Japanese Traditional Breakfast and Tea Ceremony Regular Program

The Japanese Traditional Breakfast and Tea Ceremony Regular Program offers a unique opportunity to take in the heart of Japanese culture. This comprehensive experience combines a savory traditional breakfast with an authentic matcha green tea ritual, led by a bilingual tea master. Participants will not only indulge in the flavors and aromas of Japan but also gain insights into the intricate traditions that have shaped the country’s rich culinary and tea-drinking heritage. With limited availability and personalized service, this program promises to captivate the senses and leave one eager to discover more about the enchanting world of Japanese customs.

Key Points

• Offers an authentic cultural experience with a matcha green tea ritual led by a seasoned, bilingual tea master.
• Includes a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring an array of delicate rice dishes, miso soup, and seasonal vegetables.
• Serves ceremonial-grade matcha tea with a rich, umami-forward flavor and vibrant emerald hue.
• Allows participants to perform a second tea ceremony themselves under the tea master’s instruction.
• Caters to a wide range of travelers with pick-up and drop-off service and wheelchair accessibility.

Overview of the Program

The traditional Japanese breakfast and tea ceremony program provides participants with an authentic cultural experience, featuring a matcha green tea ritual led by a bilingual, seasoned tea master and the opportunity to perform a second tea ceremony themselves under instruction.

Travelers can enjoy traditional Japanese confections alongside the tea ceremony. The program is limited to a maximum of 28 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized setting.

With a pick-up and drop-off service and wheelchair accessibility, the experience caters to a wide range of travelers.

Whether you’re interested in Zen practices, Japanese art, or simply seeking a unique culinary and culture, this program offers a memorable journey into the heart of Japanese tradition.

Traditional Japanese Breakfast

Participants in the traditional Japanese breakfast experience can expect to savor an array of authentic Japanese cuisine, including delicate rice dishes, miso soup, and seasonal vegetables. The breakfast features a selection of traditional Japanese fare, each item thoughtfully prepared and presented.

Steamed rice, known as ‘gohan’, is served with savory accompaniments like pickled vegetables, ‘natto’ (fermented soybeans), and ‘umekko’ (pickled plum).

Miso soup, a staple in Japanese cuisine, is made with a flavorful broth and features tofu, seaweed, and other seasonal ingredients.

A variety of small plates showcase the freshness and artistry of traditional Japanese cooking, such as grilled fish, tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette), and seasonal vegetables.

Authentic Matcha Green Tea

What sets the matcha green tea apart is its authentic, ceremonial-grade quality. Meticulously cultivated, hand-picked, and stone-ground, the matcha served during this experience imparts a rich, umami-forward flavor and vibrant emerald hue.

Participants will have the opportunity to witness the intricate preparation of this revered Japanese beverage by a seasoned tea master. The tea master’s deft movements and expert techniques will provide a glimpse into the centuries-old traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Guests will then have a chance to try their hand at preparing a bowl of matcha themselves, guided by the tea master’s instruction. This hands-on experience promises to deepen participants’ appreciation for the art and culture of authentic Japanese tea.

Bilingual Tea Master Experience

During the experience, a bilingual licensed tea master with over 5 years of expertise leads the tea ceremony, providing explanations in both English and Japanese.

Guests can expect an engaging and educational journey through the intricate rituals and cultural significance of the Japanese tea tradition.

The tea master’s deep knowledge and passion for the art of tea-making shines through as they guide participants through the ceremony.

Guests will learn about:

1. The importance of proper tea preparation and serving techniques.
2. The symbolism and etiquette behind the various tea utensils and gestures.
3. The influence of Zen philosophy on the tea ceremony and its meditative aspects.

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to gain a genuine understanding of Japanese tea culture.

Second Tea Ceremony Performance

Performing a second tea ceremony under the guidance of the tea master allows guests to immerse themselves deeper into the traditions and techniques of the Japanese tea ritual.

Participants will be provided step-by-step instructions on how to properly prepare and serve the matcha tea, ensuring an authentic experience.

The tea master will offer insights into the cultural significance and Zen philosophy behind each movement and gesture.

This interactive session gives travelers the chance to fully appreciate the discipline, precision, and tranquility that defines the Japanese tea ceremony.

It’s an opportunity to connect with this centuries-old custom on a personal level and gain a renewed sense of mindfulness.

Explanations and Demonstrations

The tea master provides an in-depth explanation of the Japanese tea ceremony, discussing the Zen practices, traditional hanging scrolls, and the significance of the tea utensils used throughout the ritual.

Guests gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage and philosophical underpinnings of this time-honored tradition through the master’s insightful commentary.

The demonstration includes:

1. A detailed overview of the proper etiquette and movement during the tea ceremony.
2. An explanation of the symbolic meaning behind each element, from the matcha preparation to the elegant ceramic vessels.
3. Insights into the Zen principles of mindfulness, harmony, and reverence that underpin the entire ritual.

Participants emerge with a newfound understanding of this exquisite art form.

Accessibility and Transportation

The experience is accessible, as the meeting point is located near public transportation and the surfaces and transportation are wheelchair accessible. This ensures that the traditional Japanese breakfast and tea ceremony can be enjoyed by a wide range of travelers.

Transportation Options	Details
Public Transportation	The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for participants to arrive.
Wheelchair Accessibility	The surfaces and transportation are wheelchair accessible, allowing for full participation in the experience.
Pick-up and Drop-off	The program includes pick-up and drop-off services, providing a seamless and hassle-free experience for all travelers.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If they cancel less than 24 hours prior, they won’t receive a refund.

The program also doesn’t accept changes within 24 hours of the scheduled start time.

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, travelers will be offered a different date or a full refund.

If the minimum number of participants isn’t met, travelers will be offered a different date or experience, or a full refund.

The cancellation policy provides flexibility for travelers while ensuring the reliable operation of the traditional breakfast and tea ceremony program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Experience?

The maximum group size for this experience is 28 travelers. The experience provides a bilingual tea master to guide participants through a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and breakfast.

Can I Request a Specific Time for the Tea Ceremony?

You can’t request a specific time for the tea ceremony. The experience has a set start time of 8:30 am and the tea ceremony is part of the regular program schedule. Specific timing can’t be customized.

Is There an Option to Extend the Program Duration?

The program does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour is a set 3-hour schedule starting at 8:30 am, and there’s no flexibility to lengthen the experience beyond the included activities.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Clothing or Items?

Guests don’t need to bring any special clothing or items. The program provides everything needed, including traditional Japanese attire for the tea ceremony. Participants just need to come prepared to fully enjoy the authentic cultural experience.

How Long Does the Tea Ceremony Typically Last?

The tea ceremony typically lasts about 1-2 hours. It includes a performance by an experienced tea master, as well as an opportunity for participants to try the ceremony themselves with instruction.

Recap

The Japanese Traditional Breakfast and Tea Ceremony Regular Program offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Participants can savor an authentic Japanese breakfast and partake in a traditional matcha green tea ritual, guided by an experienced bilingual tea master.

With its intimate setting, accessibility, and flexible policies, the program provides a personalized and memorable cultural experience.