Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

Duration1h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 25 travelers

Overview

Step into a traditional Kyoto machiya and experience ryurei, a formal Japanese tea ceremony performed in a graceful seated style. Discover the customs and etiquette that shape each stage of the ceremony, from the careful preparation of matcha to the thoughtful gestures that reflect Japan’s culture of hospitality. As you observe and take part in this time-honored tradition, gain a deeper understanding of the four core ideals of tea: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. More than simply enjoying a bowl of matcha, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty, mindfulness, and connection in everyday moments.

What's included

Group photo
Randy Sensei's original Kyoto grown matcha
Tea ceremony with a tea master
Make your own bowl of matcha
Traditional sweets from Kyoto's famous sweet makers

Transportation
Kimono rental

What to expect

Kyoto Sanjo Shopping Street
1h 30m

Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and the origin of many of the country's cultural practices. One of these is the art of tea, or chanoyu. Visit a beautifully renovated old-style Kyoto house, transformed into a Japanese teahouse and gallery with a unique Taisho Roman-meets-Art Deco design.

Originally from Canada, your host, Randy Channell Soei, is a professor of the Urasenke school of tea ceremony, he holds the highest rank of any non-Japanese tea ceremony teacher in Japan. He will introduce you to ryurei, a formal style of tea ceremony dating back to the 1870s. Randy also spent years working with local Kyoto farmers to develop his own original matcha, which you’ll have the opportunity to taste. Through the ceremony and hands-on guidance, discover traditional tea etiquette, hospitality, and the four ideals of tea: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please come directly to the shop. It's located inside a Sanjo Shipping Arcade, just a 5 mins walk from the Horikawa Sanjo bus stop.

You will receive a Google Maps link in your message or confirmation email after your booking is confirmed. Please make sure to check and confirm the meeting location.

End point

Please come directly to the shop. It's located inside a Sanjo Shipping Arcade, just a 5 mins walk from the Horikawa Sanjo bus stop.

You will receive a Google Maps link in your message or confirmation email after your booking is confirmed. Please make sure to check and confirm the meeting location.

Additional information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please arrive on time as the experience begins promptly.
Kindly note that you are not seated on the Tatami mats or low tables.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.2 (5)