Imagine slipping into a beautiful kimono, learning about the ancient art of Chado (Way of Tea), and savoring the delicate flavors of matcha green tea and wagashi sweets. This is what awaits you on a traditional Japanese tea ceremony tour in Kyoto!
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in this ancient tradition. While tea ceremonies originated in China, they have become an essential part of Japanese culture.
Kyoto’s enchanting charm and rich history transport you back in time, making it a truly magical setting for this experience.
Dress Up in a Kimono and Immerse Yourself in the Ceremony
One of the highlights of the Maikoya Kyoto Tea Ceremony Tour is the opportunity to dress in a beautiful kimono.
After checking in, you’ll cross the street to a cozy dressing room. The women there will help you select a stunning kimono from a wide array of colors and patterns.
Don’t worry about your hair, they’ll take care of that too! The gentle and attentive staff will make you feel like royalty as they skillfully dress you in your chosen kimono.
You’ll be surrounded by kindness and warmth, even as they guide you through the intricate process of getting dressed.
You might even want to try a few Japanese phrases! While they’re accustomed to foreigners, they’ll appreciate your effort to communicate.
Unfortunately, no photos or videos are permitted inside the dressing room—it’s like a secret world behind the scenes at Maikoya!
It’s important to arrive 15-20 minutes early to ensure you have plenty of time to get dressed and ready for pictures.
Unveiling the Symbolism and Principles of Chado
The essence of the Japanese tea ceremony lies in its rich symbolism and core principles. The Maikoya tea ceremony condenses this centuries-old tradition into a concise and engaging 30 to 45-minute experience.
During the ceremony, you’ll learn about the tools used, often handcrafted from bamboo or wood, each selected for its unique craftsmanship.
But the real magic lies in understanding the four principles of Chado, or “The Way of Tea.”
The most important principle, ichi-go-ichi-e, teaches us to honor and respect the present moment. Every tea ceremony is a unique and fleeting experience, and appreciating that makes the moment truly special.
These principles are deeply rooted in Zen Buddhism philosophy, embodying mindfulness, well-being, harmony, and the fundamental values of the tea ceremony.
Witnessing the Ritual of Tea Preparation
The next stage is a captivating display of ceremonial tea preparation.
The tea master will meticulously cleanse and purify the tools before boiling the water. You’ll witness the ritualistic steps, even though modern conveniences, like an electric kettle, are used to ensure the ceremony runs smoothly.
You’ll be seated on a tatami mat, where a bowl of matcha powder and a side dish of two types of wagashi sweets—higashi and omogashi—await you.
Higashi, a dry sweet made of pure sugar, is molded into different shapes depending on the season, like cherry blossoms in spring or maple leaves in autumn.
Omogashi, the other sweet, adds another layer of deliciousness.
The sweets are savored before the tea, which is whisked into a creamy foam by the tea master after the hot water is poured.
Don’t worry about etiquette, the tea master will guide you through every step, including the traditional bowing to the tea master and rotating your matcha cup 90 degrees before taking your first sip.
Capture Memories in the Picturesque Gardens
After the tea ceremony, you’ll be escorted to the serene gardens for a photo opportunity.
With everyone dressed in beautiful kimonos, the garden becomes a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable photos.
Maikoya provides props, such as small Japanese fans, to enhance the ambiance of your photos.
Don’t forget to admire the traditional machiya (townhouse) built with authentic Japanese materials.
Experience More Than Just Tea Ceremonies
Maikoya offers more than just tea ceremonies. You can also delve into the life of a samurai with their samurai tour!
If you’re looking for a truly immersive tea experience, head to Uji, the capital of matcha.
Uji offers a less crowded and more authentic experience than Kyoto.
Check out places like Fukujuen Uji Tea Workshop, where you can grind Uji green tea, make your own matcha, and learn about the etiquette of the tea ceremony.
Is a Kyoto Tea Ceremony Worth It?
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a curious traveler, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto is a truly enriching experience.
While Maikoya’s tour provides a great overview of the ceremony, it’s condensed and rushed. However, it offers a fascinating insight into the principles and culture behind this revered Japanese tradition.
If you have limited time, don’t fret! You can still experience the magic of the tea ceremony elsewhere in Japan.
But if you’re keen to have this experience in Kyoto, book in advance because Maikoya’s tours are highly sought-after and sell out quickly.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Japanese tea ceremony.
