Private Tour

Private Matcha Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Kyoto House

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Kyoto with a private matcha ceremony rooted in the Yabunouchi tradition. Held in a family home cared for over generations, this 90-minute experience invites you to connect with the harmony and mindfulness at the heart of Japanese tea culture.

Your journey begins in the machiai (waiting room), where you will learn the philosophy of the Yabunouchi school. You will then purify your hands and spirit at the tsukubai stone basin before entering the tea room through the nijiriguchi, a humble gesture central to the tradition.

Inside, observe a matcha preparation demonstration and enjoy freshly whisked tea with seasonal sweets. Spend a quiet moment in reflection and cultural conversation.

Afterward, explore our family’s traditional Japanese house, shaped by my grandfather’s refined aesthetic sensibilities. This intimate ritual, embodying the spirit of Ichigo-ichie, invites you to slow down and appreciate the subtle nuances of Japanese hospitality.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Explanation of tea ceremony philosophy and etiquette

Cultural conversation and Q&A with the host

Guided introduction to the tea room and traditional Japanese house

Seasonal Japanese sweets (wagashi)

One bowl of freshly whisked matcha per guest

Private tea ceremony in the Yabunouchi tradition

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation to and from the meeting point

Meals other than the provided seasonal sweets

What To Expect

During this 90-minute experience, you will: Begin in the machiai (waiting room), where you will learn about the philosophy and meaning behind the Yabunouchi school of tea. Purify your hands and spirit at the tsukubai stone basin. Enter the tea room through the nijiriguchi, expressing humility as you step inside. Observe a traditional demonstration of matcha preparation. Enjoy a bowl of freshly whisked matcha accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets. Spend a quiet moment in cultural conversation and personal reflection. Afterwards, take a guided walk through our family’s traditional Japanese house, shaped by my grandfather’s refined aesthetic sensibilities and attention to detail.

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