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Product #145482
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A tea master in a light green kimono kneels on tatami mats, demonstrating an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in a traditional Tokyo tea room, surrounded by elegant utensils and a floor-set kettle.
Two foreign visitors kneel on tatami mats with cushions, holding tea bowls and attentively participating in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience in Tokyo.
Close-up of hands meticulously whisking vibrant green matcha in a dark ceramic chawan with a bamboo chasen, demonstrating precise preparation in a Tokyo tea ceremony.
A group photo in a traditional Tokyo tea room, showing two guests kneeling on tatami mats alongside two Japanese hosts in kimonos, sharing an authentic tea ceremony experience.
Close-up of a hand using a bamboo ladle to meticulously scoop steaming hot water from a traditional iron kettle, embedded in the tatami floor during a Tokyo tea ceremony.

The authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience at the traditional tea room in Tokyo

Japan-Kanto , Tokyo
Booking confirmed within 3 working day(s)
Duration:2 hour(s)
Guided language: English
Free cancellation 5 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • The authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience at the traditional tea room in the heart of Tokyo!
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Cultural Experiences

LocationIndoor
Minimum participant requirement2 travelers, 3 travelers, 4 travelers
Cultural experience typeJapanese tea ceremony

Product Info

The opportunity to experience tea ceremony in English with a tea practitioner with her experiences abroad
Not only the tea ceremony activity itself, but also the room setting is authentic. This is a rare find in Tokyo.
The tearoom applied the traditional construction methods and is made of wooden materials that are specifically designed for this particular room. You will have an opportunity to discover this authenticity while learning the tea ceremony in a calm atmosphere.
The activity includes:

The presentation of the history of tea ceremony
The presentation and demonstration of the tea-making procedure called "temae"
The instruction of how to drink matcha green tea (both thin tea and thick tea) and how to have a close look at the utensils of tea ceremony.
※Thick tea "koicha" is served usually only at a formal tea ceremony, therefore you will have a precious experience.
Participants will have a chance to make some matcha.
Souvenirs included - Traditional Japanese items made of washi "和紙".

Tea practitioner Ms. Haruki- from Oita, Japan has been practicing the tea ceremony since her high school days. She has learned the international tea ceremony in Tokyo and has presented the tea-making procedure in The US and in New Zealand. As National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter herself, she is actively working on the presentation of Japanese culture especially through tea ceremony.
Thick tea "koicha" - you can experience this authenticity only here in Kugayama
There are two kinds of tea that you can expect for the tea ceremony；thick tea “koicha”and thin tea “usucha”.
Tea especially koicha is served in rather formal settings, but what lies beneath the formalities is the heart of care, appreciation and respect for each other.
In contrast, usucha is served in an informal, friendly setting, so people enjoy usucha while relaxing each other.
Thus, it is rare to find the opportunity that allows you to experience koicha to get an idea of the difference between two kinds of tea - not only the flavor but also the way to enjoy them.
Chaki is a container for powdered green tea. Different types of containers are used for thick and thin tea.
For thick tea called "koicha", we use a ceramic container called a "chaire", which is kept in a bag called a "oshifuku". Oshifuku is made of beautiful traditional fabrics. For thin tea called "usucha", we use a lacquered ware and comes in a variety of shapes. Most common shape is called "natsume".
The tea room
You can see:

The ceiling is an exceptional architectural design of bamboo woven into various methods.
The nijiriguchi (doorway) is a traditional Japanese teahouse architectural technique.
The furnace is used in different ways depending on the season.

What You Can Expect

Duration: 2 hour(s)

1 Day

  • 09:50
    Meeting up at Kugayama Station/Keio-Inokashira line （久我山駅/京王井の頭線）
  • 10:00
    The tea ceremony activity starts
    A traditional Tokyo tea room interior, featuring a bamboo lattice window on the left and a calligraphic scroll on the right, embodying minimalist and serene Japanese aesthetics, perfect for an authentic tea ceremony.
  • You will witness the tea-making procedure called "temae" and taste matcha green tea (both thin tea and thick tea).
    A split image: the left shows a tranquil window view within a traditional Tokyo tea room, while the right depicts hands gently holding a ceramic bowl of freshly prepared matcha, embodying the serene tea ceremony experience.

Purchase Notice

If other groups are going to experience the tour together, they may stop at Kugayama Station on the way.
◆This program may be conducted jointly by multiple groups.(min.2 and max. 4 participants in total)
◆ If you need special consideration due to religious reasons, physical or other conditions (disease, allergy, etc.), children, age, etc., be sure to fill in the remarks on the reservation form at the time of application. please. Please note that arrangements cannot be guaranteed for programs purchased without prior inquiry.
◆The language supported by this program is English.
※The same charge applies to participants over the age of ten.

