Japanese Traditional Sweets Making and Tea Ceremony

Delving into the intricate world of Japanese culinary traditions, this immersive experience invites participants to uncover the art of traditional sweets making and the elegance of a tea ceremony. From crafting exquisite Nerikiri confections to savoring the nuances of ceremonial matcha, this 95-minute journey promises a captivating exploration of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and meticulous techniques, the experience offers a unique opportunity to create cherished memories and acquire valuable skills. What secrets await those who embark on this delectable journey?

Key Points

• This 95-minute immersive experience allows participants to make seasonal Japanese sweets, including flower-shaped Nerikiri and Kinton Nerikiri, and partake in a traditional tea ceremony.
• Participants will use high-quality ingredients, such as white and red bean paste from Kyoto’s long-established shops, to craft the traditional confections.
• The experience includes a matcha grinding demonstration and the opportunity to enjoy the self-made sweets and tea.
• Additional options, such as a take-out box for the handmade sweets and a commemorative certificate of completion, are available for an additional fee.
• Non-participating assistants can attend the experience for a helper fee, but children under 2 years old can attend for free if seated on a parent’s lap.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

The Japanese Traditional Sweets and Tea Ceremony experience offers participants an immersive 95-minute journey into the heart of Japanese culinary traditions.

Priced from €17.46 per person, this activity includes making seasonal flower-shaped Nerikiri and Kinton sweets, as well as a traditional tea ceremony.

Participants can opt for a sweets take-out box and an experience completion certificate, while non-participating assistants can pay a helper fee.

The experience operates from 10:00 to 17:00 and requires navigating stairs, with English translation available upon request.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.

Program Schedule

The program schedule begins with an explanation of Japanese traditional sweets, followed by the making of two seasonal sweets – flower-shaped Nerikiri and Kinton Nerikiri.

After crafting the sweets, there’s a 55-minute break for participants to rest.

The second part of the program covers tea, with a matcha grinding demonstration and a traditional tea ceremony experience.

At the end, there’s time for picture-taking and enjoying the self-made sweets and tea.

The entire experience lasts 95 minutes, concluding with the conclusion of the tea ceremony.

Ingredients and Crafting

Although the experience uses white and red bean paste from Kyoto’s long-established shops, you will create two seasonal Japanese sweets – a flower-shaped Nerikiri and a Kinton Nerikiri.

Nerikiri is a high-grade sweet made from colored white bean paste shaped like seasonal flowers or fruits. The special single-origin Uji Matcha used in the tea ceremony adds an authentic touch.

Guests will learn the intricate techniques of Nerikiri making and witness the demonstration of Matcha grinding. The hands-on experience allows participants to appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail in traditional Japanese confectionery.

Additional Options and Fees

Along With the core experience, participants have the option to purchase a take-out box for their handmade sweets at 100 JPY.

Those who’d like a commemorative certificate of completion can get one for 300 JPY.

For non-participating assistants, there’s a helper fee of 1,330 JPY, or 1,580 JPY if booked on the same day.

All optional add-ons are subject to availability.

Participants should take note of the cancellation policy and any fees that may apply for changes after cancellation.

Children under 2 can attend for free if seated on their parents’ laps.

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Important Information

The experience operates daily from 10:00 to 17:00. However, participants should note that there is no elevator, and stairs are required to reach the venue. English translation is available upon request. It’s important to be aware of the cancellation policy, as fees may apply for changes after the cancellation deadline. Children under 2 years old can attend for free if seated on a parent’s lap, but non-participants are not allowed entry.

Requirement	Details
Elevator	No
Stairs	Required to reach venue
English	Available upon request
Cancellation	Fees may apply for changes after deadline
Children under 2	Free if seated on parent’s lap
Non-participants	Not allowed entry

The Art of Nerikiri Making

Nerikiri, a beloved Japanese traditional sweet, showcases the artistry and meticulous craftsmanship of the experienced confectioners.

Guests will delight in shaping and molding these delicate sweets, each a unique representation of the season. The process involves kneading and shaping the high-grade bean paste into flower or fruit-like forms, a true testament to the skill and creativity of the makers.

Participants will craft two seasonal Nerikiri, learning the intricate techniques that have been passed down for generations. This hands-on experience allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and attention to detail that goes into these exquisite Japanese confections.

Exploring the World of Matcha

What makes Matcha, the powdered Japanese green tea, so revered and integral to the traditional tea ceremony?

Grown exclusively in Uji, near Kyoto, Matcha is made from the finest shade-grown tea leaves, which are carefully ground into a fine, vibrant green powder. This unique processing preserves the tea’s natural nutrients, antioxidants, and umami flavor.

During the tea ceremony, the Matcha is ceremoniously whisked with hot water, resulting in a frothy, intensely flavored elixir.

Sipping Matcha is a sensory experience, with its grassy aroma, smooth texture, and umami taste. The ritual of Matcha preparation and consumption is a central part of Japanese culture and hospitality.

Savoring the Flavors of Tradition

As guests enjoy the serene tea ceremony, they’re also invited to savor the delicate flavors and intricate craftsmanship of traditional Japanese sweets.

The experienced instructors guide participants through the meticulous process of making Nerikiri, a high-grade confection shaped like seasonal flowers and fruits. Using premium ingredients from Kyoto’s legacy shops, guests create two distinct morsels that delight the senses.

The fragrant Matcha, expertly ground before their eyes, heightens the experience as they sip and savor the harmonious blend of sweet and bitter notes.

This is a true taste of Japanese tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Sweets I Make?

Participants can’t customize the sweets they make during this experience. The sweets created are pre-determined seasonal varieties, using traditional recipes and ingredients from long-established shops in Kyoto.

Is the Experience Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?

Yes, the experience is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. The sweets are made with white and red bean paste, without any animal-based ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan participants can enjoy the full experience.

Are There Gluten-Free Options Available?

The activity doesn’t specify if there are gluten-free options available. It’d be best to check with the provider directly to confirm if they can accommodate any dietary restrictions, including gluten-free needs, prior to booking the experience.

How Much Japanese Language Proficiency Is Required?

The experience provides English translation upon request, so minimal Japanese proficiency is required. Participants can enjoy the hands-on activities and tea ceremony without extensive language skills.

Can I Bring My Own Camera to Take Photos?

Yes, participants can bring their own cameras to take photos during the experience. The program includes a dedicated "Picture time" session, allowing guests to capture memories of the event.

The Sum Up

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to dive into the rich culinary heritage of Japan. Participants will craft exquisite Nerikiri sweets, learn the art of matcha preparation, and savor the flavors of tradition, all while creating cherished memories and skills to take home. It’s a captivating journey that celebrates the artistry and attention to detail that defines Japanese confectionery.

You can check if your dates are available here: