Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony With Scenic Garden Views

Nestled within the charming gardens of Kiyomizu-dera temple, the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers a truly immersive cultural experience. Guests are invited to savor the rich, vibrant flavors of matcha tea while learning the intricate rituals of this centuries-old tradition. As they sip their tea and indulge in traditional Japanese sweets, they’ll be captivated by the serene natural beauty surrounding them. This unique event promises to transport visitors to the heart of Kyoto’s timeless elegance.

Key Points

• Experience a traditional Japanese matcha tea ceremony in Kyoto, just 50 meters from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
• Enjoy scenic views of the well-manicured gardens while sipping on two cups of vibrant green matcha tea and sampling traditional Japanese sweets.
• Enjoy the ritual’s precise movements, as the host prepares the tea using a bamboo whisk.
• The intimate setting accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers per session, ensuring a personalized and authentic experience.
• With a price of $40.52 per person and a free cancellation policy, this tea ceremony offers exceptional value and flexibility.

Overview of the Tea Ceremony Experience

The Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural traditions of Japan.

This 5-star experience, located in the heart of Kyoto, allows guests to enjoy two cups of matcha tea along with traditional Japanese sweets.

Participants can also capture the moment with a photo and 30-second video, and even don a kimono for an authentic touch.

The ceremony takes place in a scenic garden setting, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

With a maximum of 12 travelers per session, this intimate experience provides a glimpse into the intricate art of Japanese tea culture.

Meeting Point and Directions to the Venue

Where exactly does the tea ceremony take place? The meeting point is at Tea ceremony SAKAGUCHIAN (茶道体験 阪口庵), located at 3-chōme-334 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0043, Japan.

To get there:

1. From Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, walk 50 meters from Sannen-zaka.
2. Turn right at the large gate, then left before the garden.
3. Walk about 10 meters to the entrance.

The directions are straightforward, guiding you directly to the venue for the authentic Kyoto Kiyomizu tea ceremony experience.

The Traditional Matcha Tea Ceremony

When guests arrive at the Tea ceremony SAKAGUCHIAN, they’re guided into a tranquil, traditional Japanese-style room.

The host, dressed in an elegant kimono, expertly prepares the matcha tea using a bamboo whisk. Guests watch intently, learning about the precise movements and careful attention to detail that goes into the ritual.

Soon, they’re served two cups of vibrant green matcha, along with delicate Japanese sweets called wagashi.

The tea’s earthy, umami flavors and the sweets’ subtle sweetness create a harmonious pairing, transporting guests into the heart of Japanese culture.

Enjoying the Scenic Garden Views

After the serene tea ceremony, guests step outside to be greeted by the stunning views of the Kiyomizu-dera temple’s picturesque gardens.

The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene ponds create a tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can:

1. Stroll through the well-manicured paths, admiring the carefully curated landscape.
2. Pause at the traditional wooden bridges, offering unique perspectives of the gardens.
3. Capture the breathtaking scenery with their cameras, preserving the memories of this enchanting experience.

The seamless blend of the traditional tea ceremony and the natural beauty of the gardens makes this a truly memorable and immersive cultural encounter in Kyoto.

Indulging in Japanese Sweets (Wagashi)

As guests settle into the serene tea ceremony, they’re presented with an array of delicate Japanese sweets, known as wagashi.

These petite confections aren’t merely desserts, but edible works of art, meticulously crafted to reflect the changing seasons and natural beauty.

Wagashi are made from rice flour, red bean paste, and other natural ingredients, often shaped into intricate designs.

Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, from the delicate crunch of mochi to the smooth, velvety richness of the bean paste.

Savoring these exquisite sweets enhances the overall tea ceremony experience.

Renting the Kimono for the Experience

How does the kimono rental work for this tea ceremony experience? Renting a traditional Japanese kimono is a unique and immersive part of the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony.

The experience includes:

1. Selecting from a variety of colorful and elaborately patterned kimono options.
2. Receiving guidance from the staff on how to properly wear and adjust the kimono.
3. Taking photos in the kimono against the scenic garden backdrop before the tea ceremony begins.

Donning the kimono allows visitors to fully embrace the cultural traditions of this ancient Japanese tea ritual, creating a memorable and visually stunning experience.

Capturing Memorable Moments With Photos and Videos

Visitors can immortalize their Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony experience through the included photo and 30-second video.

During the session, a professional photographer captures a stunning portrait against the serene garden backdrop. Guests can then showcase their elegance in the traditional kimono through a brief video clip.

These mementos allow travelers to relive the tranquil ambiance and culture long after the experience. With the photo and video, visitors can effortlessly share their Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony journey with family and friends, preserving the memories of this authentic Japanese tradition.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Additional Information

The Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony experience is priced at a reasonable $40.52 per person, offering exceptional value for the immersive cultural encounter.

This experience comes with a lowest price guarantee, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the event.

The experience includes:

1. Flexibility with the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option.
2. A maximum of 12 travelers per session, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
3. Important considerations, as the tea ceremony isn’t recommended for those with back issues or mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tea Ceremony Experience Fully Guided Throughout?

The tea ceremony experience is fully guided throughout. Participants are led by an expert host who provides detailed explanations and demonstrations of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony rituals and customs.

What Is the Attire Suggested for the Tea Ceremony?

The tea ceremony attire is casual and comfortable. Participants can wear regular clothing, but kimono rental is included for a more traditional experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the ceremony involves some seated positions.

Can the Experience Be Customized for Special Dietary Needs?

The tea ceremony can likely be customized for special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options for the traditional Japanese sweets. Travelers should communicate any requirements when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Are There Any Additional Fees for the Kimono Rental?

The kimono rental is included in the experience price, so there are no additional fees. Guests can simply enjoy the traditional garment as part of the fully-inclusive Kyoto tea ceremony package.

Can the Experience Be Booked for a Private Group?

Yes, the tea ceremony experience can be booked for a private group. The listing notes a maximum of 12 travelers per session, so guests can reserve the entire experience for their own party.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the serene beauty of Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera temple gardens as you experience the enchanting Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony. Savor the vibrant matcha tea and traditional wagashi sweets, dress in a kimono, and capture unforgettable moments amidst the stunning natural surroundings. This intimate 5-star event offers a truly authentic cultural encounter, blending timeless tradition with breathtaking scenery.