Includes/Excludes

  • Souvenir (Japanese traditional items)
  • Experience of making tea by yourself
  • Explanation of tea ceremony, its history and connection to Zen, the tea room (a tour included) and how to appreciate precious tea utensils
  • Matcha green tea and sweets
  • Tea ceremony performance with a tea practitioner

Eligible Users

Notes

  • Children aged 10 and older can participate in this activity when they join with adult participant(s). The same price applies to children

Reminders

  • ◆Be sure to follow the guide's instructions during the program. We do not take any responsibility for accidents etc. caused by not following the instructions of the guide.

  • ◆As a countermeasure against the new coronavirus infection, we ask that you disinfect with alcohol, measure your temperature, and wear a mask where necessary. Thank you for your cooperation.

How to Redeem Your Voucher

How to Use Your Voucher

  • Please present the e-voucher on-site

Meeting Point

Location Name: Kugayama Station (Kugayama 3-35, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 168-0082)

Address: 〒168-0082 東京都杉並区久我山３丁目３５
How to Get There
Tickets Gate at Kugayama Station

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 5 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • For cancellations made 1 to 4 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

FAQ

1. What is the typical sequence of events during an authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience?

A traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as Chadō, typically begins with guests entering the tea room and appreciating the decor. The host then purifies the utensils, whisks the matcha, and serves it with seasonal sweets. Guests observe the host's precise movements, receive their tea bowl, and drink the matcha. The ceremony concludes with the host cleaning the utensils and bowing to the guests, emphasizing mindfulness and respect throughout.

2. How long does a traditional Japanese tea ceremony experience usually last?

The duration of a Japanese tea ceremony can vary significantly depending on its formality. A simplified, introductory experience, often offered to visitors, may last about 30 to 60 minutes. A more formal, complete ceremony (chaji) with a meal can extend for several hours. For a typical immersive experience in Tokyo, planning for around 45 to 90 minutes is usually sufficient to fully appreciate the ritual.

3. What are the fundamental principles and spiritual meanings embedded in a Japanese tea ceremony?

The Japanese tea ceremony embodies four fundamental principles, often called 'Wa Kei Sei Jaku': harmony (Wa), respect (Kei), purity (Sei), and tranquility (Jaku). These principles guide every aspect of the ceremony, from the host's preparations to the guest's appreciation. It represents a spiritual practice fostering mindfulness, aesthetic appreciation, and a deep connection between individuals and nature.

4. What essential etiquette should guests be aware of when attending a Japanese tea ceremony?

Guests should observe several key etiquette points. Upon entering, remove shoes and place them neatly. Bow to the host and other guests. Avoid stepping on the threshold of the tea room. When receiving the tea bowl, rotate it slightly before drinking. Appreciate the tea tools, but do not touch them unless invited. Speak quietly and mindfully, maintaining a calm and respectful atmosphere throughout the experience.

5. Are there specific dress code recommendations or items to avoid for a Japanese tea ceremony?

While there isn't a strict formal dress code for most visitor experiences, it's recommended to wear neat, modest, and comfortable clothing. Avoid overly revealing attire, strong perfumes, or noisy accessories like dangling jewelry, which could distract from the serene atmosphere. It's also advisable to wear socks, as you will remove your shoes before entering the tea room.

6. Beyond principles, what specific elements and actions in a Japanese tea ceremony hold symbolic meaning?

Many elements in a tea ceremony are symbolic. The precise movements of the host symbolize discipline and respect. The tea room's sparse design represents simplicity and tranquility. The carefully chosen tea utensils, often antique, evoke history and artistry. The act of sharing tea fosters harmony, while the ephemeral nature of the foam on the matcha symbolizes the fleeting beauty of life and the present moment.

7. How should one properly receive and consume the tea and sweets during a Japanese tea ceremony?

When sweets are served, consume them before the tea. Upon receiving your tea bowl, gently lift it with your right hand, support the bottom with your left, and rotate it clockwise (usually twice) to avoid drinking from the front, which often features a design. Take a few sips, praising the tea's flavor, and wipe the rim with your finger after the last sip before rotating the bowl back and returning it to the host.

8. Is it necessary to wear traditional Japanese attire, such as a kimono, for a tea ceremony experience in Tokyo?

No, it is not necessary to wear a kimono for a Japanese tea ceremony experience in Tokyo. While wearing a kimono can enhance the cultural immersion, it is entirely optional for guests. Most participants wear their regular neat and respectful attire. The focus is on the experience itself and adhering to the etiquette, rather than on specific traditional clothing.

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