Kyoto Near Fushimiinari Wagashi Making&Small Group Tea Ceremony

Nestled near the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, this cultural experience offers a unique glimpse into the art of traditional Japanese wagashi-making and tea ceremony. Participants can expect to create their own delectable sweets and savor the refined flavors of matcha tea in an intimate setting, guided by a friendly instructor. Whether you’re a foodie, culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable activity, this 2.5-hour journey promises to transport you to the heart of Kyoto’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• An immersive 2.5-hour experience in the traditional Japanese arts of wagashi making and tea ceremony, located a 15-minute walk from Fushimiinari Shrine.
• Hands-on workshop with a maximum of 8 participants, featuring the sampling of traditional Japanese confectionaries and 2 bowls of matcha tea.
• Convenient location near public transportation, with hotel pick-up and drop-off service provided.
• Not wheelchair accessible, with socks required during the activity; children 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, with a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation rate.

Overview and Experience

This Kyoto experience allows visitors to enjoy the traditional Japanese arts of wagashi making and the tea ceremony.

Offered in a small group setting, you will create their own Japanese confections and enjoy two bowls of matcha tea. The 2.5-hour activity takes place in a 15-minute walk from the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers.

Priced at $54.03 per person, the experience includes all fees, taxes, gratuity, and transportation.

Wheelchair access isn’t available, and participants must wear socks during the activity.

Menu and Inclusions

The experience includes a sampling of traditional Japanese confectionaries, with participants having the opportunity to make their own sweets.

The menu features:

• 2 bowls of matcha tea
• An assortment of traditional Japanese sweets
• Coffee or tea
• All fees and taxes, as well as gratuity, are included.

The experience also provides hotel pick-up and drop-off service.

Travelers can expect to indulge in a dessert showcasing matcha and other classic Japanese confections in a peaceful, authentic setting.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this experience is a 15-minute walk from the Fushimiinari shrine.

After the activity, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, and participants must wear socks – bare feet aren’t allowed.

Children aged 8 to 12 must be accompanied by at least one adult, while children aged 7 or under can’t participate.

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers who don’t consume caffeine.

Confirmation is received at booking, and the location is near public transportation.

Participation Guidelines

Although children aged 8 to 12 can participate, they must be accompanied by at least one adult.

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers who don’t consume caffeine, as it includes matcha tea. Participants must wear socks, as bare feet aren’t allowed. The experience is confirmed upon booking and is conveniently located near public transportation.

• Participants must be aged 8 or above.
• Children 7 and under can’t participate.
• Wear socks; bare feet not permitted.
• Not recommended for non-caffeine consumers.

Positive Feedback From Travelers

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about this experience.

Nancy_W raved it was "delightful — instructive, informative, authentic, restorative."

MarieJosee_F found it an "amazing traditional experience."

The reviews highlight the fun and educational dessert-making, lovely setting, friendly instructor, and peaceful atmosphere.

With a 5.0 rating from 12 reviews and 100% recommendation, this activity seems to offer an authentic and immersive Japanese cultural experience.

Participants appreciate the opportunity to learn about and create traditional wagashi sweets while enjoying matcha tea in an intimate small-group setting near the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine.

The Wagashi Making Process

Participants begin the wagashi-making process by learning from the friendly instructor about the traditional art of creating these delicate Japanese confections.

The instructor guides them through the steps:

• Measuring and mixing the ingredients to form the mochi dough
• Shaping the dough into small, intricate designs using specialized tools
• Delicately coloring the sweets with natural food dyes
• Carefully arranging the finished wagashi on traditional serving trays

The participants then have the opportunity to make their own unique creations, discovering the patience and artistry required to craft these beautiful traditional Japanese desserts.

The Small Group Tea Ceremony

After the wagashi-making experience, the group moves on to the serene small group tea ceremony. During this tranquil ritual, participants learn traditional Japanese tea culture as they savor matcha prepared by a skilled instructor. The ceremony takes place in an intimate setting, allowing for personal attention and a chance to appreciate the art of tea drinking.

Highlights of the Tea Ceremony
2 bowls of matcha served	Traditional Japanese confectionaries	Peaceful, immersive experience

The tea ceremony provides a perfect complement to the hands-on wagashi making, offering a well-rounded cultural experience in Kyoto.

Practical Tips for Attending the Activity

To attend this cultural experience, visitors should plan to arrive at the meeting point near Fushimiinari shrine about 15 minutes before the 9:45 am start time.

Participants must wear socks, as bare feet aren’t allowed. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Children aged 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 7 can’t participate. Plus, the activity isn’t recommended for those who don’t consume caffeine, as it includes matcha tea.

With these practical tips in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the authentic Japanese tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Experience?

The dress code for this experience is not explicitly stated, but participants are required to wear socks, as bare feet are not allowed. Comfortable clothing is recommended to fully enjoy the activities.

Are Food Allergies or Dietary Requirements Accommodated?

The experience can accommodate food allergies and dietary requirements, but participants should notify the instructor in advance. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all.

Can I Purchase Additional Sweets or Tea During the Experience?

Participants can’t purchase additional sweets or tea during the experience. The fixed menu includes 2 bowls of matcha, traditional Japanese confectionaries, and coffee/tea. No outside food or drinks are allowed.

What Language(S) Is the Experience Conducted In?

The experience is primarily conducted in English. However, the instructor may provide some instructions or commentary in Japanese as well, to give participants an authentic cultural experience.

Are Any Photos or Videos Allowed During the Activities?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos or videos during the activities, though the instructor may request that they avoid disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. It’s best to check with the organizers for any specific guidelines.

The Sum Up

This engaging experience offers a unique cultural insight into traditional Japanese wagashi making and tea ceremony near Fushimi Inari Shrine. Priced at $54.03 per person, it’s a memorable activity for those 8 and older, led by a friendly instructor. Participants will create delicious sweets and enjoy two bowls of matcha tea, along with sampling authentic confectionaries, all within a serene small-group setting.