Fun Classes for Expats Living in Tokyo

As an expat or digital nomad living in Tokyo, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is an enriching experience. One of the best ways to do this is by taking classes that not only help you learn new skills but also allow you to meet like-minded individuals. Tokyo offers a plethora of classes in English or with English support, ranging from traditional Japanese arts to modern culinary techniques. Whether you're looking to master the art of sushi making, delve into the subtleties of Japanese tea ceremonies, or unleash your creativity through painting, there's something for everyone. Here's a curated list of classes that are perfect for English-speaking adults looking to expand their horizons while living in Tokyo.

Tokyo Sushi Academy

Type of Class(es): Sushi Making
Location: Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.sushischool.jp

At Tokyo Sushi Academy, you can learn the delicate art of sushi making from experienced chefs. They offer short-term classes for beginners, which are conducted in English. It's a fantastic way to understand the intricacies of sushi, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine.

ABC Cooking Studio

Type of Class(es): Various Cooking Classes
Location: Multiple locations across Tokyo
Website: www.abc-cooking.co.jp/english/

ABC Cooking Studio provides a range of cooking classes, from Japanese dishes to sweets and bread-making. Classes are available in English, making it easy for expats to join and enjoy the experience of cooking new dishes.

Arigato Japan Food Tours

Type of Class(es): Japanese Cooking Classes and Food Tours
Location: Various locations in Tokyo
Website: www.arigatojapan.co.jp

Arigato Japan Food Tours not only takes you on a culinary journey through Tokyo's food scene but also offers cooking classes where you can learn to make traditional Japanese dishes. Their English-speaking guides and instructors make the experience both educational and enjoyable.

YUCa's Japanese Cooking

Type of Class(es): Japanese Home Cooking
Location: Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.yjc.tokyo

YUCa's Japanese Cooking offers a personalized cooking experience in English. Learn how to prepare authentic Japanese home meals in a small, intimate class setting, perfect for making friends and learning the nuances of Japanese cuisine.

Divine Wine Society

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting
Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.divinewinesociety.jp

For wine enthusiasts, the Divine Wine Society offers wine tasting classes where you can learn about different wines from around the world. The classes are conducted in English and are a great way to socialize with other wine lovers.

International Soroban Academy

Type of Class(es): Japanese Abacus (Soroban)
Location: Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.sorobanexam.org

The International Soroban Academy offers classes in English on how to use the traditional Japanese abacus. It's a unique skill that also serves as a mental exercise and a way to appreciate an aspect of Japanese culture.

Shibuya Language School

Type of Class(es): Japanese Language Courses
Location: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.sls-tokyo.com

Shibuya Language School provides Japanese language courses for all levels. Their classes are designed to help you quickly improve your language skills, with English-speaking staff available to assist you.

Artelino - Art Auctions

Type of Class(es): Japanese Art and Calligraphy
Location: Online
Website: www.artelino.com

Artelino offers online auctions and information on Japanese art, but they also provide resources for those interested in learning about Japanese calligraphy and art history. It's a great way to delve into the art scene from the comfort of your home.

Tea Ceremony Koto

Type of Class(es): Japanese Tea Ceremony
Location: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.teaceremonykoto.com

Tea Ceremony Koto offers you the chance to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. They provide English instruction, making it accessible for those who are still learning Japanese.

Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony

Type of Class(es): Japanese Tea Ceremony
Location: Various locations in Tokyo
Website: www.tokyo-grand-tea-ceremony.jp/en/

The Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony is an annual event that offers workshops and demonstrations in English. It's a great opportunity to learn about this important cultural practice in a larger, event-style setting.

Factory & Labo Kanno Coffee

Type of Class(es): Coffee Brewing and Tasting
Location: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.kannocoffee.com

For coffee aficionados, Factory & Labo Kanno Coffee provides classes on coffee brewing and tasting. Learn the craft of coffee making and the subtleties of flavor in each cup, all in English.

Tokyo Photography School

Type of Class(es): Photography
Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.tokyophotographyschool.com

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, Tokyo Photography School offers courses that cover various aspects of photography. Classes are taught in English, making it easy for expats to join and improve their photography skills.

Blue & White

Type of Class(es): Japanese Textile Arts
Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo
Website: www.blueandwhitejapan.com

Blue & White offers workshops on Japanese textile arts, such as indigo dyeing and sashiko stitching. These classes are a tactile way to engage with Japanese culture and create your own textile art.