The Japanese tea ceremony is steeped in history and tradition, serving as one of the best manifestations of Japan's rich culture. During this 2.5-hour Kyoto Tea Ceremony with a tea master we will learn about both the intricacies of the ceremony and the role that tea plays in Japanese culture. We'll also taste some excellent tea along with wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets meant to enhance the flavor of the tea, deepening our appreciation for both the nuanced flavors and rich traditions of tea in Japan

What really differentiates a Japanese tea ceremony from the way tea is served in the West, such as the UK, is the degree of precision with which each aspect of the ceremony is undertaken. During this two-and-a-half hour workshop in a 100-year-old house, under the guidance of a tea master who has been in Japan for 30 years, we'll learn about the Way of Tea and the proper etiquette involved in partaking of traditional tea and sweets.

The tea workshop takes place in two parts. We begin with a brief lecture from our tea master before moving downstairs to his tranquil tea garden, where the lesson continues. This lush setting provides the perfect ambiance for learning the differences between formal and informal tea gatherings, how what’s served changes seasonally, and about the different types of tea. We’ll then be served a wagashi and learn more about their significance, as well as prepare our own bowl of tea.

Although traditional Japanese tea ceremonies can be quite formal, our instructor’s philosophy is that tea should be fun! We’ll leave this tea workshop with an in-depth understanding of what makes this such an essential piece of Japanese culture. To learn more about Japanese cuisine, try our popular Kyoto Food Tour, or to explore Japan's traditions through a different lens, see our Kyoto Temple Tour.