The Mindful Wagashi Making & Tea Ceremony experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the captivating world of Japanese culture. Blending the art of traditional sweet-making with the serene ambiance of a tea ceremony, this program promises an unforgettable journey. Participants will have the chance to craft delicate nerikiris, gaining insights into the seasonal elements that influence their creation, all while basking in the tranquil setting of the Ikegami-Baien garden. This experience not only fosters a deeper appreciation for Japan’s cultural heritage but also promotes a sense of mindfulness and presence that lingers long after the session has ended. Those seeking to embark on this captivating exploration are sure to find it a truly remarkable encounter.
Key Points
- Immersive two-hour experience blending traditional Japanese sweets making and tea ceremony in an authentic tea room setting.
- Fosters mindfulness and cultural connection through guided meditation, lectures, and engagement of all five senses.
- Includes hand-crafting of two nerikiris (traditional Japanese sweets) and participation in an authentic tea ceremony.
- Provides English recipe and reference video for nerikiri, as well as entry to the Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden.
- Strict policy on punctuality and prohibited items ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Experience Overview
The activity takes visitors on an immersive journey through the art of traditional Japanese sweets making and tea ceremony.
Hosted in an authentic tea room within the serene Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden near Haneda airport, the 2-hour experience offers a chance to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Participants will focus on mindfulness as they hand-craft two nerikiris, or Japanese sweets, and partake in a carefully curated tea ceremony.
Throughout, an enthusiastic instructor provides insights into the significance of each step, allowing guests to fully engage their senses and appreciate the seasonal atmosphere.
With included materials and a take-home recipe, this activity promises an unforgettable culture.
Mindfulness and Cultural Connection
Consistently, the activity focuses on mindfulness through the traditional Japanese practices of sweets making and tea ceremony. By incorporating meditation at check-in, participants enhance their present moment awareness. The friendly instructor’s lectures deepen connections to Japan, allowing guests to utilize all five senses in appreciating the seasons, atmosphere, and personal sensations.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Mindful Wagashi Making | Participants make two nerikiris (traditional Japanese sweets) while cultivating focus and appreciation. |
| Traditional Tea Ceremony | Guests partake in a serene tea ceremony, savoring the matcha and seasonal sweets. |
| Immersive Atmosphere | The authentic tea room in the Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden creates a captivating cultural ambiance. |
Included Activities and Materials
This activity’s included activities and materials allow guests to fully enjoy the Japanese cultural experience.
Visitors can stroll through the beautiful Ikegami-Baien Japanese garden before making two traditional Japanese sweets, called nerikiri. They then participate in an authentic tea ceremony, enjoying the sweets and matcha tea.
Guests receive an English recipe for the nerikiri and a video for reference. The tea room usage and garden entrance fees are included, and an apron and hand towel are provided.
This well-rounded experience engages all five senses, offering a deep connection to Japan’s rich traditions and seasonal aesthetics.
Important Information and Guidelines
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures travelers can keep their plans flexible. However, this experience isn’t suitable for everyone. Children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired, and those over 95 are unable to participate. To attend, meet the group in front of the LAWSON store, just a minute from the Nishimagome station’s south gate. Bring a camera and avoid short skirts. Pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited.
| Guideline | Details |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Not suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, visually impaired, or people over 95 |
| Meeting Point | In front of LAWSON, 1 minute from South gate of Nishimagome station |
| What to Bring | Camera, comfortable clothes (avoid short skirts) |
| Not Allowed | Pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, drugs |
Meeting Point and What to Bring
The meeting point for this experience is conveniently located in front of the LAWSON convenience store, just a minute’s walk from the south gate of Nishimagome station.
Guests are advised to bring a camera to capture the serene beauty of the Japanese garden and the intricate process of making traditional wagashi sweets.
Comfortable clothing, avoiding short skirts, is recommended as you will be engaged in hands-on activities.
It’s important to note that pets, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t permitted during the experience.
Following these simple guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable mindful wagashi making and tea ceremony.
Handmade Sweets Consumption
Handmade wagashi sweets created during the experience are typically consumed on-site. While participants can take the sweets home, doing so is at their own risk as the delicate nature of these traditional treats may not withstand the journey. To help ensure maximum enjoyment, the organizers recommend savoring the wagashi within the tranquil tea room setting.
| Savoring On-site | Taking Home |
|---|---|
| Sweets stay fresh | Potential damage |
| Ambiance of tea room | Limited shelf life |
| Instructor guidance | Personal responsibility |
| Shared experience | Convenience diminished |
The tea ceremony and wagashi making are designed to be fully experienced in the moment, allowing participants to enjoy Japanese cultural traditions.
Attire Recommendations
Participants are recommended to wear comfortable, suitable attire for the experience. This means avoiding short skirts, as the activity takes place in a traditional tea room.
While the handmade sweets are unlikely to get clothing dirty, it’s prudent to dress in attire that provides peace of mind. The experience encourages participants to fully enjoy the mindful process of making wagashi and partaking in the tea ceremony.
Late Arrival Policy
Late arrivals are treated as a cancellation, incurring a 100% charge. This strict policy is in place to ensure the smooth running of the Mindful Wagashi Making & Tea Ceremony experience.
The session is carefully timed, and late participants may disrupt the flow and attention of the group. Plus, late arrivals may miss critical instructions or preparations, compromising their overall experience.
To avoid any additional fees, it’s recommended that participants arrive at the designated meeting point on time. The organizers emphasize the importance of punctuality to maintain the tranquil and immersive atmosphere of this traditional Japanese cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Experience?
Yes, you can take photos during the experience. The overview states that you should bring a camera to capture the beautiful Japanese garden, traditional sweets making, and tea ceremony.
What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The activity provider accommodates most dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. Guests should inform the instructor of any special needs when booking so appropriate modifications can be made to the sweets and tea served during the experience.
Is the Tea Room Wheelchair Accessible?
The tea room is not wheelchair accessible, as the guidelines state it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. However, the experience may be enjoyed by those without mobility issues who can navigate the stairs and uneven terrain of the Japanese garden.
Can I Extend the Experience Duration?
Extending the experience duration is not directly mentioned in the details provided. However, the activity can likely be customized for longer experiences upon request, subject to availability and additional fees charged by the organizers.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?
The experience doesn’t seem to offer any discounts or group rates, based on the information provided. However, it’s best to check with the organizers directly to inquire about any special offers or pricing for larger groups.
Recap
The Mindful Wagashi Making & Tea Ceremony experience offers a captivating blend of traditional Japanese artistry and serene mindfulness. Participants deeply engage with the crafting of delicate sweets and the tranquil tea ceremony, fostering a profound connection to Japan’s cultural heritage. This unique and unforgettable activity promotes a sense of presence and calm, leaving lasting impressions on all who partake in its immersive journey.
