Private Tour
Private Tokyo Tea & Kimono: Use a National Treasure's Kettle
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
"Little Kyoto" Near Shinjuku
Escape the crowds at MAPLE CAFÉ-KAEDE-, a private sanctuary next to the 1,000-year-old Omiya Hachiman Shrine forest. Just 10 mins by train from Shinjuku or Shibuya.
Unique Highlight: The "Two Bowls" Tasting
Experience a discovery of flavor using the same water:
Heritage Kettle: Observe a masterpiece crafted by a Japanese Living National Treasure up close.
The Experience: Taste two bowls of Matcha prepared using the water from this specific kettle.
The Comparison: Compare one bowl whisked by the Master and one by you. See how the "hand" changes the taste.
Artisan Style: Enjoy delicious sweets in seasonal artisan bowls.
Privacy & Quality
High-Quality Kimono: Professional styling for your ceremony and a stroll through the ancient shrine forest.
100% Private: We host only your group for an intimate, high-quality experience.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Waist/hip size up to 110cm (43 inches) is required for kimono fitting.
What To Expect
Experience an exclusive, private cultural session near the sacred Omiya Hachiman Shrine. Premium Kimono Dressing Choose from our curated collection of high-quality kimono. Our experts provide professional dressing, ensuring an elegant, authentic look for your session and stroll. The "Two Bowls" Tasting — Our Unique Highlight We use the "Ryurei" style (seated on chairs), so you can relax without sitting on the floor. Discover how the "hand" changes the flavor of tea in this rare comparison: National Treasure: Observe a tea kettle crafted by a Japanese Living National Treasure at close range. The Comparison: Use water from this masterpiece to compare two bowls of Matcha: one made by the Master and one whisked by yourself. The Magic: Taste the surprising difference in flavor and texture between the two bowls. Artisan Style: Enjoy delicious Japanese sweets served in beautiful artisan tea bowls. Sacred Forest Stroll After the ceremony, we share stories and etiquette of the 1,000-year-old shrine. You will then enjoy a private, self-guided stroll in your kimono at your own pace. Total privacy for your group(Up to 4 guests). No crowds. Just authentic Japanese tradition.
What‘s Included
Delicious Japanese traditional sweets (Wagashi) carefully selected for the season
Experience tea made with water boiled in a kettle crafted by a Living National Treasure
Authentic Kimono rental and professional dressing
Private tea ceremony session for your group only
Two types of premium Matcha including tasting and comparison
Transportation to and from the meeting point
Additional food and drinks at the cafe
Personal guide during the shrine visit
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
Private Tokyo Tea & Kimono: Use a National Treasure's Kettle
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great shrine visit without crowds and an amazing Tea Ceremony
honestyhappiness,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was a wonderful experience for the family. The local shrine is well worth the private tour and our host was most welcoming and informative. The green tea and matcha ceremony was delightful and my kids absolutely loved the ice-cream! The home made souvenirs were gorgeous and made great gifts for the family at home. Thank you for a relaxing family day out!!!!!
Amazing!!! 10/10🌟
lel982,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The experience was absolutely amazing!!! We felt welcomed from the very first second, and you could really tell how much care and effort they put into everything. The kimonos they provided were absolutely stunning, and we even had our hair styled, which made the whole experience feel extra special. The tea ceremony itself was beautiful and calming, and the shrine walk added such a peaceful and authentic touch to the day. Everything felt thoughtfully planned and full of warmth. They were both incredibly kind and made us feel comfortable the entire time — such lovely people! This is definitely an experience I would recommend to anyone looking for something unique and memorable. Thank you so much for this wonderful day 💕
Hidden Gem Tea Ceremony Experience
Kietari,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Here’s the updated version with your addition: --- This is a hidden gem for an English-friendly tea ceremony. The atmosphere is calm, peaceful, and very beautiful. It was my first time wearing a kimono, and the expert guided me so well, making the experience easy and enjoyable. The owner is very warm and kind, and explained everything clearly with great attention to detail. Overall, it was a lovely experience and I highly recommend it! ✨
Unique
carawH5040OP,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00During our trip to Japan we had the opportunity to attend a traditional tea ceremony and try on a kimono and I can honestly say: It was an unforgettable experience. From the beginning we felt incredibly well looked after. Everything was explained to us with so much peace, warmth and detail that we really felt that we were allowed to dive deep into Japanese culture, not only superficially, but really consciously. The tea ceremony itself was very special. So mindful, so aesthetic and full of meaning. And also the kimono fitting was just beautiful. You can see how much tradition and respect is behind everything. I am really grateful that we had the opportunity to have this experience. It wasn't just an activity, it was a moment I won't forget anytime soon. I can only recommend it to anyone who not only wants to see Japan, but really wants to feel it.
Don’t miss this experience!
jamiesJ1274MA,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very cute cafe with amazingly kind hosts. Love the experience and was a nice change of pace from the rest of Tokyo. Can’t wait to come back and visit again. Love the Canadian influences.
Outstanding cultural kimono experience
bgg bgg,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00O ur family of four had an unforgettable morning at Maple Café enjoying their kimono dressing and traditional tea ceremony experience. From the moment we arrived, Kanako and Sayo made us feel completely welcomed. They have a tremendous amount of experience, and you can tell how proud and excited they are to share their culture, traditions, and knowledge. Getting dressed in beautiful kimonos was such a special moment for all of us, and we took tons of photos — the kind you know will stay in the family album forever. The tea ceremony itself felt intimate and personal, especially compared to similar experiences I’ve seen in Asakusa or Kyoto. It never felt rushed or commercial; instead, it felt like being invited into a cherished tradition. One of the unexpected highlights was discovering the incredible 1,000‑year‑old shrine just steps away. The grounds are stunning, with historic buildings, peaceful gardens, and a bamboo grove that stays beautiful year‑round. It made the whole experience feel even more magical. Maple Café is a true gem, and Kanako and Sayo make it something really special. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an authentic, heartfelt cultural experience in Tokyo.
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