Enjoy Japan’s centuries-old tea ceremony tradition at the Camellia Flower Teahouse in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. Led by knowledgeable hosts, this intimate 45-minute experience teaches you the proper techniques for preparing ceremonial matcha tea. Savor the artful brew alongside traditional Japanese sweets as you fully immerse in the cultural ritual. With the option to enhance the experience by renting a kimono, the Camellia Flower Teahouse offers an unforgettable opportunity to dive deeper into Kyoto’s rich heritage. But what makes this tea ceremony truly stand out from the rest?
Key Points
• Immersive experience in the centuries-old Kyoto tea ceremony at the intimate Camellia Flower Teahouse in Kyoto.
• Hands-on instruction on properly preparing and tasting ceremonial matcha green tea.
• Opportunity to savor traditional Japanese sweets while enjoying the tea in a personalized group of up to 8 travelers.
• Conveniently located near public transportation and other attractions in Kyoto.
• Flexible cancellation policy and optional kimono rental to enhance the cultural experience.
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Overview of the Experience
Visitors can enjoy the centuries-old tradition of the authentic Kyoto tea ceremony, which lies at the heart of Japanese culture.
They’ll be provided with a tea bowl, tea scoops, and whisks, and receive instruction on how to properly prepare matcha.
Guests can then sip the ceremonial green tea and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets while being encouraged to ask questions.
Photography and videography are permitted, allowing visitors to capture the experience.
While guests typically sit on the floor, chairs and tables are available for those who prefer.
This 45-minute session accommodates up to 8 travelers, offering an intimate and immersive cultural encounter.
Location and Accessibility
The tea ceremony experience takes place at Tea Ceremony Camellia FLOWER, located down an alley that branches off the main thoroughfare of Ninenzaka in Higashiyama, Kyoto, near the Park Hyatt hotel and Studio Ghibli store. The meeting point is easy to find, and the end point is back at the same location. While guests usually sit on the floor, there are chairs and tables available if preferred. Unfortunately, the experience is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, but service animals are allowed. The teahouse is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Meeting Point | Tea Ceremony Camellia FLOWER, 349-13 Masuyachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto |
| Location | Down an alley branching from Ninenzaka, near Park Hyatt and Studio Ghibli |
| Accessibility | Not wheelchair or stroller accessible, but service animals allowed |
| Transportation | Conveniently located near public transportation |
| End Point | Back at the meeting point |
Reviews and Ratings
With over 115 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this authentic tea ceremony experience in Kyoto has earned high praise from guests.
Reviewers consistently rave about the exceptional instruction and attention to detail provided by the knowledgeable hosts. Many note that the intimate group size of 8 or fewer allows for personalized guidance on the intricate steps of the traditional tea preparation.
Attendees are impressed by the opportunity to fully enjoy this centuries-old ritual, from handling the authentic tea bowls and whisks to savoring the rich matcha and delicate sweets.
Duration and Group Size
This authentic tea ceremony typically lasts around 45 minutes and accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers per group.
This intimate setting allows for a personalized experience where guests can fully enjoy the ritual. The small group size ensures everyone receives attentive guidance from the knowledgeable host, who’ll teach you the proper techniques for preparing matcha.
You’ll also have ample time to savor the delicate flavors of the tea and sweets, as well as ask any questions you may have.
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese culture, this concise yet enriching experience isn’t to be missed.
Inclusions and Exclusions
During the tea ceremony, guests are provided with essential tools like tea bowls, tea scoops, and tea whisks to prepare the matcha themselves. However, pickup and drop-off services are not included in the experience. The venue also offers an optional kimono rental for an additional charge.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Tea bowls | Pickup and drop-off |
| Tea scoops | N/A |
| Tea whisks | N/A |
| Matcha tea | N/A |
| Sweets | N/A |
The tea ceremony experience is designed to immerse guests in the traditional Japanese tea culture, allowing them to fully engage in the ritual while providing the necessary tools and guidance.
Cancellation Policy
Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony: Camellia Flower Teahouse
The tea ceremony experience can be canceled up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
Changes made less than 24 hours prior aren’t accepted.
If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered an alternative date or a full refund.
This flexible cancellation policy ensures travelers can plan their visit with confidence, knowing they can get their money back if their plans change.
The teahouse understands that unexpected events can arise, so they’ve made the process of canceling or rescheduling straightforward.
Guests can enjoy the tea ceremony experience without worrying about non-refundable bookings.
Customization Options
Visitors can opt to rent a traditional kimono for an additional charge to enhance their authentic tea ceremony experience at Camellia Flower Teahouse. This adds an extra layer of culture, allowing guests to don the classic Japanese attire and fully embrace the traditions of the ceremony. The kimono rental service provides a variety of styles and sizes to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and visually striking ensemble.
| Kimono Rental Options | ||
|---|---|---|
| Styles | Standard | Premium |
| Price | $20 | $30 |
| Includes | Kimono | Kimono, Obi, Accessories |
Preparing for the Ceremony
Guests first gather in the intimate teahouse, where they’re provided with the essential tools needed to participate in the ceremony – a tea bowl, tea scoop, and bamboo whisk.
The instructor demonstrates how to properly hold and use these implements, guiding participants through the intricate steps of preparing matcha, the powdered green tea. Guests carefully follow along, whisking the tea leaves into a frothy, vibrant green liquid. The instructor encourages questions, ensuring everyone understands the proper techniques.
With their matcha ready, guests can then enjoy sipping the earthy, umami-rich beverage, complemented by a delicate Japanese sweet. The ceremony offers a chance to fully take in this time-honored tradition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tea Ceremony Be Customized for Private Events?
The tea ceremony can likely be customized for private events. Many tea houses offer private sessions for individuals or small groups, allowing for a personalized experience. However, specific details would need to be discussed with the tea house directly.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tea Ceremony?
There are no age restrictions for the tea ceremony. It’s suitable for all ages, though young children may need assistance from parents. Participants should be able to sit comfortably on the floor or use provided chairs.
What Should Participants Wear to the Tea Ceremony?
Participants can wear comfortable, casual clothing. While formal attire is not required, dressing neatly and respectfully is recommended to fully immerse in the traditional tea ceremony experience.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
The tea ceremony experience accommodates various dietary needs. Guests with dietary restrictions can notify the host in advance, who will provide suitable sweets and ensure the experience is tailored to their needs.
Can Participants Take Home the Matcha They Prepare During the Ceremony?
Participants can’t take home the matcha they prepare during the ceremony. The matcha is meant to be enjoyed during the experience, not kept afterward. However, guests can purchase matcha powder to take home if desired.
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Recap
The Camellia Flower Teahouse offers a truly immersive Kyoto tea ceremony experience.
Led by knowledgeable hosts, this intimate 45-minute program teaches the art of preparing matcha tea and allows you to savor the cultural ritual along with traditional Japanese sweets.
Conveniently located in the historic Higashiyama district, the teahouse accommodates up to 8 travelers and provides an option to enhance the experience by renting a kimono.
