Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience日本の茶道体験

"A Moment to Embrace Japanese Tradition"
Welcome to the Tea Ceremony Experience Course!

All beginners are welcome! Experience the tea ceremony in Ninenzaka, Kyoto.

Whisk matcha and savor it in a tea bowl. Quiet your mind with Japan’s traditional tea ceremony.

Our experienced instructors will guide you step-by-step.

Reservation & Pricing

Tea Ceremony

Tea Ceremony Class Using Ryuurei and Chairs

Ryuurei-Style Tea Ceremony Experience

Enjoy the elegance of the tea ceremony
Join this tea ceremony experience and explore Japanese traditional culture.
This class is held on the second floor of a small machiya over 100 years old, located in the scenic preservation area of Ninenzaka.
The "Ryuurei-style" involves sitting on chairs, making it comfortable even for those who are not used to sitting in a traditional kneeling position (seiza).
This format was developed during the Meiji era for the Kyoto Expo.

Beginners are very welcome
Feel free to join in casual attire, whether in jeans or kimono—it’s up to you! No special preparations are required (don’t forget your socks).

Experience Details
Sessions are held according to your preferred schedule.
The experience includes an explanation of tea ceremony history and demonstrations of tea-making techniques.
Participants will also have the opportunity to prepare matcha themselves.
We welcome guests from around the world, offering support in Japanese, English, Chinese, Ukrainian, Russian and French.
(Please inquire about language support availability in advance.)

Various Participation Purposes
Participants join for various reasons, including corporate training, family activities during summer vacations, or as a pre-departure experience for students studying abroad.

Special Offers
Participants can purchase special matcha made with 100% Kyoto Uji tea leaves at a discounted price.
We also offer tea bowl sales.

How to Reserve
Reservations are available for individuals or groups.
Please book at least one day in advance.
For same-day reservations, contact us by phone.


1. Introduction and History

Learn about the history and cultural background of the tea ceremony.
We’ll explain how this Japanese traditional culture developed and has been passed down to the present day, as well as its deep connection to Japanese culture.

History and Cultural Background of the Tea Ceremony

2. Tools and Their Significance

Understand the usage and handling of tea utensils such as tea bowls, tea whisks, and tea scoops.
We’ll explain the roles and meanings of these tools in the tea ceremony and share maintenance tips for everyday use.

Explanation and Usage of Tea Tools

3. Tea Etiquette and Drinking

Learn the correct way to handle a tea bowl and the etiquette of drinking tea.
Through tea ceremony movements, gain an understanding of Japanese manners and the mindset they reflect.

Tea Etiquette and Drinking

4. Tea Ceremony Demonstration

Watch a demonstration by an instructor showcasing the graceful movements and seasonal hospitality of the tea ceremony.

Tea Ceremony Demonstration

5. Tea-Making Experience

Participants will whisk matcha themselves and savor the essence of the tea ceremony.
Immerse yourself in Japan’s traditional customs and enjoy a moment of peace and reflection.

Tea-Making Experience

6. Q&A and Reflection

Participants will have time to ask questions and reflect, deepening their understanding of the tea ceremony.

Q&A and Reflection

7. Understanding Japanese Culture

We aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for participants.
As the experience is beginner-friendly, we explain concepts and movements in an easy-to-understand way, avoiding complicated terms.

Tea Ceremony

Similarities between Tea Ceremony and Zen茶道と禅の共通点

Tea Ceremony and Zen

Tea ceremony and Zen may appear as different activities, but they both embody the core of Japanese spiritual culture: "harmony," "stillness," and "living in the present moment." The founder of the tea ceremony, Sen no Rikyū, was greatly influenced by Zen, and the fusion of tea ceremony and Zen occupies a particularly important place in Japanese culture.

1. Mental stillness and introspection
The tea gathering emphasizes quietness and tranquility in the tea room. By enjoying a cup of tea, people calm their minds and distance themselves from the bustle of daily life.
Zen meditation aims to calm the mind and engage in introspection. By eliminating distractions and focusing on the present moment, this is at the core of Zen practice.
Both tea ceremony and Zen emphasize "mindfulness" and the pursuit of inner peace.
2. Concentration on the “now”
The tea gathering is symbolized by the term "ichi-go ichi-e," highlighting the importance of the encounter and experience in this moment.
Zen emphasizes concepts such as "shikantaza" (just sitting) or "mushin" (no mind), allowing one to experience being present.
Both traditions focus not on the past or future but on the “now” mentality.
3. Simplicity and aesthetic sense
The utensils and tea room in the tea ceremony are simple and unadorned, embodying the aesthetic sense of "wabi-sabi."
Zen temples and gardens also feature simple designs, emphasizing harmony with nature.
The practice involves stripping away the unnecessary to seek the essential beauty.
4. Form and discipline
The rules and procedures of the tea ceremony are strictly defined, and behind these lies deep spiritual meaning. Through these rituals, people hone their minds.
In Zen, through meditation and daily practice, discipline is used to train oneself.
Both traditions aim to elevate the spirit through discipline and practice.
5. Harmony with nature
The construction of tea rooms and garden landscapes reflects a sense of unity with nature.
Zen gardens symbolize nature using stones, moss, and sand, displaying harmony with the natural world.
Both traditions honor nature and find peace and wisdom in it.
6. Non-verbal communication
In the tea gathering, actions, timing, and the atmosphere are more important than words.
Through Zen dialogues or silent practice, communication beyond words is emphasized.
A deep, wordless connection is highly valued.

Rates and Booking

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