Kyoto: Casual Tea Ceremony in 100-Year-Old Machiya House

Kyoto is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and one way to immerse in this captivating tradition is through a casual tea ceremony held in a 100-year-old machiya house. This intimate 45-minute session allows visitors to learn the art of making matcha tea from a trained tea master while savoring traditional Japanese sweets. With limited group size and wheelchair accessibility, this experience offers a serene and accessible way to embrace the Zen spirit of Kyoto.

Key Points

• Immersive 45-minute tea ceremony experience in a traditional 100-year-old Kyoto townhouse (machiya).
• Learn to make matcha tea and enjoy authentic Japanese sweets in a small group of up to 9 participants.
• Instruction available in both English and Japanese for a diverse linguistic experience.
• Wheelchair accessible and accommodating for families with small children.
• Avoid wearing strong fragrances to fully appreciate the aroma of the matcha tea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview

What does the casual tea ceremony in Kyoto entail?

It’s a 45-minute experience in a 100-year-old traditional townhouse. You’ll learn to make matcha tea and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets.

The experience is limited to 9 participants and includes instruction in English and Japanese. The setting is wheelchair accessible, so families with small kids are welcome.

To fully appreciate the matcha aroma, you’re advised to avoid strong perfumes and colognes.

The host, Miki, is trained in the Omotesenke tea ceremony school and will share cultural insights about the Zen spirit and etiquette of the ritual.

Activity Duration and Pricing

The casual tea ceremony experience in Kyoto lasts 45 minutes and is priced from $36.07 per person. The group size is limited to 9 participants, and instruction is available in both English and Japanese. The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all.

Activity Details
Duration	45 minutes
Price	From $36.07/per
Group Size	Limited to 9
Language	English, Japanese
Accessibility	Wheelchair

The ceremony offers a chance to learn the art of making matcha tea and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets, all while exploring the Zen spirit of this timeless tradition.

Group Size and Language Options

Although the tea ceremony experience is limited to 9 participants, it caters to guests of diverse linguistic backgrounds.

The instruction is available in both English and Japanese, ensuring everyone can fully engage with and understand the cultural nuances of the ceremony.

The intimate group size allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable host, Miki, who’s trained in the Omotesenke school of tea.

Whether you’re a Japanese speaker or an international traveler, this tea ceremony offers an immersive and educational experience in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Machiya house.

Booking and Cancellation Details

Guests can reserve their spot for the casual tea ceremony in Kyoto without any initial payment, as the process involves reserving now and paying later.

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for full refunds. Visitors can check availability of starting times to accommodate their schedules.

This flexibility ensures a hassle-free booking process, enabling guests to secure their participation and make necessary arrangements ahead of time.

With no upfront costs and generous cancellation policies, the tea ceremony provides a convenient and risk-free way to enjoy this cultural experience in Kyoto.

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Highlights of the Tea Ceremony

Visitors can look forward to an immersive cultural experience as they learn to make matcha tea at home during the casual tea ceremony in Kyoto.

Guests will enjoy traditional Japanese sweets while exploring the Zen spirit of the ceremony. Families with small children are welcome, but visitors should avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes to fully appreciate the aroma of matcha.

The hands-on experience provides an opportunity to gain insights into tea ceremony etiquette and rituals, led by a knowledgeable host trained in the popular Omotesenke school.

Afterward, guests can browse crafts made by Japanese artisans for a memorable souvenir.

Meet the Host and Explore the Setting

As a trained practitioner in the Omotesenke tea ceremony school, Miki offers guests an intimate and educational experience in a traditional Machiya townhouse in Kyoto.

Relax on the tatami floors as Miki guides you through the rituals and etiquette of the Japanese tea ceremony. Learn about the Zen philosophy behind the experience and appreciate the cultural insights Miki provides.

Browse the selection of crafts made by local Japanese artisans available for purchase as a unique souvenir.

This casual tea ceremony in a century-old setting promises an authentic culture for all participants.

Insights Into Tea Ceremony Etiquette and Rituals

One of the key insights guests gain during the casual tea ceremony is an understanding of the etiquette and rituals that guide this centuries-old tradition.

Through the guidance of the trained host, Miki, participants learn:

• The proper way to handle the tea bowl and whisk, demonstrating respect for the tools used in the ceremony.
• The significance of each movement and gesture, from the careful cleaning of the utensils to the deliberate pouring of the matcha.
• How the tea ceremony embodies the Zen principles of mindfulness and harmony, fostering a sense of tranquility.

This educational component enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to truly appreciate the cultural depth of the tea ritual.

Souvenir Opportunities and Customer Feedback

The casual tea ceremony also provides guests with opportunities to purchase traditional Japanese crafts made by local artisans.

These souvenirs allow visitors to bring a piece of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage back home.

Based on over 300 reviews, guests have consistently praised the overall experience, with a 4.8/5 rating.

They highlight the host’s expertise, the educational aspects of the ceremony, and the intimate group setting.

As one reviewer noted, "Miki was a wonderful host, and I learned a lot about making matcha and the ceremony’s significance."

Guests leave with newfound appreciation for the Zen spirit of the tea ceremony.

Things To Know

Is Transportation Provided to the Tea Ceremony Venue?

The experience details do not indicate that transportation is provided to the tea ceremony venue. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the 100-year-old Machiya house in Kyoto where the tea ceremony takes place.

Can I Bring My Own Matcha Tea Set to Use?

No, guests are not allowed to bring their own matcha tea sets to use during the ceremony. The experience is designed to provide participants with all the necessary tools and guidance to learn how to properly prepare and enjoy matcha tea.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography and videography are generally allowed, but participants are asked to avoid using flash and to be mindful of not disrupting the serene atmosphere of the tea ceremony. Check with the host for any specific guidelines.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tea Ceremony Experience?

There’s no strict dress code, but wearing comfortable and modest attire is recommended. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing to respect the traditional setting. The focus is on the tea ceremony experience, not fashion.

Can I Extend the Tea Ceremony Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, you can extend the 45-minute tea ceremony duration for an additional fee. Speak with the host to inquire about extending the experience and learn the pricing for the extended session.

Sum Up

This casual tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto machiya offers a chance to take in the serene Zen spirit of traditional Japanese tea culture. Led by a skilled tea master, the intimate 45-minute session allows guests to learn the art of matcha preparation and enjoy the aroma of the tea alongside delicate sweets. It’s an accessible and memorable experience for both first-time visitors and those seeking to deepen their appreciation of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: