Step into a traditional Kyoto townhouse, over 120 years old, nestled in the historic Ninenzaka area, just a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japanese tea and the art of the tea ceremony in an intimate setting, with a maximum of 6 participants.
Begin your experience with an introduction to the history of Japanese tea and the tea ceremony, learning about the role of matcha in Japanese culture. Discover the basics of tea ceremony etiquette, including how to bow, hold, and turn the tea bowl, and the concept of “omotenashi” (hospitality) that underpins the ceremony.
Next, taste a variety of teas, including matcha, hojicha, and genmaicha, all made from the same tea plant. Learn how different cultivation and processing methods affect the colour, aroma, and flavour of the tea.
Watch as your host demonstrates how to prepare matcha using traditional tea ceremony tools, explaining the names and uses of each tool and the meaning behind the movements. Then, try your hand at making your own matcha, guided by your host. Enjoy your freshly made matcha with seasonal Japanese sweets.
Conclude your experience with time for questions and photos, leaving with a deeper understanding of Japanese tea culture.
