The KENNINJI Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture offers travelers an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Kyoto. For just $110 per person, this guided tour delves into the rich traditions of Kennin-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most celebrated Zen monasteries. Guests can expect to explore the temple’s striking architecture, learn about the intricacies of the Japanese tea ceremony, and savor premium matcha and sweets. With limited availability Monday to Friday, this exclusive experience is not to be missed by those seeking an authentic taste of Kyoto‘s spiritual heritage.
Key Points
- Guided cultural tour of Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan, including a traditional Japanese tea ceremony lecture.
- Tour priced at $110 per person, with a minimum group size of 4 participants.
- Inclusions cover temple entrance fees, a gift, guide services, coffee/tea, and matcha green tea tasting.
- Meeting point is at Kennin-ji Temple, with the closest bus stop being Higashiyama Yasui.
- Tour operates Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 3 PM, from January 27, 2025, to December 21, 2025.
Tour Overview
The KENNINJI Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture is a guided tour and Japanese cultural experience held at the historic Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan.
Priced from $110 per person, the tour includes entrance fees, a temple gift, a guide, coffee/tea, and a matcha green tea and Japanese sweet tasting.
A minimum of 4 participants is required, and the tour operates Mondays through Fridays from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Participants will explore the temple’s architecture and learn about Japanese customs during a tea ceremony lecture.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is conveniently located near public transportation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyoto.
Inclusions
The KENNINJI Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture includes an entrance fee, a temple’s original gift, a guide, coffee and/or tea, and a matcha green tea and Japanese sweet tasting.
The tour provides the following inclusions:
- Entrance fee
- Temple’s original gift
- Guide
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Matcha green tea and Japanese sweet
These amenities ensure a comprehensive cultural experience for participants, allowing them to fully enjoy the rich traditions of Kyoto’s renowned Kenninji Temple.
Meeting Point
Meeting point for the KENNINJI Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture is Kenninji Temple, located at 584 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, Japan.
The closest bus stop is Higashiyama Yasui, serviced by Kyoto city bus numbers 202, 206, and 207.
Participants should arrive at the temple as the tour starts promptly at the scheduled time, which is confirmed with the local provider in advance.
The tour operates Monday through Friday, between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with specific opening hours from January 27, 2025 to December 21, 2025.
Schedule
The tour operates Monday through Friday, between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
To ensure availability, guests should confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.
The tour’s opening hours are from January 27, 2025, to December 21, 2025.
Some key details about the schedule:
- Confirm start time with local provider before your visit
- Tour operates Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Open from January 27, 2025 to December 21, 2025
- Non-refundable, no cancellations allowed
Additional Information
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Most travelers can participate. However, there are no refunds for cancellations – it’s a non-refundable tour.
The tour operator provides the entrance fee, a temple’s original gift, a guide, coffee or tea, and matcha green tea with a Japanese sweet.
All this is included in the tour price, which starts from $110.00 per person. A minimum of 4 people is required, and it’s a private tour, with only your group participating.
What to Expect
Visitors embarking on the KENNINJI Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture can expect an immersive cultural experience within the historic Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan.
The tour features:
- An exclusive guided tour of the temple’s impressive architecture and centuries-old history
- A traditional Japanese tea ceremony lecture, where you will learn about the intricate rituals and etiquette
- Sampling of premium matcha green tea and a delicate Japanese sweet
- The opportunity to receive a special gift from the temple as a memento of the experience
The tour provides a unique opportunity to gain insights into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Highlights of the Tour
This exclusive tour of Kennin-ji Temple offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Participants will be treated to an in-depth exploration of the temple’s impressive architecture and its significance in Japanese history. The highlight is the opportunity to partake in an authentic tea ceremony led by a skilled instructor. Guests will learn the intricate etiquette and traditions behind this time-honored ritual as they sip delicate matcha tea and savor delectable Japanese sweets.
Highlights | Description |
---|---|
Temple Tour | Guided exploration of Kennin-ji’s architectural wonders |
Tea Ceremony | Hands-on lesson in the art of traditional Japanese tea ceremony |
Cultural Immersion | Insight into Japan’s revered cultural practices and history |
Tea Ceremony Lecture
What makes the tea ceremony lecture at Kennin-ji Temple so captivating? The expert instructor’s engaging presentation delves into the nuanced traditions and philosophy behind this revered cultural practice.
Attendees learn about:
- The history and evolution of the Japanese tea ceremony
- The significance of each precise movement and gesture
- The symbolism and meaning of the tea room’s design elements
- The etiquette and customs that participants must observe
Through this informative lecture, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the art of the tea ceremony as a meditative experience that harmonizes the senses and cultivates mindfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Clothing?
The tour provider recommends wearing comfortable and modest clothing, as visitors will be entering religious temples. No special attire is required, but covering up is advised out of respect for the cultural site.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Photographs are generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should avoid using flash and be mindful of any restrictions or requests from the tour guide or temple staff. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children?
There are no age limits or restrictions for children on this tour. However, the tour content and activities may not be suitable for very young children. Parental discretion is advised when booking the tour for families with children.
Is This Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour generally caters to vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, as they can accommodate alternative meal options. However, it’s best to inform the tour provider of any specific dietary needs in advance to ensure a suitable experience.
What Is the Language Proficiency of the Guide?
The guide’s language proficiency is not specified. However, the tour is conducted in Kyoto, Japan, so it’s likely the guide speaks Japanese fluently and may have varying levels of English proficiency to accommodate international guests.
The Sum Up
The Kenninji Executive Tour & Tea Ceremony Lecture offers an enriching cultural experience in Kyoto, Japan. The tour includes entrance fees, a temple gift, and tastings of premium matcha and Japanese sweets. Participants will explore the temple’s architecture and learn about the Japanese tea ceremony. The tour is available Monday to Friday with a minimum group size of four.
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