Arrive in Ito, a city shaped by its proximity to Suruga Bay and the Pacific Ocean, where seafood has long been central to local food culture. Head to a casual sushi restaurant listed on Tabelog, bringing you directly into a working restaurant environment.

Watch as your guide demonstrates the nigiri technique in front of you, showing how to portion, press, and shape rice before placing fish on top. Then, replicate each step yourself, practising the same techniques with guidance from your guide.

As questions come up — about rice seasoning, fish selection, or regional customs — your guide explains the techniques and answers your questions throughout the 90-minute session.

By the end of the session, shape your own nigiri pieces using the techniques demonstrated by your guide. Sit down and eat what you have made, giving you a direct connection between the effort of preparation and the result on the plate.