Enjoy the serene world of Ocharu, a captivating one-hour tea ceremony held near Tokyo University. Participants will savor premium teas, including robust wakocha and delicate Gyokuro sencha, paired with seasonal wagashi sweets, while learning the art of matcha whisking under the guidance of expert hosts. This culturally rich experience not only fosters a deep appreciation for Japan’s tea traditions but also offers an array of keepsakes and photo opportunities to preserve the memories of this tranquil journey. Prepare to be enchanted as you step into the serene realm of the Japanese tea ceremony.
Key Points
- Immersive one-hour Ocharu tea ceremony experience near Tokyo University, offering premium teas, traditional sweets, and hands-on matcha preparation instruction.
- Tasting of high-grade Japanese teas, including robust wakocha, umami-rich Gyokuro sencha, and comforting Genmaicha, paired with delicate seasonal wagashi confections.
- Participants engage in the traditional art of whisking ceremonial-grade matcha, learning techniques and tools from a tea master while exploring Japanese tea culture.
- Keepsakes, including a completion certificate and commemorative photo, serve as lasting reminders of the authentic Ocharu tea experience.
- Flexible cancellation policy with free refunds up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free booking process for both tea enthusiasts and curious visitors.
Experience Overview
The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as Ocharu, offers visitors a captivating one-hour experience located across from the renowned Tokyo University.
Priced from $34.73 per person, this immersive activity allows guests to explore the nuances of Japanese tea culture.
Reservations are easily made with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can look forward to sipping on premium Japanese teas, savoring traditional sweets, and even learning to whisk their own matcha under the guidance of expert hosts.
With a certificate of completion and group photo to commemorate the occasion, this Ocharu tea ceremony provides an authentic cultural encounter.
Tea and Sweets Tasting
Upon entering the specially designed Ocharu Tea Ceremony Room, guests are welcomed with a sip of wakocha, the robust Japanese black tea.
This prelude sets the stage for the tasting of Gyokuro sencha, the highest grade of green tea, paired with seasonal wagashi – delicate confections from the renowned "Ougiya" confectioner.
The fragrant, umami-rich sencha and the melt-in-your-mouth wagashi create a harmonious dance of flavors, immersing participants in the nuances of Japanese tea culture.
The experience concludes with a final pour of Genmaicha, a blend of sencha and roasted rice from Niigata Prefecture, offering a balanced and comforting finale to this immersive tea journey.
Matcha Preparation Session
Participants then dive headlong into the hands-on matcha preparation session, where they whisk their own ceremonial-grade matcha under the expert guidance of the tea master. As they grasp the elegant bamboo tea whisk, a sense of focus and connection with centuries of Japanese tea culture fills the air. The simplicity of the ritual belies the depth of knowledge required, and the tea master skillfully imparts the nuances of this time-honored tradition.
| Tool | Purpose | Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Chawan | Ceramic tea bowl | Holds the matcha powder |
| Chasen | Bamboo whisk | Used to froth the matcha |
| Chashaku | Bamboo tea scoop | Measures the precise amount of matcha |
| Chakin | Linen cloth | Cleans and dries the utensils |
| Mizusashi | Water container | Provides hot water for the tea |
Keepsakes and Photo Opportunities
As participants conclude their hands-on matcha preparation, they’re presented with a certificate of completion, commemorating their immersion in the rich traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony.
This keepsake serves as a tangible reminder of their newfound appreciation for the art of tea. Plus, the group is invited to gather for a commemorative photo, capturing the camaraderie and shared experience of the event.
These thoughtful mementos allow guests to cherish the memories long after the ceremony has ended, ensuring that the essence of this time-honored tradition remains etched in their minds and hearts.
The opportunity to access the specially designed Ocharu Tea Ceremony Room further enhances the authenticity of the experience.
Health Restrictions and Reservations
No specific health restrictions apply to the Ocharu Tea Ceremony, though participants should inform the organizers of any allergies to tea or traditional Japanese sweets.
Reservations are required in advance for this popular experience, and guests should arrive 5 minutes early to check-in.
The tea ceremony room isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but the organizers are happy to accommodate any other special requests or concerns.
With a focus on the centuries-old traditions of Japanese tea culture, this immersive experience offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with the country’s rich heritage.
Location and Accessibility
The Ocharu Tea Ceremony takes place in a specially designed room across from Tokyo University’s campus. This intimate setting allows visitors to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese tea culture.
Though the ceremony room isn’t wheelchair-accessible, the tea experience itself doesn’t have any specific health restrictions. As long as you inform the staff of any allergies to tea or sweets, you’re good to go.
Just be sure to arrive 5 minutes early for check-in, as advanced reservations are required. Whether you’re a tea aficionado or simply curious about this centuries-old tradition, the Ocharu Tea Ceremony offers a unique and memorable experience in the heart of Tokyo.
Duration and Pricing
The Ocharu Tea Ceremony lasts for an hour, providing visitors with a comprehensive introduction to the art of traditional Japanese tea ritual.
Priced at just $34.73 per person, the experience offers incredible value. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with the added convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or simply curious to learn more about this centuries-old practice, the Ocharu Tea Ceremony promises an immersive and unforgettable journey into the refined world of Japanese tea culture.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Reserving the Ocharu Tea Ceremony allows guests the flexibility to make changes to their plans, as the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This ensures that visitors can book with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their investment if their schedule suddenly changes. Whether it’s an unexpected work commitment or a family emergency, the cancellation policy provides peace of mind.
With just a day’s notice, guests can receive a complete refund, making the Ocharu Tea Ceremony an accessible and hassle-free experience for all.
This thoughtful policy reflects the Japanese cultural values of hospitality and consideration for the guest’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Participants Take Home the Wagashi Confections?
Participants can’t take home the wagashi confections. They’re meant to be enjoyed during the tea ceremony experience, savored alongside the exquisite green tea tasting. However, the experience provides a keepsake certificate to remember the moment.
Is the Tea Ceremony Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The tea ceremony is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. The tea and sweets experience includes a vegetarian-friendly traditional tea cake and seasonal wagashi confections that can accommodate dietary restrictions upon request.
Are There Any English-Language Instructions Provided During the Experience?
The tea ceremony experience offers English-language instructions throughout, ensuring participants can fully engage and enjoy the centuries-old tradition. Expert guides provide clear explanations and guidance during the hands-on matcha preparation and tasting sessions.
Can the Tea Ceremony Be Booked for a Private Group Event?
Yes, the Ocharu Tea Ceremony can be booked for a private group event. This immersive experience allows you and your party to dive into centuries of Japanese tea culture in an intimate setting.
What Is the Typical Group Size for the Tea Ceremony?
The typical group size for the Ocharu Tea Ceremony experience is flexible, accommodating both intimate gatherings and larger parties. The tea room can host groups ranging from 2 to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and immersive cultural encounter.
Recap
The Art of Tea offers a captivating journey into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Guests will savor premium teas, master the art of matcha whisking, and depart with cherished memories and keepsakes – all while immersed in the serene world of Ocharu. This exquisite experience fosters a deep appreciation for the timeless traditions that define the Japanese tea ceremony.
