Osaka: Tea Ceremony Experience

Osaka’s vibrant Dotonbori district is home to a serene tea ceremony experience that transports visitors back in time. Led by an expert instructor with over a decade of experience, this 45-minute session offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and etiquette of this timeless ritual. Participants will savor premium matcha and seasonal Japanese sweets, seeing the intricate details that make this experience truly captivating. With a stellar reputation and overwhelming positive reviews, this enriching activity promises to leave a lasting impression on all who partake.

This experience made our article of The Top 13 Osaka Tours & Experiences.

Key Points

• Engage in a 45-minute traditional tea ceremony experience hosted by an experienced tea instructor in the Dotonbori district of Osaka.
• Savor matcha tea from the renowned Yamamasa Koyamaen, accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets, while learning about the history and etiquette of the ceremony.
• Enjoy a caffeine-free matcha milk option for children over 5, making the experience suitable for all ages.
• Benefit from a full refund if cancellations are made up to 24 hours in advance, and book in advance due to limited availability.
• Expect an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from previous participants, who praise the guide’s knowledge and the exceptional value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This activity offers a traditional tea ceremony experience in the Dotonbori district of Osaka.

It lasts 45 minutes and costs from $25.57 per person. Availability is limited, so it’s advisable to book in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and get a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours beforehand.

The tea ceremony is suitable for all ages, with caffeine-free matcha milk provided for children over 5.

Participants will learn from an experienced tea instructor and enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets during the authentic cultural experience.

Experience Highlights

What makes this tea ceremony experience in Osaka truly memorable?

You’ll learn from an experienced tea instructor with over 10 years of expertise.

Taste matcha sourced from the renowned Yamamasa Koyamaen, and enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets during the ceremony.

It’s suitable for all ages – even children over 5 can participate with caffeine-free matcha milk.

Listen as the tea master explains the history, culture, and etiquette of the tea ceremony, and take part in the Otemae method of matcha preparation.

You’ll also have the opportunity to capture photos and videos of this authentic experience.

Instruction and Cultural Insights

As part of the tea ceremony experience, the tea master will explain the history, culture, and etiquette of this traditional practice. Participants will learn about the Otemae method of matcha preparation, where they’ll have the opportunity to actively engage in the ritual.

History	Culture	Etiquette
Origins in 12th century Japan	Respect for nature and seasons	Proper posture and movements
Influence of Zen Buddhism	Appreciation of simplicity and beauty	Handling of tea utensils
Evolvement over centuries	Hospitality and attention to detail	Proper consumption of matcha

Attendees will also be able to take photos and videos throughout the authentic experience.

Location and Meeting Point

The tea ceremony experience takes place in the Namba/Shinsaibashi district of Osaka.

The meeting point is located at 1-5-26 east of 1-chome, under the yellow sign Ramen Satsuma on the second floor.

To find the location:

1. Head to the Namba/Shinsaibashi district in Osaka.
2. Look for the yellow sign Ramen Satsuma on the second floor.
3. The meeting point is 1-5-26 east of 1-chome, under the Ramen Satsuma sign.
4. Arrive at the location to begin your authentic tea ceremony experience.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers rave about this authentic tea ceremony experience, giving it an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 738 reviews.

Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge, with a 5/5 rating, and the exceptional value for money, scoring 4.8/5.

One guest, Biljana from Saudi Arabia, noted the guide Mai was "knowledgeable, pleasant, and elegant."

Another customer, Steven from the United States, described the experience as "thorough and insightful."

A reviewer from the US, Patricia, said she "learned the history of the tea ceremony and enjoyed it."

Evidently, this tea experience in Osaka delights visitors.

Preparing for the Tea Ceremony

To prepare for the traditional tea ceremony, guests are first welcomed and ushered into a tranquil tea room.

The tea master provides guidance on the proper etiquette and expectations:

1. Remove shoes before entering the room.
2. Sit in the designated seating area, maintaining good posture.
3. Observe silence and refrain from unnecessary movements.
4. Accept the matcha tea and wagashi (sweets) with both hands and savor them mindfully.

With these instructions, the tea ceremony begins, allowing participants to enjoy the time-honored traditions of Japanese tea culture.

What to Expect During the Ceremony

What can participants expect during the captivating tea ceremony experience?

They’ll witness the meticulous preparation of matcha tea by an experienced tea master. Following the Otemae method, the master will skillfully whisk the vibrant green powder into a frothy beverage.

Participants will savor the freshly prepared matcha, accompanied by delectable seasonal Japanese sweets.

Throughout the 45-minute ritual, the tea master will share insights into the rich history, cultural significance, and proper etiquette of the traditional tea ceremony.

Visitors will have ample opportunities to capture photos and videos, ensuring they can preserve the authentic experience.

Additional Information

Along With the immersive tea ceremony experience, visitors have the option to extend their cultural exploration.

Some additional offerings include:

1. Private transportation. For those seeking a seamless experience, private car service is available to and from the tea ceremony location.
2. Onward sightseeing. Visitors can add a guided tour of Dotonbori’s vibrant food scene or nearby historical sites to their itinerary.
3. Photography package. Professional photos can be arranged to capture memorable moments from the tea ceremony.
4. Customizable experiences. The tea ceremony can be tailored to accommodate special requests, such as corporate events or private parties.

Things To Know

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is allowed during the authentic tea ceremony experience. Participants can take photos and videos to capture the traditional preparation and cultural insights provided by the experienced tea master.

Can I Take Home the Traditional Japanese Sweets?

The traditional Japanese sweets are typically served during the tea ceremony to enjoy on-site. However, they are not intended to be taken home, as that would go against the cultural etiquette of the experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Ceremony?

There is no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear clean, comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and legs. Formal attire isn’t required, though it can enhance the traditional cultural experience.

Is There a Minimum Group Size to Book the Experience?

There’s no minimum group size to book the tea ceremony experience. Individuals can reserve their spot and participate in the ceremony, which lasts around 45 minutes and costs $25.57 per person.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free menu for the tea ceremony experience. The provider is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice. Simply mention your requirements when booking to ensure a tailored experience.

Sum Up

Enjoy the serene beauty of an authentic tea ceremony in Osaka’s vibrant Dotonbori district. Led by an expert with over a decade of experience, this 45-minute session offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and etiquette of this timeless ritual. Savor premium matcha and seasonal sweets while gaining lasting insights into Japanese traditions. With a 4.9/5 rating, this enriching experience promises to create cherished memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: