Looking for a meaningful cultural experience beyond sightseeing?

In Fujisato Town, the gateway to the Akita side of the Shirakami Sanchi area, you can spend a relaxing morning learning how to make traditional Japanese onigiri while connecting with local people and food culture.

Surrounded by the rich natural environment of Shirakami, this hands-on workshop offers a chance to experience everyday life in rural Japan through one of its most beloved foods.

Discover Local Life in Fujisato

Shirakami Sanchi stretches across Akita and Aomori Prefectures and is home to one of the world’s largest remaining beech forests. The core area was designated as Japan’s first UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

Located on the Akita side of Shirakami, Fujisato Town serves as a gateway to the region. Here, visitors can slow down, enjoy the local pace of life, and experience the close relationship between people, nature, and food.

Learn to Make Traditional Japanese Onigiri

This workshop is led by Akiko Muraoka, owner of the local guesthouse Damakko-ya.

Born and raised in Fujisato, Akiko is known for her homemade cooking and deep knowledge of local ingredients, including wild mountain vegetables and mushrooms gathered from the surrounding forests.

Using Akita-grown rice and locally sourced ingredients, participants will learn how to make traditional Japanese rice balls while chatting and cooking together in a friendly atmosphere.

No cooking experience is necessary, making this activity suitable for families, couples, and anyone interested in Japanese food culture.

Enjoy a Homemade Onigiri Lunch

After the workshop, enjoy a homemade lunch featuring the onigiri you helped prepare.

The meal is served in a traditional style, with onigiri wrapped in bamboo leaves and accompanied by side dishes and soup. Menu items may vary depending on the season and ingredient availability, offering a different experience throughout the year.

More than just a meal, this is an opportunity to share food and conversation with local residents and gain insight into daily life in rural Akita.

Why You’ll Love This Experience

Meet Local People

Spend time with a lifelong Fujisato resident and experience genuine Japanese hospitality.

Experience Japanese Food Culture

Learn the techniques and traditions behind one of Japan’s most iconic comfort foods.

Enjoy the Flavors of Shirakami

Taste local ingredients and discover the food culture shaped by the surrounding mountains and forests.

A Relaxed and Authentic Experience

Perfect for travelers looking to slow down, connect with local communities, and experience rural Japan beyond the usual tourist routes.

Take Home More Than Just a Recipe

Making onigiri may seem simple, but through this experience, you’ll discover the people, ingredients, and traditions that make rural Japan so special.

If you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience in the Shirakami area, this workshop offers a memorable way to connect with the local community through food.