Kyoto Near Fushimiinari Wagashi Making&Small Group Tea Ceremony

Kyoto’s culinary traditions come alive in a serene setting near the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine. Here, visitors can enjoy the art of wagashi-making and savor the nuanced flavors of ceremonial matcha tea. Led by an English-speaking expert, this intimate workshop promises a genuine cultural experience that transports participants to the heart of Japan’s timeless confectionery heritage. With space limited to just 8 guests, this singular opportunity invites travelers to discover the delicate craftsmanship and deep-rooted rituals that imbue each delectable morsel.

Key Points

• Unique hands-on experience combining traditional wagashi making and a small-group tea ceremony, located near the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine in Kyoto.
• Expert English-speaking instructor guides participants in crafting wagashi, followed by the savoring of two bowls of matcha tea and traditional Japanese confectionaries.
• Intimate experience limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, offering a peaceful and non-touristic setting for an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural traditions.
• Includes a small-group tea ceremony focusing on the ceremonial aspects of matcha, providing a deeper appreciation for traditional Japanese culinary and tea arts.
• Highly rated experience with 100% recommendation, praised for its instructive, authentic, and restorative aspects.

Experience Overview

Travelers visiting Kyoto can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Japan by participating in a unique experience that combines the art of traditional wagashi (Japanese confectionary) making and a small-group tea ceremony.

This 3-hour activity starts at 9:45 am and is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Participants will learn from an English-speaking instructor how to craft their own wagashi, savor two bowls of matcha tea, and indulge in traditional Japanese confectionaries.

This experience is a perfect blend of hands-on learning and cultural appreciation in a peaceful, non-touristic setting.

Location and Accessibility

The experience takes place near the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine in Kyoto, Japan, making it easily accessible for visitors.

It’s just a 15-minute walk from the shrine, allowing you to combine this cultural activity with a visit to the famous red torii gates.

However, the location is in a non-touristic area, providing a peaceful environment away from the crowds.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, so participants should wear easy-to-remove shoes and socks.

Children aged 8-12 can join with an adult, but those under 7 can’t participate due to the nature of the activities.

Activity Details

This cultural experience allows visitors to enjoy the art of traditional Japanese confectionery making and the serene practice of the tea ceremony.

Participants will learn how to prepare and shape wagashi, or Japanese sweets, under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor. The menu includes two bowls of matcha tea and the handcrafted confections.

After the wagashi-making, guests will partake in a small-group tea ceremony, sipping the freshly brewed matcha and appreciating the refined elegance of this time-honored ritual.

The entire experience takes place in a peaceful, non-touristic setting, offering an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural traditions.

Menu and Refreshments

Two bowls of matcha tea and traditional Japanese confectionaries make up the menu for this cultural experience.

The matcha is served in a ceremonial manner, its vibrant green hue and frothy texture a delight. Complementing the tea are an assortment of wagashi – handcrafted sweets that beautifully capture the essence of the season.

These bite-sized delights, with their delicate flavors and intricate designs, provide a sensory journey through Japan’s confectionery traditions. Participants savor each morsel, learning about the ingredients and techniques that give these treats their unique character.

It’s a truly immersive culinary experience.

Instructor and Language

Although the experience is conducted in English, the instructor is a native Japanese speaker who is highly skilled in both languages. This bilingual capability ensures that participants can fully understand and engage with the traditional Japanese confectionary and tea ceremony aspects of the activity. The instructor’s deep expertise and fluency in English allows for clear explanations, thoughtful guidance, and ample opportunity for questions throughout the hands-on workshop.

Instructor Credentials	Details
Native Language	Japanese
Fluency in English	High
Teaching Experience	Extensive
Cultural Knowledge	Exceptional

Participation Requirements

Participants must be at least 8 years old, and children aged 8-12 require an adult companion to join. Unfortunately, those under 7 can’t participate.

The experience also isn’t recommended for caffeine-sensitive travelers, as matcha tea is served. Accessibility is limited, as the venue isn’t wheelchair-friendly.

Participants should wear easy-to-remove shoes and socks, as bare feet aren’t allowed. The activity caters to a specific audience – those comfortable with minimal mobility requirements, able to consume caffeine, and accompanied by an adult if bringing children.

The intimate group size ensures a personalized and immersive cultural experience.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers and reviewers have overwhelmingly praised this immersive cultural experience, as evidenced by the impressive 5.0 rating across 12 total reviews.

Key highlights from traveler feedback include:

1. 100% of participants recommend this experience, deeming it instructive, authentic, and restorative.
2. Visitors appreciated the peaceful, non-touristic setting and the friendly, skilled hostess who guided them.
3. Many noted how the wagashi-making and tea ceremony provided a deeper appreciation for traditional Japanese culinary and tea arts.

This hands-on cultural encounter transports guests to a serene corner of Kyoto, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine.

Additional Information

The experience is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine, making it easily accessible for visitors to Kyoto. The peaceful environment and friendly, skilled hostess provide an authentic and restorative culture. Travelers can reach the location via nearby public transportation options, and confirmation is received at the time of booking. The experience takes place in a non-touristic area, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tradition of wagashi making and the serene tea ceremony.

Proximity	Setting	Confirmation	Transportation	Experience
15-minute walk from Fushimiinari Shrine	Peaceful environment, friendly and skilled hostess	Received at the time of booking	Near public transportation options	Authentic culture

Since You Asked

Is It Possible to Customize the Wagashi Making Experience?

The experience doesn’t seem to offer customization options for the wagashi making. However, the small group size suggests the instructor may be able to accommodate special requests or dietary needs if mentioned in advance.

Can I Take the Wagashi I Make Home With Me?

Yes, participants can take home the wagashi they make during the experience. The freshly-crafted traditional Japanese sweets are packaged for guests to enjoy later as a delightful memento of their hands-on wagashi making class.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Ceremony?

There’s no strict dress code for the tea ceremony, but participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid anything too casual or revealing. The focus is on the ceremony, so keep the attire modest and respectful.

Is Photography Allowed During the Activities?

Photography is generally allowed during the wagashi-making and tea ceremony activities. However, participants are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. The instructor may provide guidance on appropriate times to take photos.

How Long Does the Entire Experience Last?

This immersive experience lasts approximately 2 hours. Travelers can expect to spend around 45 minutes making traditional Japanese sweets and an hour partaking in a serene small-group tea ceremony led by an English-speaking instructor.

The Sum Up

This immersive Kyoto experience offers a chance to explore the captivating world of traditional Japanese confectionery and tea ceremony. Nestled near the iconic Fushimiinari Shrine, the intimate workshop led by an English-speaking instructor promises a memorable and restorative journey, inviting you to craft exquisite wagashi and savor ceremonial matcha tea in a peaceful, non-touristic setting. An opportunity to truly connect with Kyoto’s rich cultural traditions.