Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience in Kamakura

The Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience in Kamakura offers a unique culture. Participants don traditional Japanese kimonos and enjoy matcha tea and sweets within the picturesque Murakami Residence. Guided by bilingual hosts, this two-hour activity accommodates small groups of up to six travelers, providing an intimate encounter with Japanese hospitality. While the venue lacks wheelchair accessibility and air conditioning, the blend of time-honored customs and modern conveniences intrigues those seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• A traditional Japanese kimono rental experience in Kamakura, Japan, lasting 2 hours and limited to small groups of up to 6 travelers.
• Includes matcha tea, Japanese sweets, professional kimono dressing assistance, and a bilingual guide providing English and Japanese commentary.
• Held at the Murakami Residence, with the tea ceremony taking place on-site on select weekdays between 10 AM and 12 PM.
• Participants should be aware of the lack of wheelchair accessibility and air conditioning, as well as the non-refundable cancellation policy.
• Despite a single negative review citing accessibility and comfort issues, the experience offers a unique opportunity for culture and traditional kimono wearing.

Experience Overview

The Kimono Tea Ceremony experience offers participants the chance to don traditional Japanese attire and partake in the age-old ritual of tea preparation and enjoyment.

Located in Kamakura, Japan, the 2-hour activity caters to small groups of up to 6 travelers at a per-person price starting from $81.04.

Included in the experience are the kimono rental, matcha tea, Japanese sweets, and the services of a professional kimono dresser and bilingual guide.

Additional matcha can be purchased for 1000¥.

The experience takes place Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings, with the start time requiring advance confirmation.

Inclusions

The Kimono Tea Ceremony experience includes several key elements.

Travelers can enjoy the rental of a traditional Japanese kimono, sip matcha tea, and savor Japanese sweets. A professional kimono dresser assists with the proper wearing of the kimono.

A bilingual guide provides English and Japanese commentary throughout the experience. For an additional 1000¥, guests can receive extra matcha to take home.

The experience takes place in the Murakami Residence in Kamakura, with the meeting and end point being the same location.

Meeting Details

Travelers meet at the Murakami Residence in Nishimikado, Kamakura, Japan (248-0004).

Look for the guide holding a sign that says "Former Murakami Residence."

The tea ceremony takes place at this location and returns to the same meeting point after the experience.

The schedule includes Monday and Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, as well as Thursday and Friday during the same hours.

Be sure to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance, as the schedule may be subject to change.

Schedule

The tea ceremony experience operates from September 11, 2024 to August 25, 2025.

Guests can attend the ceremony on the following days and times:

• Monday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Visitors are advised to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance, as schedules may be subject to change.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those sensitive to heat or cold, as the venue doesn’t have air conditioning.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps.

Due to the lack of air conditioning, the experience isn’t recommended for those sensitive to heat or cold. Cancellations don’t receive refunds, as this is a non-refundable activity.

Despite the 1-star review, the experience offers an immersive cultural encounter with the opportunity to don a traditional kimono and enjoy a matcha tea ceremony in historic Kamakura.

Participant Reviews

What do the reviews say about this kimono tea ceremony experience?

The sole review provided a one-star rating, suggesting a poor participant experience.

The review highlights a few key issues:

1. The event wasn’t wheelchair accessible.
2. There was no air conditioning, making it uncomfortable for those sensitive to heat or cold.
3. The policy of non-refundability for cancellations was viewed unfavorably.

Getting to the Murakami Residence

How do travelers get to the Murakami Residence in Kamakura, Japan for the Kimono Tea Ceremony experience?

The meeting point is the Murakami Residence, located at Nishimikado, Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan (248-0004). The guide will be holding a sign that says "Former Murakami Residence" to help travelers identify the location.

The experience starts and ends at this meeting point. Travelers can reach the Murakami Residence via public transportation, as it’s located near public transit options.

It’s important to confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance, as the schedule may vary.

What to Expect During the Kimono Tea Ceremony

After arriving at the Murakami Residence, travelers are greeted by a professional kimono dresser who assists them in putting on the traditional Japanese kimono.

The tea ceremony follows, where participants learn the proper way to prepare and drink matcha tea.

The experience includes:

1. Observing the intricate steps of the tea ceremony
2. Savoring the earthy, frothy matcha and delicate Japanese sweets
3. Appreciating the beauty of the historic residence and its serene garden setting

The bilingual guide provides insights into the cultural significance of this timeless tradition throughout the 2-hour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wear My Own Clothes for the Tea Ceremony?

No, participants can’t wear their own clothes. The experience includes a rental of traditional kimono, which are essential for the tea ceremony. Wearing the proper attire is an integral part of the cultural experience.

Are There Separate Changing Rooms for Men and Women?

The experience provider doesn’t mention separate changing rooms for men and women. Participants likely change into the provided kimono in the same shared space. It’s best to check with the local provider for specific details on the changing arrangements.

Do I Need to Know Japanese to Participate?

While a bilingual guide (English & Japanese) is provided, you don’t need to know Japanese to participate. The experience includes rental of a kimono, matcha tea, and Japanese sweets, making it accessible for non-Japanese speakers.

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tea ceremony. The experience includes a bilingual guide who can provide guidance on proper etiquette and tips for capturing the ceremony on camera.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

There’s no age limit stated, but the experience isn’t recommended for infants as they must sit on laps. It’s suitable for all other ages, as long as participants can actively participate in the tea ceremony.

The Sum Up

The Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience in Kamakura offers a unique culture. Participants can wear traditional Japanese kimonos and enjoy matcha tea and sweets in the picturesque Murakami Residence. The two-hour activity accommodates small groups, providing an intimate experience with bilingual guides and professional kimono dressers. However, the venue lacks wheelchair accessibility and air conditioning, so visitors should take this into account when planning their visit.