Gigative · Experiences
Traditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto
About this experience
Our tea ceremony experience is designed to be welcoming, approachable, and meaningful. While the traditional tea ceremony is often seen as formal and solemn, we aim to share its beauty in a comfortable and accessible way. Guests enjoy the experience seated on chairs, allowing anyone—including those unfamiliar with floor seating or with limited mobility—to participate with ease. Throughout the session, you will explore the history of tea in Japan, learn how Zen philosophy shaped the heart of the tea ceremony, and observe authentic techniques performed up close by a tea master, allowing you to appreciate the subtlety and refinement of this art. In the second half, you will savor carefully selected traditional sweets from long-established artisans and make your own bowl of matcha using premium tea sourced from a family-run farm. We conclude with a Q&A session to deepen your understanding. We hope this experience becomes the beginning of your journey into Japanese tea culture.
What to expect
Step into the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district and discover the beauty of the Japanese tea ceremony in a modern way. In this hands-on experience, you’ll learn how to prepare and enjoy matcha in a serene setting that reflects the elegance of traditional Kyoto culture. Guided by a tea master who have many experience of tea ceremony(Sa do), you’ll witness the graceful rituals of chanoyu and then try it yourself — whisking your own bowl of matcha. Along the way, you’ll also hear stories about the history of tea, the spirit of omotenashi (hospitality). Whether it’s your first time in Japan or you’re a returning traveler, this experience offers a rare chance to slow down, savor the moment, and take part in a centuries-old art form right where Kyoto’s heritage lives.
What’s included
- Japanese traditional sweets for tea ceremony selected by tea master
- Hand out recipe for enjoying Matcha in your daily life
- Matcha drink from local tea farm
- Guidance for making Matcha, and history by tea master
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Tea Ceremony
Tea ceremony (Private)
Private Class: Families with infants and toddlers are more than welcome!
Meeting & pickup
- Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of the session. Please note that if you are late, you will not be able to join the session once it has begun, and no refund required. The meeting point is located 5th floor of this building. Please come up to the meeting point with elevator.
End point
- Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of the session. Please note that if you are late, you will not be able to join the session once it has begun, and no refund required. The meeting point is located 5th floor of this building. Please come up to the meeting point with elevator.
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of the session. Please note that if you are late, you will not be able to join the session once it has begun, and no refund required.
- This experience is held on in English.
- Ages 5 and younger are not permitted.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.