Mindful Wagashi Making & Tea Ceremony in Japanese Garden

Seeking a moment of tranquility in the bustling city? Enjoy the serene world of a traditional Japanese garden and uncover the art of wagashi-making and tea ceremony. Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll learn about the cultural significance behind these time-honored practices while creating your own delicate confections and participating in an authentic tea ritual. Though not suitable for all, this intimate experience offers a chance to deepen your understanding of Japanese traditions and find solace in the present moment. What secrets might the garden unveil?

Key Points

• An immersive 2-hour activity in an authentic tea room within the serene Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden, led by an English-speaking instructor.
• Participants make traditional Japanese sweets, known as nerikiri, and engage in an authentic tea ceremony to learn about cultural significance.
• The activity is located near Haneda airport, with convenient access by car or train, but is not recommended for certain groups.
• The friendly and enthusiastic instructor guides participants through mindfulness practices and provides an in-depth understanding of the techniques and cultural aspects.
• Participants receive an English recipe and video to recreate the experience at home, along with provided aprons and hand towels for full immersion.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Details

Participants often begin their immersive experience by strolling through the serene Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden. Located near Haneda airport, this lesser-known gem offers a tranquil respite.

The 2-hour activity takes place in an authentic tea room within the garden. An English-speaking instructor leads the group through the mindfulness experience of making traditional Japanese sweets, known as nerikiri, and participating in a tea ceremony. Guests will learn about the intricate techniques and cultural significance of these practices.

The hands-on workshop culminates in a tasting of the handcrafted sweets and matcha tea. Participants leave with an English recipe, video, and a newfound appreciation for Japanese culinary arts and traditions.

Location and Accessibility

Located near Haneda airport, the Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden offers a tranquil oasis for the activity. This authentic tea room is situated within the garden, providing a serene setting for the traditional Japanese sweets and tea ceremony experience.

The location is conveniently accessible, with the option to travel by car or take one train transfer from the nearby airport. The activity is suitable for most participants, with a few exceptions:

1. Not recommended for children under 7, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals.
2. Pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
3. Participants should wear comfortable, non-delicate clothing.
4. Handmade sweets are for on-site consumption only.

Instructor and Highlights

The friendly and English-speaking instructor guides participants through the mindful experience of making traditional Japanese sweets and the tea ceremony. This hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japanese culture beyond just creating the sweets.

The instructor’s lectures deepen participants’ understanding of the cultural significance and techniques behind the art of nerikiri and the tea ceremony. Visitors can expect a truly immersive experience, exploring a lesser-known Japanese garden and engaging in mindfulness practices throughout the session.

The instructor’s expertise and enthusiasm ensure a memorable and insightful journey into the world of traditional Japanese confectionery and tea culture.

Activity Inclusions

Strolling through the serene Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden sets the stage for the mindful experience. The activity includes:

1. Making two traditional nerikiri sweets under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.
2. Participating in an authentic tea ceremony, complete with a tasting of matcha and handmade sweets.
3. Receiving an English recipe and video to recreate the experience at home.
4. Wearing a provided apron and hand towel to fully take in the traditional Japanese practices.

The experience also covers the garden and tea room fees, as well as transportation to the site, making it a convenient and all-inclusive offering.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Participant Restrictions

This activity has several participant restrictions. It isn’t suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired, or people over 95. No pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed.

The reason for these restrictions is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, as well as to maintain the traditional and serene atmosphere of the tea room and Japanese garden.

Despite these limitations, the activity is open to a wide range of individuals who are interested in experiencing the art of wagashi making and the Japanese tea ceremony in an authentic setting. Participants are advised to wear comfortable, non-delicate clothing.

Preparation and Attire

Participants should come prepared to immerse themselves fully in the experience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable session, guests are advised to:

1. Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that can be easily moved in.
2. Avoid wearing delicate fabrics or items that may be damaged during the hands-on activities.
3. Bring a change of socks, as guests will be required to remove their shoes before entering the tea room.
4. Arrive at the garden with enough time to explore the grounds and settle into the tranquil setting before the lesson begins.

The mindful nature of the experience requires participants to be present and engaged, so proper attire and preparation are essential for maximizing the benefits of this unique culture.

Consumption and Souvenirs

Consuming the handmade Japanese sweets on-site allows participants to fully savor the flavors and textures of their creations. The delicate nerikiri sweets are meant to be enjoyed immediately, as they aren’t designed for transport.

Following the tea ceremony, guests can indulge in the matcha and wagashi they’ve prepared. While no souvenirs are provided, you will receive an English recipe and video to recreate the sweets at home. This enables them to continue their mindful practice and share their newfound skills with friends and family.

The experience emphasizes the importance of being present and appreciating the moment, key aspects of traditional Japanese culture.

Activity Duration

The activity lasts approximately two hours, allowing participants to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese art forms. The experience includes:

1. A guided stroll through the serene Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden.
2. Hands-on instruction in the preparation of two delicate nerikiri sweets.
3. A traditional tea ceremony, where participants can savor the flavors of matcha and handmade confections.
4. Engaging lectures by the English-speaking instructor, providing deeper insights into the cultural significance and techniques behind these practices.

This mindfulness-focused experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s rich heritage, all within a convenient location near Haneda airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Event?

Yes, participants can take photos during the event. The organizers encourage capturing the experience and sharing it, as long as it does not disrupt the mindfulness of the activities.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the event. Cancellations within 7 days are subject to a 50% refund. No refunds for no-shows.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations?

The experience accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Participants with other dietary needs or restrictions should contact the organizers prior to booking to discuss if the experience can be adjusted to suit their requirements.

Can I Bring a Guest Who Is Not Participating?

Guests can bring a non-participating companion, but they’ll need to purchase a separate ticket. The experience is designed for active participation, so non-participants won’t be able to join the wagashi making or tea ceremony.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Activity?

The activity’s duration can’t be extended. It’s a fixed 2-hour experience that includes a stroll through the garden, making two traditional sweets, and a tea ceremony. No option to lengthen the activity time is available.

Recap

This mindfulness experience immerses participants in the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese garden. Led by an English-speaking instructor, guests create nerikiri sweets and enjoy an authentic tea ceremony, learning about the cultural significance of these practices. While not suitable for all, this activity offers an immersive journey into Japanese traditions, deepening one’s understanding of wagashi and the tea ceremony.

You can check if your dates are available here: