Sado, which literally means "way of the tea" and is more commonly known as "tea ceremony," has a rich history spanning over 500 years and is considered one of the most classic and iconic components of traditional Japanese culture.
The history of the Japanese tea ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony, known as "the way of tea" or "chanoyu," is a longstanding tradition in Japan involving the preparation and service of green tea in a traditional tea room.
The ceremony is not only about tea; it serves as a means for guests to experience the hospitality of their host in a calm atmosphere, unlike the fast pace of everyday life.
In the 8th century, tea was brought to Japan from China and consumed as a medicinal beverage, particularly among priests and the upper class.
Tea-drinking parties became popular among the affluent members of society, where participants showcased their exquisite tea bowls and shared their knowledge about tea.
At the same time, a refined tea party emerged with a Zen-influenced simplicity and a greater emphasis on spirituality.
These gatherings are the origins of the tea ceremony.
Sen no Rikyu (1522-1591) was the father of the modern tea method, advocating for an austere, rustic simplicity.
His teachings have inspired most of today's tea ceremony schools.
Camellia - Experience a spot of the tea ceremony in Kyoto 1. Camellia
Photo by @_apple_lemonade
The tea ceremony is a way to experience the heart of Japanese culture.
Guests are given a unique experience by combining various art forms.
You can enjoy seasonal sweets and refreshing tea during the ceremony, and even learn the basics of tea making from an expert instructor before you leave.
There are two stores that you can visit.
The Flower Teahouse is in the historic Ninenzaka neighborhood in the core of Kyoto's renowned Higashiyama district.
It's easy to get there by walking to Kiyomizu-dera, Kodai-ji, Chion-in temples, Maruyama Park, Yasaka-Jinja shrine, and the geisha district in Gion.
The Garden Teahouse is a store that is also located in a traditional house that is 100 years old and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
One of Kyoto's most popular destinations, Ryoan-ji, is only a minute away by walking.
The Zen temple's rock garden is considered the most famous of its kind in the world and is well-known for it.
fee
time
experience
Shared Tea Ceremony
4,000 yen per person
2,500 yen for children 7-12 (children 6 and under are free)
Kimono Rental +6,000 yen per person
45 minutes
Tea ceremony
Private Tea Ceremony
8,000 yen per person
15,000 yen for a 1 person Private Tea Ceremony
Kimono Rental +6,000 yen per person
45 minutes
Tea ceremony
Private Tea Ceremony
12,000 yen per person
20,000 yen for a 1 person Private Tea Ceremony
Kimono rental is not available at this location.
MAIKOYA - Experience a spot of the tea ceremony in Kyoto 2.
This is the only Tea Ceremony venue that has won.
The Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award has been awarded for 5 consecutive years (2018-2022).
KYOTO MAIKOYA provides traditional tea ceremonies in the historic Gion district and the city center, with the choice to wear a kimono.
The tea ceremony that won an award is 45 minutes long and costs $22 (or $48 with a kimono).
Downtown Kyoto offers the kimono tea ceremony from 9 AM to 5 PM every hour, but the geisha tea ceremony only happens once daily.
The traditional tea ceremony involves kneeling on the floor, but you can sit comfortably.
Please feel free to provide chairs if you'd like them.
Maikoya owns two historic traditional townhouses in Kyoto.
Both locations contain picturesque Japanese tea gardens, providing visitors with a wonderful chance to experience authentic Japanese culture.
fee
time
experience
Kimono + Tea Ceremony
6,300 yen per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
90 minutes
Tea Ceremony, wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets
PRIVATE Kimono Tea Ceremony
10,800 yen per person
*The above is the unit price for 4 people. The fee for 4 people or fewer is 60,000 yen per group.
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
90 minutes
Tea Ceremony, Wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets
Japanese Sweets Making + Kimono + Tea Ceremony
10,800 yen per person
*at GION KIYOMIZU
120 minutes
Sweets Making, Tea Ceremony, wearing a kimono,
Kimono Tea Ceremony for Kids (ages 7-12) and Families
6,300 yen per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue. If you have a child under 7 in your party, you can not make the reservation for this experience.
*at NISHIKI
90-120 minutes
wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets, Tea Ceremony
Geisha or Maiko Tea Ceremony & Show
11,700 yen per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
*at GION KIYOMIZU
45 minutes
Geisha Performance, a Tea ceremony hosted by a real Kyoto geisha
Tea Ceremony KOTO - Experience a spot of the tea ceremony in Kyoto 3.
Photo by@tarahey_
Attending an authentic tea ceremony as observers is a unique experience offered by the tea ceremony.
The host will prepare each ceremony with utensils, flowers, powdered green tea, and other items that fit the season or purpose.
Matcha, a powdered green tea, can have different tastes based on the amount of tea, water, and temperature.
The flavor is also influenced by the whisking method.
Guests can make their powdered green tea using traditional utensils during the ceremony, with the host's guidance.
The interpretations of each tea utensil or movement will be clarified and vary depending on the season.
And then, the Tea Ceremony KOTO holds an Ikebana lesson, so if you want to try Ikebana, you should add this lesson.
It's ideal for anyone interested in experiencing authentic Japanese culture.
fee
time
experience
Shared tea ceremony
3,000 yen per person ~
*Children under 13 years old 1,800 yen/person
The tea ceremony has certain rules that must be followed, so understanding them is important if you plan to participate in the tea ceremony.
Can we talk during the tea ceremony?
Photo by @nakaiiyskgram
Silence is observed during a formal tea ceremony to show respect to the host and guests.
At the beginning of the ceremony, when the host and guests first meet, it is customary to bow silently to each other.
During the process of making thick tea (cache), everyone remains quiet.
After the thick tea has been served, only the main guest can have a conversation with the host.
Guests are supposed to listen to the sound of the water boiling in the tea kettle, which is called matsukaze (meaning the soughing of the wind through pine trees), while drinking the final cups of Matcha (thin tea, usucha). During this time, they do not speak much.
Baby or small children can join the tea ceremony?
Families with young children, particularly those aged 0-3, should opt for the Private Tea Ceremony, as we recommend.
In case your baby starts crying, please wait in the adjoining waiting room if you decide to join our shared tea ceremony
The tea ceremony aims to create a calm and serene atmosphere.
