Learn about our journey, our mission, and the passionate team that makes Sakura Culinary Academy a unique and inspiring place to learn Japanese cuisine.
Learn MoreSakura Culinary Academy was founded in 2010 by Chef Akari Tanaka and Mr. Kenji Murakami, two individuals with a shared passion for preserving and promoting the art of Japanese cuisine. Chef Tanaka, a classically trained chef with decades of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants across Japan, envisioned a culinary school that would not only teach the technical skills of Japanese cooking but also instill a deep appreciation for the culture and traditions that underpin it.
Mr. Murakami, a seasoned businessman with a lifelong love for Japanese food, brought his entrepreneurial spirit and his understanding of the global demand for authentic Japanese culinary experiences. Together, they created Sakura Culinary Academy, a place where aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts from around the world could come to learn from the best and immerse themselves in the world of Japanese gastronomy.
The academy started small, with just a handful of students and a single kitchen. But word quickly spread about the quality of the instruction and the unique learning environment that Chef Tanaka and Mr. Murakami had created. Within a few years, Sakura Culinary Academy had grown into a renowned institution, attracting students from every corner of the globe. The curriculum expanded to include a wide range of courses, from sushi-making and ramen preparation to wagashi artistry and kaiseki cuisine. The academy also established partnerships with top restaurants in Tokyo, offering students valuable internship opportunities.
Over the years, Sakura Culinary Academy has remained true to its founding principles: a commitment to excellence, a passion for Japanese cuisine, and a dedication to providing a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Today, the academy is recognized as one of the premier culinary schools in Japan, and its graduates have gone on to achieve success in restaurants, hotels, and culinary businesses around the world. The founders, Chef Tanaka and Mr. Murakami, continue to be actively involved in the academy's operations, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of Japanese culinary education.
The location in Shinjuku, Tokyo, was carefully chosen for its vibrant culinary scene and its accessibility to both local and international students. The academy's building itself was designed to reflect the harmony between traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern functionality, creating a space that is both inspiring and conducive to learning. From the meticulously equipped kitchens to the serene tea ceremony room, every detail of the academy is designed to enhance the student experience and foster a deep connection to Japanese culinary culture.
As Sakura Culinary Academy looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of preserving and promoting the art of Japanese cuisine. The academy plans to expand its course offerings, develop new partnerships with culinary institutions around the world, and continue to provide its students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the ever-evolving culinary landscape.
At Sakura Culinary Academy, our mission is twofold: to cultivate culinary excellence and to foster a deep appreciation for Japanese culinary culture. We believe that cooking is not just a technical skill but also an art form, a cultural expression, and a way to connect with others. We are committed to providing our students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration they need to excel in the culinary world and to become ambassadors of Japanese cuisine.
We strive to achieve this mission through:
We believe that by pursuing these goals, we can empower our students to become not only skilled chefs but also passionate advocates for Japanese cuisine and culture. We are committed to creating a learning environment that is both challenging and supportive, where students can thrive and reach their full potential. Our ultimate aim is to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Japanese culinary heritage for generations to come.
Furthermore, Sakura Culinary Academy is dedicated to ethical sourcing of ingredients, ensuring that we support sustainable farming practices and local producers. We believe that the quality of our food is directly linked to the quality of our ingredients, and we are committed to using the freshest, most seasonal ingredients available. This commitment extends to our teaching philosophy, as we educate our students about the importance of respecting the ingredients and the environment from which they come.
In addition to culinary skills, we also emphasize the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership. We believe that these skills are essential for success in any culinary environment, and we provide our students with opportunities to develop them through collaborative projects and team-based activities. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students can learn from each other and build lasting relationships.
Co-Founder and Head Chef Instructor
Chef Tanaka is a renowned expert in traditional Japanese cooking techniques with over 30 years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants. She specializes in Kaiseki and Sushi.
Co-Founder and Managing Director
Mr. Murakami brings his extensive business acumen and passion for Japanese cuisine to oversee the academy's operations and strategic development.
Ramen Instructor
Chef Nakamura is a rising star in the world of ramen, known for her innovative and flavorful broths. She studied ramen techniques extensively in Fukuoka.
Wagashi Instructor
Chef Kobayashi is a master of wagashi, the delicate art of Japanese sweets. Her creations are both beautiful and delicious, reflecting the changing seasons.
Izakaya Cuisine Instructor
Chef Tanaka specializes in the vibrant and flavorful world of Izakaya cuisine, teaching students to craft shareable small plates with a focus on regional specialties.
Kaiseki Instructor
Chef Yamada is dedicated to preserving and innovating within the traditions of Kaiseki cuisine. Her teaching emphasizes seasonal ingredients and refined presentation.
Sakura Culinary Academy
2 Chome-17-3 Nishiwaseda, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 169-0051, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3208-3131
Email: info@elvirotree.com