• Embrace the elegance of Japanese tradition by wearing a kimono.
• Go through the steps of the Japanese tea ceremony with a professional tea master.
• Try traditional Japanese sweets that have been specifically paired with matcha (green tea).

A Bowl of Tea Filled with the Essence of Kyoto

The Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) is a tradition where guests enjoy matcha tea, seasonal sweets, and the tranquil atmosphere of a tearoom adorned with scrolls and flowers. At its heart is the spirit of hospitality—the host’s dedication to creating a moment of comfort and appreciation.

At our venue, you will not only watch but also take part in the ceremony. Learn how to whisk matcha and savor the unique taste of tea you prepare yourself, paired with Kyoto’s delicate seasonal confections.

The History of the Tea Ceremony

Tea was first brought to Japan from China during the Heian period by monks Saicho and Kukai. In the Kamakura period, Zen Master Eisai introduced matcha with Zen Buddhism, where tea became part of training. Over time, tea gatherings evolved into chanoyu, with refined etiquette and utensils, forming a unique Japanese culture.

Once reserved for nobles and merchants, the practice spread widely by the Edo and Meiji periods, becoming a symbol of refinement. The spirit of the tea ceremony—sincerely thinking of others and offering hospitality—remains a core part of Japanese culture today.

Flow of the Tea Ceremony Experience

1. Attire Begin by selecting your favorite kimono. Our staff will assist you in dressing, and for female guests, hair styling is also available to match your outfit.

2. Classroom In the tearoom, learn the history, etiquette, and basic techniques of the tea ceremony. This knowledge will make your experience richer and more meaningful.

3. Demonstration Observe a master’s elegant performance of the tea ceremony. The stillness of the room, paired with graceful, deliberate movements, creates a profound and calming atmosphere.

4. Preparing Tea Whisk your own bowl of matcha using a chasen (tea whisk). The key is to prepare it with sincerity, wishing for a delicious outcome. Our staff will provide guidance so that even beginners can enjoy the process with ease.

5. Enjoying Tea Finally, taste the tea you’ve made, accompanied by exquisite sweets crafted by a long-established Kyoto confectionery. The experience of enjoying your own tea, in such a setting, will surely become a lasting memory of your time in Kyoto.