Kyoto Fushimi Inari: Wagashi Making and Small Group Tea Ceremony

Enjoy the captivating world of Japanese culture with this guided experience in Kyoto. You’ll learn the intricate art of wagashi making under the tutelage of an English-speaking instructor, and gain insights into the preparation and etiquette of the traditional tea ceremony. Delight in the opportunity to craft your own confectionery and brew a warm bowl of matcha, while exploring the tranquil spaces of a local Japanese home. This holistic experience offers a genuine culture, revealing the artistry, traditions, and domestic life that define the essence of Japan. Discover the secrets that lie within this immersive journey.

Key Points

• This activity includes a wagashi making class, small group tea ceremony, and a visit to a local Japanese house in Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari area.
• The wagashi making class is guided by an English-speaking instructor, and you will learn to make traditional Japanese confectionery.
• The small group tea ceremony provides an opportunity to prepare and enjoy two bowls of matcha tea, including one self-prepared.
• Participants will gain insights into Japanese-style living spaces and have the chance to explore the interior of a typical Japanese home.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 8 or wheelchair users, and there are restrictions on photography to preserve the authentic atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity includes a wagashi (Japanese sweets) making class, a small group tea ceremony, and a visit to a local house with traditional Japanese-style rooms.

During the wagashi class, you will learn to make one type of wagashi and one type of Japanese traditional confectionery under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.

The small group tea ceremony offers the opportunity to prepare and enjoy two bowls of matcha tea while learning about tea preparation and etiquette.

Guests will also have the chance to experience a local house, gaining insight into Japanese-style living spaces.

While the activity isn’t suitable for young children or wheelchair users, chairs and tables are available for those who can’t sit on the floor.

Inclusions

This activity includes an English-speaking instructor who’ll guide participants through the wagashi making class and tea ceremony.

Participants will get to prepare 2 bowls of matcha tea, with 1 bowl being self-prepared, and learn how to make 1 type of wagashi as well as 1 type of Japanese traditional confectionery.

The instructor will provide an explanation of tea preparation and etiquette, allowing guests to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese tea experience.

While hotel pickup, drop-off, and gratuity aren’t included, the activity promises an authentic and enriching cultural encounter that showcases the art of wagashi and the elegance of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Exclusions

Hotel pickup and drop-off, calling for a taxi, and gratuity are not included in the activity. Participants will need to arrange their own transportation to and from the event location. While the experience itself is provided, any additional costs or services beyond what is explicitly stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section are the responsibility of your.

What’s Not Included	Details
Transportation	Hotel pickup/drop-off, calling a taxi
Gratuity	Tips for the instructor or staff
Additional Services	Anything beyond the listed inclusions
Food Restrictions	Advance notice required for special needs
Photography	Some restrictions may apply

Restrictions

Certain participants may not be able to fully enjoy the activity, as it isn’t suitable for children under 8 or wheelchair users.

The experience requires guests to sit on the floor, and bare feet or flash photography/video recording isn’t allowed. This is to preserve the authentic atmosphere and ensure everyone can focus on the traditional practices.

While the organizers have provided chairs and tables for those who can’t sit on the floor, it’s important to note these restrictions upfront.

Ultimately, the goal is to offer a genuine culture, so participants should be prepared to follow these guidelines to make the most of the Wagashi making and tea ceremony.

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Additional Information

Chairs and tables accommodate guests who can’t sit on the floor, allowing them to fully engage in the traditional practices. Japanese sweets may vary by season, so organizers recommend checking in advance.

Participants are kindly requested to provide notice of any food restrictions or allergies to ensure their needs are met. While some photo restrictions apply to preserve the authentic atmosphere, guests can still capture memorable moments within the guidelines.

The experience offers:

1. An opportunity to learn about the serene ambiance of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
2. A chance to learn the intricate techniques of wagashi (Japanese confectionery) making.
3. Insights into the rich cultural heritage and etiquette surrounding these timeless traditions.

Wagashi Making Experience

During the wagashi making class, you will learn the intricate techniques required to craft one type of traditional Japanese confectionery.

Under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, guests will meticulously shape and decorate their very own wagashi, gaining insight into the artistry and attention to detail that defines this beloved culinary tradition.

As part of the experience, guests will also have the opportunity to learn about and sample a different type of Japanese traditional confectionery, further seeing the delicate flavors and beautiful aesthetics of this unique gastronomic culture.

The class promises to be a delightful and enriching introduction to the world of wagashi, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for this exquisite art form.

Small Group Tea Ceremony

Following the tea ceremony, guests will prepare and enjoy a warm bowl of matcha green tea under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.

They’ll learn the proper techniques and etiquette for this timeless ritual, savoring the distinct flavors and aromas as they experience the calming ambiance of a traditional Japanese-style room.

The small group tea ceremony will include:

1. An explanation of the various tools and steps involved in the tea preparation process.
2. Hands-on practice brewing a bowl of matcha using the correct procedures.
3. Guidance on how to properly consume the tea, appreciating its nuanced taste and aroma.

This intimate tea experience offers a chance to take in the beauty and serenity of Japanese tea culture.

Visiting a Local House

After the small group tea ceremony, guests will get the chance to visit a local house with traditional Japanese-style rooms, providing a unique culture experience.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the interior of a typical Japanese home, admiring the elegant simplicity of the tatami mats, shoji screens, and other traditional architectural elements.

The host will provide insights into the significance and use of these features, fostering a deeper understanding of Japanese domestic life and aesthetics.

This intimate encounter allows guests to step beyond the tourist experience and gain a more authentic glimpse into the daily lives and customs of the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Entire Experience?

The duration of the entire experience is not explicitly stated. However, it typically lasts several hours, covering the wagashi making class, small group tea ceremony, and visit to a local house with Japanese-style rooms.

Can Participants Take the Wagashi They Make Home?

Participants can take the wagashi they make home. The class includes instruction on creating one type of traditional Japanese confectionery, which attendees get to keep as a souvenir of the experience.

Is the Tea Ceremony Led by a Certified Tea Master?

The tea ceremony is led by a certified tea master, who guides participants through the traditional preparation and presentation of matcha tea, ensuring an authentic cultural experience.

Are Photographs Allowed During the Local House Visit?

The activity description states that some photo restrictions may apply during the visit to the local house to preserve the experience. Guests are advised to check with the tour guides regarding photography policies for this portion of the activity.

Can the Group Size Be Customized for Private Bookings?

The group size can be customized for private bookings. Customers can request a specific group size, and the tour provider will accommodate their preferences within the restrictions outlined in the activity overview.

Recap

This immersive cultural experience in Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of wagashi making and participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Visitors will craft their own confectionery and enjoy a matcha tea demonstration, all while exploring the tranquil settings of a local Japanese home.

This holistic experience provides a genuine glimpse into the rich traditions and domestic life that define the essence of Japan.

You can check if your dates are available here: