adminWhile Tokyo is Japan’s business metropolis, Kyoto is its cultural heart. This rich heritage is reflected in the many temples and shrines scattered throughout the city. You might even spot geishas in traditional attire walking the streets. As a visitor, you can take part in one of Kyoto’s most unique experiences: the traditional tea ceremony.
A bit of history
The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as chanoyu or sado, dates back to the 9th century when tea was first introduced from China. Initially monks used it for meditation. The ceremony evolved into a refined cultural ritual by the 15th century under the influence of Zen Buddhism. The tea master Sen no Rikyū played a key role in shaping the ceremony into a spiritual and artistic practice centered on simplicity, harmony, respect, and mindfulness. Today, the tea ceremony remains a symbol of Japanese tradition and hospitality.
Tea ceremony in Kyoto
There are many places in Kyoto where you can take part in a traditional tea ceremony. You usually have the option to participate with or without wearing traditional clothing. Be sure to choose a reliable provider and book well in advance as this activity is extremely popular. Also, choose your time slot carefully. Matcha tea, which is used during the ceremonies, contains a lot of caffeine. So it’s not ideal to do this in the evening if you’re planning on going to bed early!
The experience
Maikoya
I booked a tea ceremony with Maikoya. They have several locations throughout the city, including one close to the hotel where we were staying. It’s definitely not the cheapest option out there, but you get great value for your money. The entire experience lasts 90 minutes. There are shorter and more affordable versions available, but I wanted the full experience. A once-in-a-lifetime moment, right? I chose the ceremony in kimono. Our group of 12 people was very diverse—there was a Portuguese family, an Italian couple, and even some Japanese visitors from Tokyo who were in Kyoto for a city trip.
The preparation
The great thing about joining a tea ceremony in kimono is that you’re not just handed a robe to throw on—it’s a full experience. Professionals carefully dress you and help you step into several layers of traditional garments. First comes the undergarment, followed by the kimono itself, which is then adjusted and folded precisely to fit your body. Next, they wrap a wide obi belt tightly around your waist and tied at the back in a decorative knot. They’ll make sure everything sits perfectly, often securing parts with extra ties underneath. The whole dressing process took nearly half an hour, but it truly made me feel like I’d stepped back in time. Or maybe this is how a bride feels when everybody helps here preparing for her wedding!
The ceremony
During the ceremony, you sit on tatami mats arranged in a half-circle. In front of you is a small bowl containing matcha powder. The host begins by sharing some background about the history of tea ceremonies, the ritual itself, and its cultural significance in Japan.
The ceremony officially starts with the purification of each object used. This symbolic cleansing is an essential part of the ritual. After that, the tea is prepared. The host adds hot water to the matcha powder. Then a special bamboo whisk is used to vigorously mix the tea. Once a layer of foam forms, the whisk is gently moved over the surface to smooth it out. The tea is now ready.
Before drinking the bitter matcha, we are served two traditional Japanese sweets: a small block of fine pure sugar and a mochi filled with cinnamon paste. These delicate treats help soften the intense, earthy flavor of the tea – just a little! And with that, the ceremony comes to an end.
Want to experience this for yourself? Book by GetYourGuide or by Maikoya directly!
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