Shanghai: Wagashi-Making and Song Dynasty Tea Ceremony

Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Shanghai through a captivating experience that blends artistry, culinary skills, and ancient traditions. Spend 2.5 hours creating seasonal Wagashi treats using traditional techniques and ingredients, then engage in the elegant practice of a Song Dynasty tea ceremony. With English and Japanese translations provided, you’ll gain deep insights into China’s vibrant history while refining your palate and appreciation for these time-honored practices. This compelling journey awaits those eager to discover the nuanced beauty that lies within Shanghai’s cultural tapestry.

Good To Know

• Immersive 2.5-hour experience in Shanghai where participants create four types of seasonal Wagashi and partake in a traditional Song Dynasty tea ceremony.
• Wagashi-making teaches intricate techniques like molding, rolling, and layering, using ingredients like sweet bean paste and rice flour.
• The tea ceremony focuses on the art of whisking tea powder to create intricate surface patterns, representing more than just tea enjoyment.
• Cultural insights and English/Japanese translations are provided to enhance appreciation of the ancient Chinese traditions.
• The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now & pay later" option for convenience.

Experience Overview

Travelers can join an immersive Wagashi-making and traditional Song Dynasty tea ceremony experience in the vibrant city of Shanghai.

The 2.5-hour activity allows participants to create four types of Wagashi, traditional Japanese confections, and take part in a tea ceremony rooted in the Song Dynasty.

Priced from $192.82 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve the activity and pay later.

Set in a warm, traditional setting, the experience provides cultural insights with English and Japanese translations, offering a rare opportunity to learn about ancient Chinese traditions.

Wagashi-Making Artistry

The Wagashi-making segment of the experience allows participants to hone their skills in the centuries-old art form. Over the course of the workshop, guests will craft four distinct Wagashi, each reflecting seasonal beauty and flavors. The intricate process involves precision, patience, and an eye for detail. Participants will gain insight into the artistry behind these delicate treats, learning traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Wagashi Type	Description	Ingredients	Technique
Momiji-gashi	Maple leaf-shaped	Sweet bean paste, rice flour	Molding, coloring
Tsukimi-dango	Moon-viewing dumplings	Mochi, bean paste	Rolling, shaping
Sakura-mochi	Cherry blossom-wrapped rice cakes	Sticky rice, bean paste, cherry leaf	Wrapping, filling
Hishi-mochi	Diamond-shaped layered sweets	Mochi, fruit, kinako	Layering, cutting

Song Dynasty Tea Ceremony

In the second part of this cultural experience, participants are immersed in the elegant and artistic world of the Song Dynasty tea ceremony, known as the Tea Whisking Art.

This ancient ritual involves skillfully whisking tea powder with water to create intricate patterns on the surface. The ceremony isn’t merely about enjoying tea, but an artistic expression that offers a glimpse into China’s rich tea culture.

The experience takes place in a warm, traditional setting, further enhancing the cultural journey.

English and Japanese translations ensure all participants can fully appreciate the artistry and significance of this ancient practice.

Cultural Immersion

Throughout the experience, participants are immersed in the rich cultural heritage of ancient China. The warm, traditional setting enhances the hands-on process, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the artistry and precision involved in Wagashi-making and the Tea Whisking Art.

English and Japanese translations ensure that all participants, regardless of their background, can fully engage with and understand the cultural significance of these ancient practices.

This unique experience offers a rare opportunity to learn about Chinese tea culture and the intricate craftsmanship behind traditional confectionery, immersing guests in a captivating journey through the country’s storied past.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Participants meet at the Yin Studio, located on the 2nd floor of building 17 at 190 Guangyuan Lu in Shanghai.

Look for a bicycle repair stall at the entrance to find the studio.

The experience doesn’t include transportation to and from the venue, so attendees are responsible for their own travel arrangements.

Smoking and flash photography are prohibited during the Wagashi-making and tea ceremony.

This culture offers a rare opportunity to learn about ancient Chinese traditions in a warm, traditional setting with English and Japanese translations provided to ensure all participants fully appreciate the journey.

Free Cancellation and Payment Options

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for those who need to adjust their plans.

Plus, the "Reserve now & pay later" option allows participants to secure their spot without immediate payment. This can be especially useful for those looking to plan their trip in advance.

With these convenient policies, guests can book with confidence, knowing they’ve the freedom to make changes if needed. The experience offers a hassle-free booking process, ensuring a seamless cultural journey in Shanghai.

Duration and Pricing

The experience lasts 2.5 hours and is priced from $192.82 per person.

This culture includes creating four types of traditional Wagashi sweets and participating in a Song Dynasty tea ceremony. Participants can take home their handmade Wagashi creations as a memento.

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

This rare opportunity to learn about ancient Chinese culture in an engaging way isn’t to be missed.

With English and Japanese translations provided, the experience is accessible to a wide audience.

Highlights and Key Details

This immersive experience blends the artistry of traditional Wagashi-making and the elegance of a Song Dynasty tea ceremony, offering participants a captivating glimpse into ancient Chinese culture. Participants will learn to craft four seasonal Wagashi treats, each reflecting the beauty and flavors of the moment. The tea ceremony, known as the "Tea Whisking Art," showcases the skilled whisking of tea powder to create intricate patterns on the surface, a true artistic expression. Ample cultural insights and translation services ensure an enriching journey for all.

Wagashi-Making	Song Dynasty Tea Ceremony	Cultural Insights
Create 4 seasonal Wagashi treats	Experience the "Tea Whisking Art"	Warm, traditional setting
Gain insight into the artistry and precision	Witness the skilled whisking of tea powder	English and Japanese translations provided
Take home your handcrafted Wagashi creations	Explore the artistry and culture of Chinese tea	Rare opportunity to learn about ancient Chinese culture

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Experience Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The experience is suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, as the Wagashi-making workshop can accommodate various dietary needs. Participants should inform the organizers of any special requirements when booking the experience.

Can Participants Take Photos and Videos During the Experience?

While flash photography is not allowed, participants can take non-flash photos and videos to capture their Wagashi-making and tea ceremony experience. However, smoking is prohibited throughout the entire hands-on cultural activity.

What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for This Activity?

The group size for the Wagashi-making and Song Dynasty tea ceremony experience is not specified. However, the small, intimate setting suggests it’s likely a private or small group activity, typically ranging from 2 to 10 participants.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Participation?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. Children and adults are welcome to participate, though the experience may be more suitable for those aged 10 and up who can engage with the intricate Wagashi-making process.

Is the Venue Wheelchair Accessible?

The venue appears to be wheelchair accessible, as the experience description does not mention any accessibility restrictions. Participants should contact the host for specific details on accommodating mobility needs.

The Sum Up

Participants will create four seasonal Wagashi treats and engage in the art of whisking tea, all while seeing the rich cultural heritage of Shanghai. This captivating journey blends artistry, culinary skills, and cultural appreciation, offering a truly unique and unforgettable experience.