Yakitori Isao

Yakitori Isao Experience in Kobe
Grill Your Own Yakitori!

Would you like to experience
making your
own yakitori?

The owner of Yakitori Isao grilling skewers over charcoal at his restaurant

At our authentic charcoal-grilled yakitori restaurant, you can enjoy a special experience where you prepare, grill, and eat delicious yakitori. This plan is designed for international visitors, offering a hands-on approach to the traditionally skilled processes of skewering and grilling. Our expert staff will carefully guide you through the process, making it accessible to everyone. Experience the depth of delicious Japan—you may find yourself loving Japan even more!

Savor Kobe Beef Too!

Since we're based in Kobe, our menu also includes Kobe beef skewers. Enjoy one of Japan’s most famous and highly regarded beef varieties as part of your experience.

Kobe beef

What is "Yakitori"?

Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish consisting of grilled skewered chicken (yaki = grilled, tori = chicken). It includes various cuts like thigh meat, minced chicken balls (tsukune), chicken wings, skin, and liver. Each restaurant has its own special blend of sauces or offers it seasoned with salt. Some skewers also feature beef, pork, or vegetables. Paired with beer or sake, yakitori is a casual and beloved izakaya dish. Japan’s unique izakaya culture—where people enjoy a variety of delicious and affordable dishes with drinks—is gaining popularity worldwide.

yakitori

ABOUT US

I’m Isao, the owner of “Yakitori Isao”. After training at various yakitori restaurants in Kobe, I opened my own place in 2009. Using carefully selected ingredients and charcoal-grilling techniques, we serve yakitori and skewer dishes that are loved by locals. Our restaurant, tucked away in a hidden alley in central Kobe, offers a cozy atmosphere with jazz music playing in the background. Every night, food lovers gather here for delicious food and relaxation. I personally select rare and premium sake to pair with our dishes. Be sure to try them along with our exquisite yakitori!

▲This video showcases our yakitori grilling experience.

Yakitori Experience Program

  • 1

    Preparation

    Before starting, you will put on a samue (traditional Japanese work attire), the same as our chef wears. This outfit is comfortable, practical, and enhances the cultural experience. Samue rental is included.

  • 2

    Cutting

    You will cut chicken into ideal sizes for grilling. Though it may look easy, proper cutting takes skill. The way you slice the meat affects how it cooks and how juicy it stays. Don’t worry—our staff will guide you step by step.

  • 3

    Skewering

    You will skewer pre-cut chicken and vegetables. While this may seem simple, it actually requires skill. The way skewering is done significantly impacts the final appearance and texture of the grilled meat. Don’t worry—our staff will guide you every step of the way.

  • 4

    Grilling

    Grill your skewers over charcoal. While some restaurants use gas grills, we stick to the traditional method. Charcoal grilling results in crispy skin, juicy meat, and a delicious smoky aroma.

  • 5

    Tasting

    Finally, it’s time to enjoy your freshly grilled yakitori! Food always tastes better when you make it yourself. We also offer a selection of perfectly paired drinks—please note that drinks are charged separately.

Yakitori Experience Information

• Activities: Yakitori-making & tasting
• Group Size: 2–4 participants
• Price: 22,000 JPY per person (drinks not included)
※Duration varies depending on group size.

Access

5-minute walk from Sannomiya Station
(JR, Hankyu, Hanshin lines)

Address

Yakitori Isao
1F, 2-9-9 Kitanagasadori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan

Reservation Form

Before applying, please read the following and check the “I agree” box.

Important Notes

  • ・If you do not show up or arrive more than 1 hour late, your reservation will be considered canceled and no refund will be issued.
  • ・Cancellations made up to 2 days in advance will be fully refunded, but please note that the process may take 5 to 15 days.
  • ・No refunds will be issued for cancellations made on the day before or the day of your reservation.
  • ・We are not responsible for any burns, injuries, or accidents.
  • ・Participants must be 13 years of age or older.
  • ・Changes in Number of Participants
    If you wish to change the number of participants, please cancel the entire reservation and rebook with the correct number at least 2 days in advance. Changes on the day before or on the day of the reservation are not allowed and will not be refunded.
  • ・Our ingredients may contain common allergens such as chicken, beef, eggs, wheat, soy, and alcoholic beverages.
  • ・Guests who are feeling unwell or are heavily intoxicated cannot participate in the experience.