Fun for all ages! A food model making experience with over 90 years of tradition.

Have you ever seen the food replicas unique to Japan?  
Their charm lies in their incredible realism. 
Even if you know they are replicas, they look so realistic that you might still be tempted to eat them!  
Here we will introduce an experience where you can try making them yourself. 

Recommended by MIMARU’s Staff 

“The process was easy to understand because I was able to watch a video explaining it before trying it myself. 
Although it seemed easy at first, it was surprisingly difficult once I actually tried it. 

However, I felt that the difference between my expectations and reality was part of the charm of the experience. 
While preparing the tempura, the staff would say things like, "We're ready to fry it now" and "It's become nice and crispy," which helped me really feel like I was frying the tempura myself. 

The attention to detail and production of the experience was impressive, and I had a lot of fun. 
They provided helpful tips while also giving a lot of encouragement, which was very reassuring. 
It’s a quick and easy 30-minute experience full of surprises, so I highly recommend it!” 

What can you make? 

The menu items always available to experience making are tempura and lettuce. 
For the tempura, you can choose two items from a variety of options such as shrimp, eggplant, and sweet potato. 
I chose shrimp and eggplant. 
If you go as a group, you can create a mixed tempura platter together! 

How do you make it? 



Food models are made by pouring colored, high-temperature wax into hot water where it solidifies. 
Yellow wax is used for the tempura batter, while green and white wax is used for lettuce. 

Different processes are used to achieve a crispy texture for the tempura, and to craft fluffy lettuce leaves. 
These original items are created using ideas and techniques of modern food model artisans. 
I was surprised to learn that such realistic works of art can be made with wax! 

Here is the finished product 

The finished food models looked appetizing, just like real tempura and lettuce. 
 
The staff will then pack the finished models for you to take home.
Interestingly, the paper used for the wrapping is even the same type used for real tempura. 

Not only can you experience making the food models, but they also sell items such as bookmarks and magnets which make for great souvenirs. 
The unique products for sale are handmade by artisans one at a time. There are also days when English-speaking staff are available, so definitely give it a try!