Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Experience

Top rated
4.8692307 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.8692307 out of 5 stars
390 reviews
Activity provider:Camellia Tea Ceremony
Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Experience
Top rated
4.8692307 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.8692307 out of 5 stars
390 reviews

Step inside a traditional machiya to explore the refined world of matcha. Enjoy seasonal sweets, experience the charm of an authentic tea ceremony, and discover the art of preparing matcha.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 45 minutes
Check availability to see starting times
Instructor
English
Private or small groups available

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

P
Paige – New Zealand

Amazing to learn about the culture and history of learning how to become a tea master, thoroughly enjoyed. Very calming ceremony with delicious matcha

L
Laoise – Ireland

Loved the tea ceremony. Every step was explained so well. it was such a peaceful tranquil activity and a nice break from the business of Kyoto. I would recommend anyone to do the tea ceremony. Next door you can rent a Kimono and the staff there are so lovely. they really made your experience feel personable. I'd like to mention Nel too, she offered to take photos of me in my Kimono as I was on my own for a while. She was very kind and helpful. thank you everyone!

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Enjoy the flavor sensation of locally produced sweets and matcha grown in Kyoto
  • Master the basics of making the perfect bowl of matcha with help from your host
  • Immerse yourself in the world of matcha in a traditional Kyoto tearoom
  • Gain a deeper understanding of Kyoto's culture through a tea ceremony
  • Discover the intricate aspects of the tea ceremony, from utensils to room layout

Full description

Take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and discover the beauty of this centuries-old ritual. Learn from your host about the intricacies that make the tea ceremony a unique and special event. Before you go, try your own hand at making a bowl of frothy matcha with guidance from your host.


Begin your experience at a traditional machiya in Kyoto's Higashiyama district. As you settle in, the host and instructor for the ceremony will provide a brief introduction to the world of matcha. Hear about the utensils used, the steps of the ceremony, and the importance of the room's decoration.


Next, watch as the tea ceremony begins and nibble on a seasonal sweet with your tea while you chat with the host. Feel free to ask questions about the three schools of tea ceremony or other things about Japanese culture. Then, try frothing up your own bowl of matcha with the host's help.

Includes

  • Matcha
  • Traditional seasonal sweets
  • Tea-making utensils
  • Personal instructor/host
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Meals
  • Kimono rentals

Meeting point

We are located down an alley that branches from the main thoroughfare of Ninenzaka in Higashiyama. The simplest way to find us is to head to the Park Hyatt hotel. Opposite the hotel is a Studio Ghibli store. The alleyway is located just to the left of the store. Flower Teahouse is a short walk from the famous sites of Kiyomizu-dera, Kodai-ji, Yasaka-jinja, Maruyama Park, Chion-in, and Gion. The city centre is easily accessible, with buses running along Higashi Oji, a major road 10 minutes from the teahouse. For those who don't mind walking, the city centre can be reached in about 25 minutes, through the geisha district of Gion.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

Not allowed

  • Video recording

Know before you go

  • Chairs and tables are available for guests who find it difficult to sit on the floor
  • Non-flash, still photography is permitted during the workshop.
  • The tearooms are located upstairs. For those with mobility impairments, the Garden Teahouse is wheelchair accessible.
  • If you plan to come with an interpreter, please book a private tea ceremony (so as not to disrupt other guests).
  • Accompanying tour guides may wait in the waiting room where Wifi and refreshments are available.
  • Restroom facilities are available.
  • If you are traveling with a baby or infant under 3 years old we ask that you book a private tea ceremony at our Garden Teahouse. We do apologise for the inconvenience.

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 390 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5

Customer photos

+26
Filter
By star rating
Sort by:
P
Paige – New ZealandJune 13, 2025 – Verified booking
Amazing to learn about the culture and history of learning how to become a tea master, thoroughly enjoyed. Very calming ceremony with delicious matcha
L
Laoise – IrelandMay 12, 2025 – Verified booking
Loved the tea ceremony. Every step was explained so well. it was such a peaceful tranquil activity and a nice break from the business of Kyoto. I would recommend anyone to do the tea ceremony. Next door you can rent a Kimono and the staff there are so lovely. they really made your experience feel personable. I'd like to mention Nel too, she offered to take photos of me in my Kimono as I was on my own for a while. She was very kind and helpful. thank you everyone!
M
Michele – CanadaMarch 20, 2025 – Verified booking
It was very interesting to learn of the history of the yea ceremony and watch how precise the movements are.

Product ID: 441136

Activity provider:Camellia Tea Ceremony

Top Attractions in Kyoto

Experiences in Kyoto

Tours in Japan

Things to do in Japan

Top destinations

Top attraction categories

Popular Attractions