Tokyo: Matcha And Kimono Experience

Enjoy the captivating world of Japanese tradition with a unique matcha and kimono experience in the heart of Tokyo. Just a short walk from the bustling Shinjuku district, this 1.5-hour small-group session offers an exclusive glimpse into the art of teaism, where you’ll explore the intricate steps of a traditional tea ceremony, learn the art of matcha preparation, and don a beautiful kimono to explore its cultural significance. Savor the rich, first-flush matcha and indulge in authentic Japanese sweets in an intimate, cozy setting – a true sensory delight that promises to transport you to the heart of Japan’s timeless cultural heritage. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the hidden depths of this extraordinary experience.

Key Points

Immersive cultural experience near Shinjuku, including a tea ceremony, matcha making lesson, and the opportunity to wear a traditional Japanese kimono.
Lasts approximately 1.5 hours in a small group setting and includes exclusive first flush matcha, traditional Japanese sweets, and a welcome drink.
Conveniently located with a 7-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoen station and an 8-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchoume station.
Cozy and intimate workshop room setting on the 2nd floor of Dining Bar Call.
Participants must be at least 5 years old, and reservations canceled after a 15-minute delay may be subject to additional fees.

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Experience Overview

The matcha and kimono experience near Shinjuku immerses participants in the serene world of Japanese tea culture and traditional attire, lasting approximately 1.5 hours in a small group setting limited to 7 individuals.

Highlights of the experience include a tea ceremony, an in-depth lecture on teaism and matcha by a tea expert, and a hands-on matcha making lesson.

Participants will also have the opportunity to don a beautiful kimono and explore its cultural significance.

The experience includes exclusive first flush matcha, traditional Japanese sweets, and a welcome drink, as well as the rental of essential tea ceremony tools. It’s an immersive cultural journey not to be missed.

Inclusions

The matcha and kimono experience includes a matcha experience, where you will don a kimono and learn about the art of teaism and matcha preparation from a tea expert.

The experience also includes:

An exclusive first flush matcha, which is the most prized and delicate green tea leaves harvested in early spring.
A matcha making lesson, where guests will learn the proper techniques to prepare the perfect cup of frothy, vibrant green tea.
Traditional Japanese sweets, which perfectly complement the distinct, umami-rich flavor of the premium matcha.

Capping off the experience is a welcome drink and the rental of essential tea ceremony tools, ensuring guests are fully immersed in the world of Japanese tea culture.

Booking Details

Booking the matcha and kimono experience is likely to sell out, given its popularity. From €48.43 per person, guests can reserve their spot and pay later. The workshop room, located on the 2nd floor of Dining Bar Call, is just a 7-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoen station and an 8-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchoume station.

Booking Details
Likely to sell out	From €48.43 per person	Reserve now & pay later
Meeting Point	7 mins walk from Shinjuku-Gyoen station	8 mins walk from Shinjuku-sanchoume station
Important Notes	Reservation canceled after 15 mins delay	Socks required, no alcohol, drugs, or strong fragrances

Meeting Point

The workshop room for the matcha and kimono experience is located on the 2nd floor of Dining Bar Call, just a short 7-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoen station and an 8-minute stroll from Shinjuku-sanchoume station.

Finding the venue is a breeze, as participants can navigate the lively streets of Shinjuku, taking in the vibrant atmosphere along the way.

The meeting point offers a cozy and intimate setting, perfect for immersing oneself in the tranquil world of Japanese tea culture.

Upon arrival, guests can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the captivating matcha and kimono experience that awaits them.

Important Information

Participants must be at least 5 years old to join the matcha and kimono experience, as the activity isn’t suitable for younger children.

Tardiness can result in automatic cancellation of reservations, so guests are encouraged to arrive on time to the 2nd floor workshop room of Dining Bar Call.

While enjoying the tranquil Japanese tea ceremony, visitors are required to wear socks and refrain from making noise, consuming alcohol or drugs, or using strong fragrances, ensuring a peaceful and immersive experience for all.

The organizers have established these guidelines to maintain the traditional ambiance and allow participants to fully enjoy the world of matcha and kimono. Adhering to these rules will ensure a memorable and authentic cultural encounter.

Tea Ceremony

At the heart of this culture lies the mesmerizing tea ceremony, where guests embark on a serene journey through the ancient art of teaism. A skilled tea expert introduces the intricate traditions, guiding participants through the meticulous preparation of the finest first-flush matcha. Guests learn to whisk the vibrant green powder into a frothy elixir, savoring its earthy aroma and smooth, umami-rich flavor.

The tea ceremony evokes a sense of tranquility, with thoughtful movements and the resonant clink of ceramics fostering a mindful appreciation for the present moment.

The ceremonial matcha is sourced from the first harvest of the year, ensuring its exceptional quality.

Participants use traditional bamboo whisks and ceramic bowls to prepare the matcha.

The ritual emphasizes harmony, respect, and the beauty of simplicity in every gesture.

Matcha Making Lesson

Following the matcha tea ceremony, guests embark on a hands-on matcha-making lesson, led by the resident tea expert.

Delving deeper into the art of matcha, participants learn the proper techniques for preparing this revered green tea, from precisely measuring the powder to masterfully whisking it into a frothy delight.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable instructor, they discover the subtle complexities and time-honored traditions that elevate the simple act of making matcha into a mindful, sensory experience.

Participants are captivated as they carefully scoop the vibrant green matcha powder, methodically add the perfect amount of hot water, and skillfully whisk the mixture until it transforms into a smooth, emerald-hued beverage.

This intimate lesson offers a deeper appreciation for the art of matcha.

Japanese Traditional Sweets

Alongside the matcha experience, guests indulge in a selection of traditional Japanese sweets, handcrafted to perfectly complement the earthy, umami flavors of the revered green tea. These exquisite confections, meticulously prepared by the on-site culinary experts, offer a delightful contrast to the matcha’s robust profile, delighting the senses with their delicate textures and subtly sweet nuances.

The lineup features:

Wagashi, a delicate confection made with mochi and red bean paste, its soft, chewy texture a harmonious counterpoint to the matcha’s intensity.
Higashi, a crisp, elegant wafer infused with the essence of cherry blossoms, its floral notes dancing across the palate.
Dorayaki, a pillowy pancake sandwich filled with a sweet, smooth azuki bean paste, providing a comforting, satisfying finish to the matcha experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Matcha Powder?

No, participants can’t bring their own matcha powder for this experience. The provided matcha powder is exclusive to the event and part of the experience. Visitors should come ready to learn how to properly prepare matcha tea under the guidance of the tea experts.

Is There a Dress Code for the Kimono?

The dress code for the kimono experience is formal. Guests are expected to dress in traditional Japanese attire, which the experience provides. Participants will wear the provided kimono throughout the entire 1.5-hour matcha and teaism workshop.

Can I Take the Kimono Home After the Experience?

No, you can’t take the kimono home after the experience. The kimono is provided for you to wear during the event, but it must be returned at the end. This ensures the item can be cared for and used by future participants.

Are Vegetarian/Dietary Options Available for the Sweets?

The experience offers vegetarian and dietary options for the traditional Japanese sweets served during the matcha and kimono session, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the culture.

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography during the tea ceremony is generally permitted, though participants are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the serene atmosphere. Discreet, silent photography can allow guests to capture the elegance of the ritual.

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