Niigata: Traditional Japanese Doma Cooking Class with Meal｜Japan

Step into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition with a cooking class in a beautifully restored farmhouse with a traditional earthen floor kitchen—doma. Rediscover the wisdom, flavors, and rhythms of rural Japanese life.

Begin with a warm welcome and introduction to the experience. Under the gentle supervision of a local lady who has been brought up in the food culture of the region, help prepare a meal of traditional rural dishes that are household favorites in Yukiguni.

Prepare a fire and cook the rice over the flames in the traditional kamado pot which produces wonderfully moist rice. Your hostess will share her knowledge with you as you work together, and you will learn about different aspects of the food in the region where having enough food to last through half a year of winter was vital.

Cook with freshly harvested vegetables, rice, and mountain herbs sourced directly from the rich soil and clean waters of the Uonuma region—famous for its koshihikari rice and pristine nature. Learn traditional techniques from local experts and ryugon staff who are deeply rooted in the community. Many of the recipes are passed down through generations and reflect both seasonal rhythms and time-honored wisdom.

After cooking, enjoy a shared meal with your hosts and fellow participants. This is not just about cooking—it’s about storytelling, sharing, and slow living in harmony with nature and seasons.

Please note that this package also includes access to the ryugon lounge (available from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM).