The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as sado, chado, or chanoyu, is a centuries-old tradition of preparing and serving powdered matcha green tea, stemming from the practice of Buddhism in China. This is a ritualistic way of making matcha, a type of powdered tea unique to Japan, which is made from dried tea leaves and produces a bright green color. This is a rare treat for visitors who want to experience the true culture and essence of Japan! The Japanese tea ceremony, much like any traditional rituals in the country is composed of a number of steps and preparation, as well as manners and etiquette, although modern practices aren’t as strict in this aspect. The tea ceremony is a centuries-old practice that is highly influenced by traditional Japanese practices and has influenced modern society in return. The experience of the tea ceremony differs according to the level of the participant. For example, a more experienced guest would bring paper fans to the ritual and have the endurance to sit on their knees the whole time. The tea ceremony, however, did not originate in Japan and is not uniquely Japanese. This practice is shared with China as “art of the tea” and Korea as “etiquette for tea” or “tea rite”. All three variations are connected together by Zen Buddhism and the spiritual process of the preparation and presentation of the tea. But what sets apart the Japanese tea ceremony from its cultural siblings? Sado, Chanoyu, or Ocha has been refined by Sen no Rikyu, who is considered as the father of the Japanese tea ceremony. Besides being an aesthetic art form and performance, the chanoyu is widely practiced using matcha, a type of powdered tea that produces a bright green beverage.
Highlights
Experience the award-winning tea ceremonies
Wear an authentic kimono in Maikoya's beautiful Japanese gardens for stunning photos.
Take photos in the tea room and garden, capturing the essence of this unique cultural experience!
Sampling traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which will vary in flavors, shapes, and colors according to the season.
Duration
1.5 hours
Offered in
English
What is included
Kimono costume
Green tea and water
Utensils
English Speaking tea master
Hairdo for ladies (simple style)
Japanese style backdrops
Explanations about the steps, meanings, zen philosophy and the subtle traditions related to tea ceremony
Japanese sweets
Kimono rental
What is not included
Transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
KIMONO TEA CEREMONY KYOTO MAIKOYA at NISHIKI
329 Ebiyacho, Gokomachi-dori Sanjo sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Start time
9:00 am
End point
KIMONO TEA CEREMONY KYOTO MAIKOYA at NISHIKI
329 Ebiyacho, Gokomachi-dori Sanjo sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Experience the award-winning tea ceremonies
Wear an authentic kimono in Maikoya's beautiful Japanese gardens for stunning photos.
Take photos in the tea room and garden, capturing the essence of this unique cultural experience!
Sampling traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which will vary in flavors, shapes, and colors according to the season.
How is the tea ceremony performed at Maikoya?
The tea ceremony begins by being welcomed into the tea room by the host, also called the "teishu", where the tools and utensils are laid out ready to be used for the ritual. While everyone is expected to sit on the tatami mats arranged on the floor, wooden chairs are provided for those who choose not to. Comfort is prioritized at Maikoya, so you are welcome to sit however you like! The matcha is typically prepared in a quiet and calm environment, but guests are encouraged to ask questions and learn more about the ritual. If there are none, the host will explain the process from time to time, providing introductions and demonstrations so you can familiarize yourself with the tools and steps during the ceremony. Tea ceremony tools and utensils are taken great care of, with the host wiping them gently with a silk cloth to make sure they are clean. Some of the items used in the ancient tradition are important artifacts that have been used for generations. After preparing the items, the host will carefully measure the matcha powder and hot water, demonstrating the step before teaching you the mesmerizing process of whipping the matcha until it creates a thick foam. After the tea is prepared, you will get to taste the matcha and the product of your hard work!
Experience our award-winning tea ceremonies, where enjoyment meets education!
Guided by our expert tea master, you'll not only observe the intricate process but also learn the rich history, tools, and etiquette of the tea ceremony. Immerse yourself in this cultural ritual as you create your own perfect cup of matcha using premium matcha powder. It's a delightful journey into the heart of Kyoto's tea culture!
Select from beautiful kimonos, with our staff ensuring you look your best. Ladies can also enjoy hairstyling to match their traditional look!
Wear an authentic kimono in Maikoya's beautiful Japanese gardens for stunning photos. After your tea ceremony, you can stroll through the historic Gion District in your kimono!
The historical scenic townhouse
Our tea ceremonies take place in a historic machiya, a registered Tangible Cultural Property in central Kyoto, just minutes from Gion-Shijo station and attractions like Nishiki Market, Kawaramachi, and Kiyomizu Temple. Everyone is welcome to take photos in the tea room and garden, capturing the essence of this unique cultural experience!
The foundations of Zen philosophy
Our staff is fluent in English and ready to answer your questions during the tea ceremony. They'll also share insights on the Zen philosophy that influences the ceremony: Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku—harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Sampling traditional Japanese sweets
You will also be sampling traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which will vary in flavors, shapes, and colors according to the season. Each experience at Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya is unique just by the snacks served at each session, not just by the personalization for each guest.
Children under 7 are not allowed.
This tour Lasts approximately 90 - 120 minutes. Your appointment begins with kimono dressing. The tea ceremony starts about 30 minutes later, once everyone is dressed. Late arrivals may need to wait until after the ceremony to wear the kimono.
We kindly request that you contact us in advance regarding the participation of special needs.
The Japanese tea ceremony is preparing, serving, and drinking tea in a ritualistic and ceremonial way.
We can provide a seat for you so you can be comfortable! Our events are also wheelchair accessible and we provide assistance to give you a great experience.
Our wagashi are gluten-free and nut-free treats made with rice flour and sweet red bean paste. These are also halal and kosher!
The host will be guiding you through the ritual and instruct you on what to do.
The tea ceremony is traditionally performed while wearing a kimono. But depending on the type of package you have chosen, you can wear your casual clothes, or any of the kimonos you will pick. The staff will help you put it on and ladies' hair will be styled to suit it.
This particular package can last up to 90 minutes, but others can reach up to 4 hours. You can read more about it on our site!
In the past, it used to only be practiced by elite zen monks, noble warlords, and the aristocracy. Today, anyone who is interested can observe the tea ceremony and participate as guests during events or at specialized establishments like the Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya.
Tea ceremonies are usually held in tea houses, tea rooms, and Japanese tea gardens.
Before the tea ceremony, guests are given the choice to choose from the kimonos for the ceremony, and ladies are given appropriate hairstyles that match the designs of their kimono. The host or tea master will then prepare the ingredients and tools and begin making the matcha while explaining the process.
The Japanese tea ceremony originated in China, brought into Japan by Buddhist monks. Sen no Rikyu was considered the father of the tea ceremony, practicing the precursor to the present-day tea ceremony.
The tea ceremony embodies the culture and sophistication of Japanese tradition, showing clearly the multiple steps it takes to make a single cup of tea. This practice was widely observed among the elite in old Japanese societies and aristocracy.
Other start times available 9:30 /10:00/10:30/11:00/11:30 every 30 minutes and the last session is from 17:00 PM
MAIKOYA
