The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre (NNMCC) is proud to announce Taste of Japan, an interactive workshop series celebrating Japanese food culture. Held in partnership with the Bite of Burnaby festival throughout March 2026, the series invites the public to explore Japanese food through a lineup of hands-on workshops.

The series kicks off on Sunday, March 1st, with a Japanese Tea Ceremony led by Junichi Ishii. Held alongside a display of Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day) dolls in the Centre’s tea room, the ceremony offers a peaceful, sensory introduction to the world of matcha and the values of harmony and respect.

Taste of Japan offers a welcoming space for food lovers of all backgrounds. Participants will learn from local artisans, mastering time-honoured techniques and using seasonal ingredients.

The March 2026 Lineup includes:

• Japanese Tea Ceremony (March 1): A ritual of harmony, respect, and peace.

• Sake & Cheese Pairing (March 8): Discover Sake: A Guided Tasting & Pairing Experience.

• Miso Making (March 14): Fermentation with Van Koji Foods.

• Nerikiri Wagashi (March 14): The art of sculpting edible cherry blossoms with Megu Takahashi. (sold out)

• Family Onigiri (March 15): A family-friendly session on the essentials of Japanese rice balls with Samurice.

• Gourmet Chocolate (March 20): Spring break truffle making and bean-to-bar experiences with Coconama.

• Ochazuke & Tea (March 21): Exploring the "whole leaf" philosophy in savoury rice bowls.

• Artsushi (March 21): Creating decorative cherry blossom themed sushi rolls.

• Sakura Mochi (March 22): Crafting traditional pink spring treats with Kintoki Sweets.

• Handmade Soba (March 29): The rewarding process of kneading and hand-cutting buckwheat noodles with Kayo Bennett.

Visit the Museum's website to learn more and register.