Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony With Scenic Garden Views

Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s revered tea traditions. Set against the picturesque backdrop of a tranquil garden, participants can explore the art of chanoyu, preparing and savoring matcha while indulging in traditional sweets. This captivating experience not only showcases the essence of Japanese tea culture but also provides a chance to capture memorable moments in a serene setting, just steps away from the iconic Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. What awaits beyond this initial glimpse is a journey that promises to…

Key Points

• Offers a traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) experience with scenic garden views near the iconic Kiyomizu-Dera Temple in Kyoto.
• Includes the preparation and serving of matcha tea along with traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi).
• Allows participants to capture moments with photos or a 30-second video.
• Provides insight into the refinement and mindfulness of the tea ceremony ritual.
• Accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers per session and starts from $40.37 per person.

Overview and Experience

The Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers visitors a chance to enjoy the serene and time-honored tradition of Japanese tea culture.

Participants will enjoy scenic garden views while expertly guided through the intricate steps of preparing and serving matcha, the powdered green tea.

The experience includes two cups of matcha and traditional Japanese sweets known as wagashi.

Guests can also capture the moment with a photo or 30-second video.

This intimate tea ceremony provides a glimpse into the refinement and mindfulness that characterize this revered cultural practice in the heart of historic Kyoto.

Location and Meeting Details

From Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, travelers can walk about 50 meters from Sannen-zaka and turn left before the garden, proceeding about 10 meters to the entrance gate of Tea ceremony SAKAGUCHIAN (茶道体験 阪口庵), the meeting point for the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony.

The experience ends back at the same location.

The address is:

1. 3-chōme-334 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0043, Japan
2. The end point returns to the meeting point.
3. Directions: Turn left before the garden and walk about 10 meters to the entrance gate.
4. From Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, walk about 50 meters from Sannen-zaka.

Availability and Pricing

Maximum of 12 travelers are accommodated per session for the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony. Priced from $40.37 per person, the experience offers excellent value.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time. Viator and Tripadvisor reviews are all 5-star, providing confidence in the quality of the tea ceremony.

The lowest price is guaranteed, ensuring travelers get the best deal. With limited capacity and high demand, it’s advisable to book the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony well in advance to secure a spot.

Accessibility and Recommendations

While the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers a scenic and immersive cultural experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers. The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it isn’t recommended for those with back problems.

Plus, the ceremony involves sitting on the floor, which could be challenging for individuals with foot and knee issues.

Attendees should consider the following:

1. The tea ceremony takes place on the floor, requiring participants to sit in a traditional Japanese position.
2. The session may last up to 1.5 hours, which could be taxing for those with mobility concerns.
3. Attendees must remove their shoes before entering the tea room.
4. The experience may not be suitable for travelers with limited flexibility or endurance.

Reviews and Ratings

How does the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony fare in the eyes of past participants?

With a perfect 5-star rating based on 4 verified reviews, it’s clear this experience has left a lasting impression.

Travelers rave about the scenic garden views, delightful matcha and wagashi, and the authentic tea ceremony itself.

One reviewer noted it was the "highlight of our Kyoto trip."

Another called it a "special, memorable experience."

The consensus is this tea ceremony offers an immersive cultural glimpse, skillfully executed in a picturesque setting.

For those seeking a quintessential Kyoto activity, the reviews suggest this is a winner.

The Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu, is a refined and time-honored art form that has been practiced for centuries.

Steeped in symbolism and etiquette, the tea ceremony is a sensory experience that engages the mind and body.

During the ceremony, the host meticulously prepares and serves matcha green tea to guests in a serene, minimalist setting.

The ceremony follows a specific sequence of steps:

1. Purification of the tea utensils
2. Preparation of the matcha
3. Presentation of the tea to your
4. Appreciation of the tea’s aroma, flavor, and temperature

This ritualistic practice cultivates mindfulness, hospitality, and a deep respect for the natural world.

Matcha and Wagashi: Delightful Accompaniments

Two essential accompaniments to the traditional Japanese tea ceremony are matcha and wagashi. Matcha is a finely powdered green tea that is whisked into a frothy, vibrant brew. Its grassy, umami flavors complement the refined ceremony. Wagashi are delicate, bite-sized Japanese sweets that often feature seasonal ingredients.

Matcha	Wagashi
Powdered green tea	Bite-sized Japanese sweets
Vibrant green color	Features seasonal ingredients
Whisked into a frothy brew	Complements the tea ceremony
Umami, grassy flavors	Elegant, refined presentation

Together, the matcha and wagashi create a harmonious sensory experience, enhancing the serenity and mindfulness of the tea ritual.

Capturing the Moment: Photos and Videos

What better way to capture the memorable moments of the Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony than with photos and videos? The experience includes a 30-second video to help you relive the ritual.

Additionally:

1. Snap photos of the serene garden views surrounding the tea house.
2. Capture the intricate preparations as the tea master skillfully brews the matcha.
3. Immortalize the moment you sip the frothy green tea and savor the delicate wagashi.
4. Share your experience with friends and family through your photo and video keepsakes.

The tea ceremony’s graceful movements and tranquil atmosphere lend themselves perfectly to visual mementos you’ll treasure long after your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Tea Ceremony Last?

The tea ceremony lasts approximately 1 hour, during which you will enjoy 2 cups of matcha (green tea) and traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi. The experience includes a scenic garden view at the Tea Ceremony SAKAGUCHIAN in Kyoto, Japan.

Can I Take Part in the Tea Preparation?

Yes, participants can actively take part in the tea preparation. The tea ceremony includes hands-on instruction where guests learn to properly whisk the matcha tea and arrange the traditional Japanese sweets.

What Attire Is Recommended for the Tea Ceremony?

The recommended attire for the tea ceremony is casual and comfortable. Avoid wearing anything too formal or flashy, as the focus should be on the ceremony itself. Dress in simple, modest clothing that allows you to sit comfortably on the floor.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for participants. The tea ceremony is open to all ages, though it may not be suitable for very young children due to the traditional customs and etiquette involved.

Do I Need to Make Any Special Dietary Requests?

There are no special dietary requests needed. The experience includes 2 cups of matcha (green tea) and traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which are typically vegetarian-friendly. Let the organizers know if you have any specific dietary needs.

The Sum Up

The Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich traditions of Japanese tea culture. Surrounded by the serene garden views of Kyoto, participants can savor the delicate flavors of matcha and wagashi while engaging in the mindful practice of chanoyu. This unforgettable experience allows visitors to capture memorable moments and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of tea.