Kyoto Fushimiinari:Wagashi Making & Small Group Tea Ceremony

Discover the serene blend of culinary artistry and mindful living at the "Wagashi Making & Small Group Tea Ceremony" experience in Kyoto’s Fushimiinari. Participants craft exquisite wagashi sweets while learning the history and techniques behind this captivating tradition. Then, they’ll enjoy a tranquil tea ceremony, preparing and savoring matcha tea. With expert guidance, this 75-minute session offers a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage. It’s an enchanting experience not to be missed.

Key Points

• A 75-minute hands-on experience to craft traditional Japanese wagashi sweets and participate in an intimate tea ceremony in Kyoto.
• Participants learn the history, ingredients, and techniques of wagashi-making under expert guidance, then savor the homemade confections during the tea ceremony.
• The tea ceremony immerses participants in the intricate rituals, significance, and aesthetic sensibilities of this cultural practice, promoting mindfulness.
• The experience is suitable for adults, with accommodations available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor, and advance notice required for dietary restrictions.
• The group size is limited to 6 participants, allowing for a personalized and immersive cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

The Kyoto Fushimiinari: Wagashi Making & Small Group Tea Ceremony is a 75-minute experience that allows participants to learn the art of making traditional Japanese sweets and take part in a traditional tea ceremony.

Priced from Kč 1,338 per person, the experience is limited to just 6 participants and is led by an English-speaking instructor. Participants can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without immediate payment.

The experience includes two bowls of matcha tea, as well as instruction on wagashi-making and the tea ceremony.

Wagashi Making: A Hands-on Exploration

As part of the experience, you will have the opportunity to learn the art of making traditional Japanese sweets known as wagashi.

This hands-on activity allows visitors to:

• Craft one type of wagashi under the guidance of an expert instructor
• Gain insights into the history, ingredients, and techniques of wagashi-making
• Savor the homemade sweets as part of the tea ceremony experience

Through this interactive session, participants can enjoy the intricate world of Japanese confectionery and deepen their appreciation for the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Taking in the Tea Ceremony Tradition

Following the hands-on wagashi-making session, participants enjoy the time-honored tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony.

In a tranquil, Japanese-style room with a garden view, the instructor guides them through the intricate rituals and significance of this cultural practice.

Participants learn to properly prepare and serve matcha, appreciating the harmony of flavors and the meditative process.

The tea ceremony offers a glimpse into Japan’s refined aesthetic sensibilities and the art of mindful living.

Engaging in this authentic experience deepens participants’ understanding and respect for Japanese culture.

Learning the History and Significance

During the tea ceremony, participants gain insights into the rich history and profound significance of this revered cultural practice.

They learn about:

• The intricate symbolism woven into the ceremony, reflecting harmony, respect, and tranquility.
• The meticulous preparation and choreography that imbue each movement with meaning.
• The deeper philosophical underpinnings of the tea ceremony, which cultivate mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment.

Through this immersive experience, guests develop a deeper understanding of the cultural traditions that have shaped Japanese society for centuries.

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Savoring the Handcrafted Sweets

Participants eagerly craft their own Wagashi, the delicate Japanese confections, under the guidance of the skilled instructor. They learn the intricate techniques required to shape, color, and decorate these bite-sized treats.

The freshly made Wagashi are then savored during the traditional tea ceremony. Sipping the matcha, carefully prepared and served by the participants, the group appreciates the balance of flavors and textures.

The handcrafted sweets complement the earthy green tea, creating a harmonious sensory experience that deepens their understanding of Japanese culinary traditions.

This hands-on activity offers a delightful way to engage with the country’s cultural heritage.

Preparing and Serving Matcha

After crafting the delicate Wagashi, participants now turn their attention to the art of preparing and serving matcha.

The instructor guides them through the process, emphasizing the importance of precise movements and concentration.

Participants learn:

• How to properly whisk the matcha powder and hot water to create a frothy, vibrant green tea
• The significance of the tea bowl, tea scoop, and other utensils used in the ceremony
• Etiquette for appreciating the subtle flavors and aromas of the matcha as they sip it mindfully

The experience offers a window into the rich cultural heritage of Japanese tea tradition.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The experience isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old or wheelchair users.

However, accommodations are available for those who’ve difficulty sitting on the floor. Chairs and tables are provided for participants.

Participants should wear socks, as bare feet aren’t allowed. Plus, flash photography and video recording are prohibited during the tea ceremony.

Guests with food restrictions or allergies are advised to inform the organizers in advance, as the Japanese sweets may vary by season.

Customer Insights and Recommendations

Reviewers consistently praise the pleasant and attentive instructors, who provide good explanations of the tea ceremony and engage participants in the hands-on Wagashi-making experience.

Customers highlight several aspects that make this experience worthwhile:

• Cultural insights gained through the tea ceremony, including the history and significance of the ritual and the hanging scroll.

• The friendly atmosphere that fosters an engaging and enjoyable time.

• The opportunity to create a traditional Japanese sweet and learn how to properly eat and serve it.

Things To Know

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Flash photography and video recording are not allowed during the tea ceremony, but you can take still photos without a flash. The experience focuses on immersing participants in the cultural tradition rather than capturing it on camera.

Is It Possible to Request a Specific Type of Wagashi?

Yes, you can request a specific type of wagashi in advance. The Japanese sweets may vary by season, so informing the organizers about any food restrictions or allergies is recommended to ensure you receive the wagashi of your preference.

How Long Does the Wagashi Making Class Last?

The wagashi making class lasts 75 minutes. The experience includes instruction on how to make Japanese sweets, as well as participating in a traditional tea ceremony.

Is It Necessary to Be Familiar With Japanese Culture?

No prior knowledge of Japanese culture is required. The experience provides an introduction to making traditional wagashi sweets and participating in a tea ceremony, guiding participants through the cultural significance and practices.

Can the Experience Be Booked for a Larger Group?

The experience can accommodate larger groups, but it’s limited to 6 participants. Those looking to book for a bigger party may need to inquire about alternative options or consider splitting into smaller groups.

Sum Up

The "Wagashi Making & Small Group Tea Ceremony" experience at Kyoto Fushimiinari offers a unique blend of culinary artistry and culture. Participants can craft exquisite wagashi, learn about the history and techniques, and enjoy a serene tea ceremony, all with expert guidance. This 75-minute session provides an intimate and memorable insight into Japan’s rich heritage, making it a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic and enriching experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: