Kyoto Tea Ceremony and Kaiseki Dinner Experience

Kyoto, Japan
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 6 travelers

Overview

Unlike a standard tea ceremony, this experience is inspired by the traditional Yobanashi Chaji, an intimate evening tea gathering that combines a meal, cultural conversation, and matcha tea in a historic Kyoto machiya. Guests enjoy a beautifully presented Shokado Bento dinner while learning about Japanese hospitality, seasonal traditions, and tea culture. The experience continues with traditional sweets, a live matcha tea preparation, and guidance on tea ceremony etiquette. Through food, tea, and storytelling, participants gain a deeper understanding of the philosophy of Ichigo Ichie and the spirit of Japanese hospitality in an authentic setting rarely experienced by visitors.

What's included

  • Photo opportunity with the host
  • Cultural storytelling and Q&A session
  • Sake
  • Shokado Bento kaiseki-style dinner
  • Tea ceremony demonstration by the host
  • Traditional Kyoto evening tea gathering experience
  • Traditional Japanese sweets
  • Tea bowl selection experience
  • English guidance throughout the experience
  • Introduction to Japanese tea culture and etiquette
  • Freshly prepared matcha tea
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation to and from the venue
  • Additional food and drinks not specified
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance

What to expect

Step into the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese evening tea gathering in a historic Kyoto machiya. Inspired by the classical Yobanashi Chaji, this experience combines a kaiseki-style Shokado Bento meal with an authentic tea ceremony in an intimate setting. Guests are introduced to the philosophy and customs of Japanese tea culture while enjoying seasonal cuisine and learning traditional dining etiquette. Throughout the evening, the host shares stories about tea, hospitality, and the concept of Ichigo Ichie, the belief that every encounter is unique and should be treasured. Guests then enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and observe a matcha tea preparation, learning the meaning behind the utensils, rituals, and movements of the tea ceremony. Finally, participants are guided through the proper way to receive and drink matcha, gaining a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture, aesthetics, and hospitality in the heart of Kyoto.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet at Kangetsu, located in Kyoto's historic Ninenzaka district. After passing Starbucks Ninenzaka, turn left into the narrow private lane. Follow the path to our traditional Kyoto machiya. Please arrive 5 minutes before the experience begins.

End point

Please meet at Kangetsu, located in Kyoto's historic Ninenzaka district. After passing Starbucks Ninenzaka, turn left into the narrow private lane. Follow the path to our traditional Kyoto machiya. Please arrive 5 minutes before the experience begins.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
22,000.00 JPY per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Kyoto
From
22,000.00 JPY per person
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