Enjoy Japanese Art With Sake and Tea

Japan’s exquisite art and culture come alive through an immersive experience with sake and tea. Participants savor seasonal sake varieties paired with traditional snacks, learning about their flavors and origins. They then master the art of matcha preparation and relish exquisite wagashi sweets during a standing tea ceremony. This journey through Japan’s rich culinary heritage promises to delight the senses and leave guests yearning for more.

Key Points

• Immerse in the beauty and traditions of Japan through a guided exploration of seasonal sake, matcha tea, and traditional Japanese confections.
• Discover the subtle flavors and production methods of three types of seasonal Japanese sake paired with complementary snacks.
• Prepare and enjoy matcha tea along with traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) in a standing-style tea ceremony promoting calm and tranquility.
• Explore the cultural significance and regional differences of sake and Japanese culinary arts in a 10-minute walk from the popular Senso-ji Temple.
• Flexible scheduling from January 2025 to February 2026 allows visitors to indulge in this immersive cultural experience at their convenience.

Experience Overview

Visitors can enjoy a tranquil experience exploring Japanese art and culture through a pairing of seasonal sake and traditional Japanese confections. The activity showcases three types of seasonal Japanese sake, each accompanied by complementary Japanese snacks.

Participants will also have the opportunity to prepare matcha tea and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets known as wagashi. The standing-style tea ceremony promotes a sense of calm and tranquility.

This cultural experience allows guests to enjoy the beauty and traditions of Japan through the senses of taste, sight, and touch.

Location and Meeting Details

The meeting point for this experience is BARLEY, located at 5-chōme-67-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan.

It’s approximately a 10-minute walk from Senso-ji Temple via Senzoku-dori shopping street.

Look for a white building with two large windows, located after turning right at the Seven-Eleven convenience store.

• The activity ends at the meeting point.
• The building is easy to spot, being the only one of its kind on the street.
• Reaching the location is straightforward, as it’s just a short walk from a popular tourist destination.

Schedule and Availability

When does the "Enjoy Japanese Art" activity operate?

The activity runs from January 10, 2025, to February 25, 2026.

It’s open daily from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, providing plenty of flexibility for visitors.

This allows ample time for participants to enjoy the serene Japanese art experience, complete with sake, tea, and traditional sweets.

Whether you’re an early bird or a late riser, this activity caters to various schedules, ensuring everyone can find a convenient time to indulge in the cultural delights on offer.

Inclusion and Pricing

For the "Enjoy Japanese Art" activity, the price starts from $50.36 per person, which includes Japanese sake, matcha, wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), and snacks.

Additional servings of sake or matcha are available for an extra fee.

The experience also offers:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the activity
• Reserve now and pay later option
• Maximum of 10 travelers per tour/activity

The activity is accessible, with wheelchair accessibility, stroller accessibility, and allowance for service animals.

Participants shouldn’t have serious medical conditions, and infants must sit on laps.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Maximum of 10 travelers can participate in the "Enjoy Japanese Art" activity at a time.

The experience is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. Service animals are allowed. The meeting point is near public transportation, though infants must sit on laps.

The surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and participants shouldn’t have serious medical conditions. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

With a maximum group size of 10, this intimate experience allows visitors to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese art, sake, and tea traditions.

Discovering the Art of Japanese Sake

As part of the "Enjoy Japanese Art" experience, participants have the opportunity to sample a carefully curated selection of three seasonal Japanese sake varieties.

The sake is thoughtfully paired with a variety of Japanese snacks, allowing guests to fully enjoy the subtle flavors and aromas of this traditional beverage.

The experience promotes a deeper appreciation for the art of sake-making, with highlights including:

• Exploring the nuances of each sake type, from delicate floral notes to robust umami flavors.
• Learning about the regional differences and production methods that contribute to sake’s diverse character.
• Discovering the perfect food pairings that enhance the sake-drinking experience.

Mastering the Art of Matcha Preparation

How does one prepare the perfect matcha during the "Enjoy Japanese Art" experience? Participants learn the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a meditative process of whisking the vibrant green powder into a frothy beverage.

First, they scoop the matcha into a ceramic bowl, then add hot water and whisk briskly to create a smooth, foamy texture. Guests savor the earthy, slightly sweet flavor, accompanied by delicate Japanese sweets known as wagashi.

This standing-style tea ceremony promotes tranquility, allowing visitors to enjoy the art and culture of Japan through the elegant ritual of matcha preparation.

Savoring the Tradition of Japanese Sweets

After savoring the meditative process of matcha preparation, guests can indulge in the exquisite world of traditional Japanese sweets, known as wagashi.

Wagashi are delicate confections that showcase the beauty and seasonality of nature. Some popular varieties include:

• Mochi: Soft, chewy rice cakes often filled with sweet bean paste.
• Daifuku: Mochi filled with seasonal ingredients like strawberries or red bean.
• Dorayaki: Pancake-like cakes sandwiched with a sweet azuki bean filling.

These delectable treats not only delight the palate but also captivate the senses with their intricate designs and elegant presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Activity?

The activity has a casual dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as you will be standing during the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. There’s no need for formal attire.

Can I Bring My Own Sake or Tea?

Participants can’t bring their own sake or tea. The experience includes the provided Japanese sake, matcha, and traditional sweets. Additional servings of sake or matcha are available for an extra fee if desired.

Is Photography Allowed During the Experience?

Photography is allowed during the experience. Participants are welcome to capture the traditional Japanese setting, the tea preparation, and the sake and snack pairings to document their memorable culture.

How Knowledgeable Are the Hosts About Japanese Culture?

The hosts are highly knowledgeable about Japanese culture, guiding participants through traditional tea ceremonies and sake tastings. They provide insightful explanations to deepen guests’ appreciation of these time-honored Japanese art forms.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Japanese Sake or Matcha?

Guests can request specific types of Japanese sake or matcha, but the selection may be limited to what’s seasonally available. The hosts are knowledgeable and happy to provide recommendations to suit individual preferences.

The Sum Up

This immersive experience allows you to discover the art of Japanese culture through the senses. You’ll savor seasonal sake, learn the intricacies of matcha preparation, and enjoy traditional sweets – all within a serene setting that celebrates Japan’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the country’s timeless traditions.