Tea Ceremony in 100 Years Old Townhouse With Tables and Chairs

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, a unique tea ceremony experience awaits. Hosted in a century-old townhouse, this intimate setting blends tradition with modern comfort, offering guests a chance to enjoy the serene art of matcha preparation. Unlike typical floor seating, tables and chairs allow for a relaxed yet authentic exploration of Kyoto’s rich tea heritage. As you savor the delicate flavors and seasonal sweets, you’ll discover why this one-of-a-kind experience has captivated visitors from around the world.

Good To Know

• Authentic tea ceremony experience in a century-old traditional townhouse setting with tables and chairs for comfortable seating.
• High-quality matcha tea sourced from Uji, Kyoto, paired with seasonal Japanese sweets for a harmonious sensory experience.
• Customizable tea preparation with guidance from a skilled host on using traditional tea ceremony tools.
• Intimate setting promotes a deeper appreciation of the tea ritual and Japanese cultural nuances.
• Convenient meeting point located near popular tourist sites in Kyoto, with easy accessibility via public transportation.

Authentic Japanese Experience

As visitors step into the century-old townhouse, they’ll be immersed in an authentic Japanese experience that transports them back in time.

They’ll learn the traditional tea ceremony from a skilled host, who’ll guide them through the precise movements and customs. The fragrant, emerald-green matcha tea and delicate seasonal sweets offer a taste of Japanese culture.

Guests can even don a kimono, embracing the elegant aesthetic. This intimate setting allows travelers to fully engage with the ritual, gaining a deeper appreciation for Japan’s rich heritage and the art of mindful tea preparation.

Kyoto’s Rich Tea Tradition

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, has long been revered as the epicenter of the nation’s rich tea tradition.

For centuries, the city has been home to some of the country’s most renowned tea masters, who’ve perfected the art of preparing and serving the perfect cup of matcha.

This centuries-old practice is celebrated through the tea ceremony, a ritualistic experience that invites guests to appreciate the beauty and nuance of this timeless tradition.

Partaking in a tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto townhouse allows visitors to enjoy the heart of Japan’s tea culture.

Matcha and Seasonal Sweets

The tea ceremony revolves around the exquisite pairing of high-quality matcha from Uji, Kyoto, and seasonal Japanese sweets known as higashi. Uji, a historic tea-producing region, is renowned for its superior matcha. Guests will enjoy two cups of this fragrant, velvety green tea. The higashi, or dry confections, showcase the beauty of the season through their intricate shapes and flavors. These artisanal sweets complement the umami-rich matcha, creating a harmonious sensory experience.

Matcha	Higashi Sweets
High-quality from Uji, Kyoto	Seasonal beauty and flavors
2 cups served	2 types provided
Fragrant and velvety	Artisanal dry confections
Umami-rich flavor	Complement matcha perfectly
Historic tea region	Authentic Japanese treats

Customizable Tea Making

Guests are invited to customize their own tea experience by using traditional tools and techniques under the guidance of the host.

They’ll learn the proper steps to prepare matcha tea, from whisking the powder into hot water to achieving the perfect froth.

The host provides:

1. Chasen (bamboo whisk) and Chashaku (bamboo tea scoop) for mixing the matcha.
2. Chawan (ceramic tea bowl) and Chu-ire (bamboo tea container) to hold and serve the tea.
3. Explanations on tea etiquette and the cultural significance of each tool.

This hands-on interaction allows travelers to enjoy the art of traditional Japanese tea preparation.

Optional Kimono Rental

Perhaps the most enchanting aspect of this experience is the optional kimono rental. For just 500 JPY, visitors can don a traditional 2-piece kimono and fully enjoy the cultural ambiance.

The host will assist with the proper donning, ensuring a perfect fit. Wearing the elegant kimono adds an extra layer of authenticity to the tea ceremony, allowing participants to feel as if they’ve been transported back in time.

This optional add-on is a unique opportunity to elevate the experience and create lasting memories of your time in the historic Kyoto townhouse.

Convenient Meeting Point

Conveniently located behind Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya, the Japanese Culture Experience Kangetsu Kyoto serves as the meeting point for this captivating tea ceremony.

This central location ensures easy access, with several advantages:

1. Close proximity to popular tourist sites like Kiyomizudera and Gion.
2. Well-connected via public transportation, with the nearest bus stop just a short walk away.
3. Ample signage and recognizable landmarks make it simple to find.

The return point is also the same as the meeting location, providing a seamless start and end to this immersive cultural experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Although the tea ceremony experience is offered at an attractive discounted price, travelers can still take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the event.

This flexible policy allows guests to easily adjust their plans if needed. The confirmation is received at the time of booking, providing travelers with all the necessary details.

While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

For those who prefer, the reserve now and pay later option is available, making the booking process more convenient.

Accessibility and Transportation

The tea ceremony experience takes place in a location that isn’t wheelchair accessible. The meeting point is behind a Starbucks Coffee shop, requiring attendees to navigate narrow alleyways.

Plus, the 100-year-old townhouse itself has steps leading up to the entrance. However, the experience is conveniently located near public transportation.

Attendees can:

1. Take the subway to the Higashiyama Station, which is a 5-minute walk from the meeting point.
2. Ride the bus to the Yasaka Shrine stop, which is a 2-minute walk away.
3. Opt for a taxi or rideshare service directly to the meeting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony. However, participants are kindly requested to avoid using flash and to be mindful of not disrupting the tranquil atmosphere. The host may provide guidance on appropriate photography etiquette.

Can I Purchase Any Items From the Experience?

Travelers can purchase items from the tea ceremony experience. The experience includes 2 types of seasonal Japanese sweets, and there’s an optional kimono rental available for 500 JPY. Any additional beverages, like coffee or alcoholic drinks, can also be purchased.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations?

The experience accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests can request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options when booking. Additional fees may apply for specialized dietary needs. The hosts are happy to accommodate guests’ dietary requirements.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Ceremony?

The dress code for the tea ceremony is casual. Participants can wear comfortable, everyday clothing. However, guests may opt to rent a traditional 2-piece kimono for an additional 500 JPY if they wish to enjoy Japanese cultural attire.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Experience?

The experience duration can’t be extended. The tea ceremony lasts about 1.5 hours and has a set schedule. However, travelers can book additional cultural experiences or activities in Kyoto to extend their day.

The Sum Up

Experience the rich history and serene beauty of a traditional Kyoto tea ceremony in a century-old townhouse. Enjoy the comfort of tables and chairs as you savor high-quality matcha and seasonal sweets, guided through the delicate art of tea preparation. This intimate, immersive experience celebrates the elegance and cultural significance of this timeless ritual. It’s a unique opportunity to dive into Kyoto’s renowned tea tradition.