Fun Food Sample Making Spots in Tokyo & Yokohama
Create Ultra-Realistic Fake Food
What is Food Sample Art?
Step into a world where sushi never spoils and parfaits never melt. In Japan, plastic food replicas (食品サンプル shokuhin sanpuru) are an art form. Originally used by restaurants to showcase their menu in windows, they have now become one of Japan’s most quirky and beloved cultural experiences.
Whether you’re into crafting or just looking for a fun rainy-day activity, these workshops let you create your own fake tempura, ramen, or desserts to take home as souvenirs.
1. Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya (Kappabashi, Tokyo)
Why visit: The original birthplace of food replicas in Japan.
Experience: Make sizzling tempura or lettuce that looks freshly chopped.
Duration: 60–90 minutes
Fee: ¥2,500–¥3,500
Language support: Japanese (English instruction sheet available)
Access: 10-min walk from Asakusa Station
Website: https://www.ganso-sample.com
💡 Tip: The shop also sells hundreds of fun food keychains and magnets – great for souvenirs!
2. Yamato Sample Factory (Yokohama)
Why visit: Great for families and kids – colorful, cute dessert samples.
Experience: Make ice cream cones, fruit parfaits, or pancakes
Duration: 45–60 minutes
Fee: ¥2,000–¥2,800
Language support: Basic English, friendly staff
Access: 8-min walk from Bashamichi Station (Minatomirai Line)
Website: http://www.nsgw.co.jp/yamato
📸 This spot is very Instagrammable – pastel-colored workshops and vibrant creations.
3. Food Sample Making Café (Asakusa, Tokyo)
Why visit: Unique experience combining plastic food crafting and real food dining – perfect for first-time visitors.
Experience: Create ultra-realistic omurice, spaghetti, crepes, or jelly parfaits, and compare with the real dishes served in the café.
Duration: 60 minutes (90 minutes with meal)
Fee: ¥4,600 (experience only), ¥5,600 (with food set)
Language support: English-speaking staff available
Access: 5-min walk from Asakusa Station (Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Line)
Booking: Required (online reservation recommended)
Website: https://foodsamplecafe.com/en
🍳 One-of-a-kind workshop where you make fake food… and then eat the real version right after!
4. Maido Sample (Ikebukuro, Tokyo)
Why visit: Newer studio with a contemporary feel — near major shopping areas.
Experience: Create tempura shrimp, gyoza, or fruit tarts
Duration: 60 minutes
Fee: ¥2,300〜
Bonus: Combine this with a visit to Sunshine City or Pokémon Center nearby
Website: https://samplefan.com
Who Should Try It?
- Couples: Make matching fake parfaits for fun!
Families: Great for kids 6+, hands-on and safe
Solo Travelers: Short, casual, and unique souvenir to take home
Creative Travelers: Into arts & crafts or Japanese culture
Practical Tips for Visitors
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Language | Some workshops offer English instructions or staff assistance |
| Booking | Highly recommended on weekends or holidays |
| What to Wear | Casual clothing; aprons are usually provided |
| Souvenir Quality | Yes! Your creation is yours to take home, and it lasts forever |
| Weather-Proof | Perfect rainy-day activity (all indoors) |
Summary
| Location | Main Experience | Ideal For | Booking Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asakusa | Tempura & Lettuce | First-timers | Yes |
| Yokohama | Parfaits & Ice Cream | Families | Yes |
| Akihabara | Ramen & Curry | Solo/Couples | Yes |
| Ikebukuro | Gyoza & Fruit Tart | Shoppers | Optional |
