Kyoto: Table-Style Tea Ceremony at a Kyo-Machiya

Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage comes alive in the table-style tea ceremony at a traditional Kyo-machiya. Guests can enjoy this 1.5-hour experience, led by an English-speaking expert with decades of expertise. From savoring high-quality Uji matcha to indulging in simple kaiseki cuisine, this event offers a glimpse into the historical significance of the Japanese tea tradition. With optional add-ons like kimono rental and calligraphy, the experience promises to be a true cultural journey. Discover the unique charm of this offering and…

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour immersive experience in traditional Japanese tea making, led by an English-speaking instructor with 30 years of experience.
• Priced at $39.65 per person, with an option to rent a traditional kimono for an additional $9.95.
• Held in a historic 100-year-old Kyoto machiya, offering a table-style tea ceremony for modern visitors.
• Includes a tasting of high-quality Uji matcha and simple kaiseki cuisine, along with cultural insights through PowerPoint presentations.
• Provides an opportunity to engage in a calligraphy experience during the ceremony, creating a personalized memento.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

The tea ceremony experience offers visitors a 1.5-hour immersion into the traditional Japanese art of tea making.

Priced from $39.65 per person, the table-style ceremony takes place in a historic 100-year-old Kyoto machiya.

Led by an English-speaking instructor with 30 years of experience, guests learn to prepare matcha using traditional tools and enjoy a tasting of high-quality Uji matcha.

The experience also includes a sampling of simple kaiseki cuisine and traditional sweets.

Advance booking is recommended as availability is limited, and a full refund is offered for cancellations up to 24 hours prior.

Cultural Insights

Although the tea ceremony is a centuries-old Japanese tradition, this experience offers a table-style format that makes it more accessible to modern visitors.

Participants will learn to properly prepare and enjoy high-quality matcha, a powdered green tea, using traditional tools.

The ceremony also includes a tasting of simple yet refined kaiseki cuisine and traditional sweets.

Throughout the experience, the English-speaking instructor provides insights into the development of the tea ceremony through PowerPoint presentations, enriching the cultural understanding of attendees.

Welcome Drinks

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a choice of welcome drinks – either sake or non-alcoholic beverages. This sets the tone for the immersive tea ceremony experience.

The sake option allows participants to sip on the local specialty from the nearby sake town of Fushimi. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, there are refreshing alternatives available.

These welcome drinks help guests relax and transition into the serene, traditional atmosphere of the centuries-old machiya house.

It’s a thoughtful way to begin the cultural journey of the Kyoto tea ceremony.

Kimono Rental

Guests have the option to arrive 30 minutes early and don a traditional Japanese kimono for the tea ceremony.

Kimono rental adds an extra touch of authenticity to the experience. The rental fee is $9.95 per person. Trained staff will assist guests in properly wearing the kimono and accessories.

Guests should inform the venue if they’d like to rent a kimono when booking the experience. Arriving early ensures ample time to get dressed and enjoy the full tea ceremony in traditional Japanese attire.

This option allows guests to fully enjoy the cultural experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Calligraphy

During the tea ceremony, guests have the opportunity to engage in a calligraphy experience. Participants can write their name in traditional Japanese calligraphy, using a brush and ink.

This souvenir activity allows visitors to:

1. Gain insight into the art of calligraphy.
2. Create a personalized memento of their tea ceremony experience.
3. Appreciate the cultural significance of this centuries-old practice.

After the calligraphy session, guests can choose to take home their name written on a traditional fan or envelope, preserving the moment as a unique keepsake from their Kyoto tea ceremony.

Shopping and Dining

Visitors can explore a variety of casual shopping malls and restaurants in the Fushimi area, located near the tea ceremony venue.

The Aeon Mall Fushimi offers a range of retail shops, from clothing to electronics, as well as a food court with diverse dining options.

For a more traditional experience, the Fushimi Inari Market features local crafts, souvenirs, and street food stalls.

Nearby, the Gokuraku-jo Japanese garden and the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine provide opportunities to immerse in Kyoto’s cultural heritage before or after the tea ceremony experience.

Location and Accessibility

The traditional, 100+ year-old Machiya house in southern Kyoto, a famous sake town, serves as the venue for this tea ceremony experience.

To reach the venue, turn right at Mizuho Bank in the shopping street, where a guide in kimono will be waiting at the entrance.

The ceremony is conveniently located, just 20 minutes from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station and 25 minutes from Kintetsu Kyoto Station.

Nearby attractions include the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, making it easy to combine the tea ceremony with other sightseeing.

The venue’s accessibility and proximity to major landmarks ensure a seamless, immersive cultural experience.

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Kyoto tea ceremony experience, with an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 728 reviews.

Highlights include an Australian traveler who found the experience "unforgettable" and loved learning about the tea ceremony and kimono.

Another Australian reviewer genuinely enjoyed the experience, praising the "lovely and funny" teacher.

A US customer described it as an "amazing way to learn about culture" and fun to get dressed up.

The tea ceremony at the traditional Kyo-Machiya in Kyoto seems to offer an authentic and engaging culture for visitors.

FAQ

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony, but participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience. Check with the instructor for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Is the Tea Ceremony Suitable for Children?

The tea ceremony may not be the most suitable activity for young children. The experience is quite formal and contemplative, requiring focus and patience that may be challenging for some younger participants. However, older children may enjoy it with proper preparation.

Do I Need Any Prior Experience With Tea Ceremonies?

No, you don’t need any prior experience with tea ceremonies. The instructor has 30 years of experience and will guide you through the process, from making matcha to enjoying traditional sweets. It’s a great introduction to this cultural experience.

What Should I Wear to the Tea Ceremony?

You don’t need any special attire. Wear comfortable, casual clothing that you can move in easily. If you opt for the kimono rental, arrive 30 minutes early to get dressed.

Are There Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options for the Cuisine?

Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request. The hosts are happy to accommodate dietary needs – just let them know when booking your reservation.

Sum Up

Enjoy the rich tea culture of Kyoto with this table-style tea ceremony experience. Enjoy high-quality matcha, savor Japanese cuisine, and learn about the historical significance of this revered tradition. Enhance your cultural journey with optional kimono rental and calligraphy. This 1.5-hour event, led by an expert instructor, provides an authentic and memorable insight into the world of Japanese tea making.

You can check if your dates are available here: