Private Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony

Immersing oneself in the serene ritual of a Japanese traditional tea ceremony is a captivating cultural experience. Hosted by 和文化体験 寺子屋NINJA in Tokyo, this private event allows visitors to savor the nuances of green tea and traditional sweets in an intimate setting. Conveniently located at Mita Koboji Temple, the ceremony provides a personalized journey into the rich customs and etiquette that have defined this centuries-old practice. With free cancellation available, it’s an opportunity to explore the deeper significance behind this revered tradition.

Key Points

• Private tea ceremony in Tokyo offers an intimate and immersive experience in traditional Japanese tea culture.
• Pricing starts at $67.54 per person and includes powdered green tea and Japanese sweets.
• Meeting point is at Mita Koboji Temple, with convenient access to public transportation.
• Ceremony is not wheelchair accessible and requires sitting on the floor and maneuvering in a confined space.
• Observing customs like removing shoes, sitting on tatami mats, and expressing gratitude to the host are essential.

Experience Overview

The private Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony experience takes place in Tokyo, Japan, and is operated by 和文化体験 寺子屋NINJA.

Priced from $67.54 per person, the experience includes a private tea ceremony with powdered green tea and Japanese sweets prepared by the hostess. Coffee and/or tea options are also available.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

The meeting point is Mita Koboji Temple, with the experience ending at the same location, which is near public transportation.

Ceremony Details

Guests enjoy a traditional tea ceremony with powdered green tea and Japanese sweets prepared by the hostess. Coffee and/or tea options are available. This is a private tour, so only the participant’s group will be present.

Tea Ceremony Details
Tea	Powdered Green Tea
Sweets	Japanese Sweets
Beverage Options	Coffee, Tea

The ceremony takes place in a private setting, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tradition. The intimate experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese tea culture firsthand.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants meet at the Mita Koboji Temple, located at 2-chōme-12-5 Mita, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0073, Japan.

This is the meeting point for the private Japanese traditional tea ceremony. The experience ends back at the same location.

The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it easy for participants to arrive.

During the tea ceremony, only the group will participate, providing a private and intimate experience.

The tea ceremony includes powdered green tea and Japanese sweets prepared by the hostess, as well as coffee and/or tea options.

Accessibility

Although the tea ceremony experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome and can sit on laps during the event.

The intimate setting of the private tea ceremony may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, as the seating and floor space are limited.

However, the hosts are accommodating and strive to ensure all guests can participate comfortably.

Visitors should keep in mind the traditional elements of the ceremony, which involve sitting on the floor and maneuvering in a confined space.

Reviews and Ratings

The modest number of four reviews for this traditional tea ceremony experience have collectively awarded it a high average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

While there are no 5-star ratings reported, the four 4-star reviews indicate a very positive customer experience.

The reviews praised the attentive hostess, authentic ambiance, and the opportunity to enjoy powdered green tea and traditional Japanese sweets.

The fact that the reviews have been checked for authenticity further validates the quality of this culture.

Cultural Significance of the Tea Ceremony

The tea ceremony holds deep cultural significance in Japan, tracing its roots back centuries as a revered practice that transcends the simple act of drinking tea. It is imbued with philosophical, spiritual, and aesthetic dimensions, embodying principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

Principle	Meaning
Harmony	The ideal of balance, cooperation, and oneness with one’s surroundings.
Respect	Honoring your, the host, and the ritual itself.
Purity	Maintaining cleanliness and mindfulness throughout the ceremony.
Tranquility	A state of inner peace and calm attained through the immersive experience.

The tea ceremony offers a window into the rich cultural heritage of Japan, a practice that continues to captivate and inspire both locals and visitors alike.

Etiquette and Customs

Partaking in a Japanese tea ceremony demands adherence to a set of refined etiquette and customs that respect the ceremony’s rich heritage. Guests must remove their shoes, sit on the tatami mats, and avoid distracting movements or noises.

The host performs the tea preparation with meticulous precision, and guests must observe silently. Other customs include:

• Accepting the tea bowl with both hands and a slight bow
• Rotating the tea bowl before drinking
• Complimenting the tea and sweets
• Cleansing the tea bowl before returning it
• Expressing gratitude to the host at the ceremony’s conclusion

Preparing for the Tea Ceremony

Before attending the private Japanese traditional tea ceremony, guests need to prepare themselves mentally and physically. This involves maintaining proper posture by sitting upright with legs folded or kneeling.

Guests should wear clean, modest clothing that allows for comfortable movement. Removing shoes is customary, so guests may want to wear slip-on footwear.

Plus, guests should arrive with an open, respectful mindset, ready to fully enjoy the ceremony’s tranquil atmosphere.

Since You Asked

What Should I Wear for the Tea Ceremony?

For the tea ceremony, it’s best to wear comfortable, modest clothing. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or t-shirts. Opt for a collared shirt, blouse, or sweater and pants or a skirt that falls below the knees.

Can I Bring My Own Tea to the Ceremony?

No, you can’t bring your own tea to the ceremony. The tea and sweets are provided by the hostess as part of the private, traditional experience. Bringing your own would be inappropriate and disrupt the flow of the authentic tea ceremony.

How Long Does the Entire Tea Ceremony Experience Last?

The entire tea ceremony experience typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours. Participants will enjoy the traditional tea preparation and sampling of matcha green tea and Japanese sweets with the hostess during this private, immersive cultural experience.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony experience. However, guests are advised to check with the hostess beforehand, as some hosts may have restrictions on photography to maintain the traditional atmosphere.

Will I Have a Chance to Interact With the Host?

You’ll have a chance to interact with the host during the private tea ceremony. The host will guide you through the steps of the tea preparation and serve you the tea and sweets, allowing for discussion and questions.

The Sum Up

This private Japanese tea ceremony offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural traditions of Japan. Guests can expect a personalized and serene experience, learning about the elaborate etiquette and customs while savoring the flavors of matcha tea and traditional sweets. Conveniently located at Mita Koboji Temple, this 67.54 USD per person tour provides a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with Japan’s timeless cultural heritage.