 11.6%, setting a new historical high for the month.
A significant factor driving this tourism boom is the depreciation of the yen, with it recently hovering near 150 yen per dollar, marking the weakest yen in approximately 34 years. For tourists, this translates to an exceptional opportunity to enjoy Japan’s exquisite cuisine and heartfelt hospitality at an affordable price.
In response to the profound impact of COVID-19 on its tourism industry, Japan has been actively revitalizing its attractions. One of the standout additions is Studio Sushi, a sushi experience entertainment venue that opened its doors in May 2024. Studio Sushi emerged with the mission to educate visitors on the art of sushi and Japanese culinary culture while delivering a highly entertaining and unforgettable experience. The result is a bilingual and fully immersive sushi-making class combining a rich cultural experience with modern entertainment.
The innovative experience includes a hands-on session where participants learn the art of sushi-making from preparing sushi rice to making nigiri, sushi rolls, and chirashi-zushi.
However, what sets Studio Sushi apart is its emphasis on entertainment, a component often sidelined in traditional cooking classes. Each session incorporates exciting quizzes and challenges, enriching the overall educational experience, while also encouraging guests to laugh, relax, and learn in a fun and comfortable environment.
Studio Sushi goes a step further by offering participants the chance to step behind an upscale sushi counter and become a chef themselves. Guests are challenged to create one final masterpiece sushi under the watchful eye of their resident chef Baba Masato and present their creation to the restaurant, adding an exciting layer of authenticity to the experience.
Guests leave not only with the knowledge and ability to create their own sushi at home but also with several mementos, including a chef’s hat, access to exclusive instructional videos to recreate the magic at home, as well as immediate access to all of the photos and videos taken on the day.
Through the captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and competition, Studio Sushi is changing the face of tourism in Japan. Their innovative approach provides a unique perspective on Japanese heritage, leaving guests with memories, skills, laughs, and an enriched understanding of the gastronomic art that sushi truly is.
