Tea Ceremony at a Café With 120 Years of History

The Grapevine Café in Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to experience the centuries-old tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony. Nestled in a historic setting that’s over 120 years old, this intimate venue accommodates just eight attendees at a time, ensuring personalized guidance from a seasoned instructor. Participants can expect to learn about the ritual’s rich history, etiquette, and preparation, all while savoring traditional Kyoto sweets. But what truly sets this experience apart is the chance to take in the café’s captivating atmosphere, making it an unforgettable cultural journey.

Key Points

• Participants can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the historic Grapevine Café Kyoto, which has operated for over 120 years.
• The tea ceremony experience includes learning about the history, etiquette, and tools involved, as well as hands-on tea preparation.
• The ceremony takes place in a charming, intimate setting with a small group of up to 8 attendees, allowing for personalized attention.
• The English-speaking instructor has over 15 years of experience and guides participants through the cultural traditions of the tea ceremony.
• The café’s location in the Kiyomizu area, in front of the Park Hyatt Kyoto, adds to the authenticity and atmosphere of the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The tea ceremony at this historic café in Kyoto offers a unique cultural experience, with pricing starting from $30.00 per person for a 45-minute session.

Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

The café also provides a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing visitors to secure their spot without any upfront payment.

With a century-old legacy, this tea ceremony experience promises an immersive journey into the traditions of Japanese tea culture in an intimate setting limited to just 8 attendees.

Experience Details

Participants can look forward to an immersive learning experience during the tea ceremony. They’ll learn about the history, etiquette, and tools of the traditional tea ceremony, then partake in the ritual on tatami mats in specially designed tea rooms. The instructor will demonstrate the process, and you will have the chance to prepare tea themselves. Alongside the tea, they’ll savor traditional Kyoto sweets. A Q&A session is included to address any questions.

Learn About	Participate In	Enjoy
Tea Ceremony History	Traditional Tea Ceremony	Kyoto Sweets
Tea Ceremony Etiquette	On Tatami Mats	Q&A Session
Tea Ceremony Tools	In Tea Rooms
Tea Preparation	Hands-on Tea Preparation
Instructor Demonstration

Instructor and Accessibility

With over 15 years of experience, the English-speaking instructor leads the tea ceremony. They guide participants through the history, etiquette, and traditional tools used in the ritual.

The group size is limited to 8 for a more intimate experience, allowing ample time for questions and personalized attention. Accessibility is ensured as the venue is wheelchair-friendly, catering to guests with varying mobility needs.

The instructor’s expertise and the small group setting create a delightful and informative tea ceremony experience that immerses participants in the rich cultural traditions of Kyoto.

Meeting Point and Location

Where can one find the location for this historic tea ceremony experience?

The Grapevine Café Kyoto, nestled on Ichinenzaka Street in the Kiyomizu area, serves as the meeting point. Look for the vines at the top of the café – you may need to knock to enter this hidden gem.

The café is conveniently located in front of the Park Hyatt Kyoto, making it easily accessible.

With its charming atmosphere and rich history, the Grapevine Café provides the perfect setting for this traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews

What do customer reviews say about this historic tea ceremony experience?

Reviewers have generally given positive feedback, rating the experience 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.

Nikita from Germany praised the informative and private nature of the event.

Benjamin from Australia appreciated the friendly instructor and fun atmosphere.

Christoph from Austria enjoyed the knowledgeable host and pleasant experience.

The reviews suggest this tea ceremony offers an intimate, educational, and enjoyable way to take in Kyoto’s rich tea culture within the charming setting of a 120-year-old café.

History of the Café

The Grapevine Café Kyoto boasts a rich history, having been in operation for over 120 years.

Located in the heart of the historic Kiyomizu area, the café’s charming ambiance and traditional architecture have attracted visitors from near and far.

The café’s tea ceremony experience is held in specially designed tea rooms, where guests can enjoy the timeless traditions of Japanese tea culture.

With its reputation for excellence and its commitment to preserving Kyoto’s cultural heritage, the Grapevine Café Kyoto remains a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Japan’s storied past.

Traditional Tea Ceremony Explained

Although the tea ceremony may seem like a centuries-old ritual, it remains a vibrant and evolving tradition in Japan.

At the historic Grapevine Café, guests can enjoy this captivating experience. Under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor with over 15 years of expertise, participants learn about the ceremony’s history, etiquette, and tools.

They then actively take part, preparing and savoring the tea alongside traditional Kyoto sweets. The intimate group setting, limited to 8 people, allows for a personalized and interactive session, including a Q&A.

This unique opportunity offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Why Attend This Tea Ceremony Experience

Why would one choose to attend this tea ceremony experience at the historic Grapevine Café in Kyoto?

The 45-minute experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony. Participants can enjoy the serene atmosphere, watch a demonstration by an experienced instructor, and even prepare tea themselves.

The intimate group size of 8 ensures a more personalized experience. Plus, the café’s 120-year history and location in the Kiyomizu area add to the authenticity of the experience.

Savoring traditional Kyoto sweets alongside the tea further enhances the cultural exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Type of Tea During the Ceremony?

You can request a specific type of tea during the ceremony. The instructor is knowledgeable and happy to accommodate individual preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable tea experience for each participant.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is allowed during the tea ceremony. Participants are welcome to take photos, but are asked to be respectful and avoid disrupting the ceremony. Check with the instructor if you have any specific concerns about photography.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants in the Tea Ceremony?

The tea ceremony experience doesn’t have an age limit – it’s suitable for participants of all ages. Children are welcome to join, providing they can follow the etiquette and participate respectfully during the 45-minute session.

Can I Purchase the Tea or Sweets Served During the Experience?

Yes, participants can purchase the tea or traditional Kyoto sweets served during the tea ceremony experience. The café offers these items for purchase, allowing guests to continue enjoying the flavors after the event.

Do I Need to Wear Special Attire for the Tea Ceremony?

No, special attire is not required for the tea ceremony experience. Participants can wear casual, comfortable clothing. The focus is on the traditional tea ceremony and learning experience rather than formal dress.

The Sum Up

The Grapevine Café’s tea ceremony offers a unique opportunity to take in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. With over 120 years of history, this intimate setting provides personalized instruction on the traditions of Japanese tea, complemented by the charming atmosphere. It’s an unforgettable experience that allows participants to explore the customs and appreciate the authenticity of this time-honored practice.

You can check if your dates are available here: