Tea Ceremony Japan Experiences MAIKOYA
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PRIVATE Geisha (Maiko) Tea Ceremony and Geisha Performance in Kyoto

Enjoy private geisha(maiko) tea ceremony & show in Kyoto at Geisha Experience Gion MAIKO CHAYA. This is a special event joined only by you. Whether you are seeking a memorable experience in Japan or just on a honeymoon, this is a very unique experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Please don’t worry about the location or communication with the geisha (maiko) as our location is near the central Gion-Shijo station and our English-speaking staff will be present to interpret for you. Kimono wearing experience included. ( Please show up 30 minutes before to put on Kimono)

 

geisha Kyoto 1

Geisha(maiko) tea ceremony near Gion Kyoto at Maikoya. Enjoy participating in a traditional tea ceremony in a traditional tea ceremony room led by an authentic Kyoto geisha. Your tea ceremony host will be a geisha(maiko) who will introduce you to this Japanese ritual. The geisha culture was born in Kyoto where young women, called geiko, used to serve tea to pilgrims who are visiting historic temples in Eastern Kyoto.

This is a once in a lifetime geisha(maiko) tea ceremony experience that includes

  • Tea ceremony led by a real geisha(maiko)
  • Actual tea ceremony participation in the same room with the geisha(maiko) (not demonstration on the stage)
  • Making your own green tea
  • Wearing a traditional kimono. (Please show up 15 minutes before to put on Kimono)
  • Trying Japanese sweets as part of the experience
  • Explanation of the history and the traditions of geisha(maiko) and also tea ceremony
  • Opportunities for taking photographs with geisha(maiko) and asking questions to her
  • Presence of an interpreter
  • Geisha (maiko) will perform a short dance or you will play a traditional party game with Geisha(maiko)
  • Once in a lifetime cultural experience with the combination of zen, harmony, perfectionism, Japanese hospitality, Japanese green tea and Japanese sweets

geisha gion

As part of their training the geisha(maiko) in Kyoto learn how to conduct tea ceremony and often hold tea ceremony under sakura trees in special occasions. At Geisha Experience Gion MAIKO CHAYA,  we want to preserve the unique geisha culture of Kyoto by holding the geisha tea ceremony sessions for locals and travelers whenever possible. Come and enjoy this once in a lifetime experience before it is sold out.

geisha tea ceremony

Tea ceremony no doubt is the most unique Japanese activity as it helps you understand Japanese history, values, religion, Japanese communication style and Japanese drinking culture at once. Did you know that you can enjoy tea ceremony experience more and learn more about the culture when your instructor is a geisha (maiko) in training? In this workshop, a Maiko will walk you through step by step of traditional tea ceremony. This is a ritual-like activity where ceremonial tea is prepared and presented to promote well-being, mindfulness and harmony. It is also called the Way of the Tea. The tea itself is a powdered green tea and is called Matcha.

geisha show kyoto

HIGHLIGHTS

You will make a green tea (Matcha) in an ancient style Japanese tea ceremony room wearing Kimono. In this workshop, a qualified instructor will walk you through step by step of traditional tea ceremony. This is a ritual-like activity where ceremonial tea is prepared and presented to promote physical and mental well-being, mindfulness and harmony. It is also called the Way of the Tea. You will learn the foundations of the zen philosophy: Wa, kei, sei, jaku, which roughly translate as harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. You will observe how your host perfectly and harmoniously use all the traditional utensils to make the perfect cup of tea in way that has been done the same for about 400 years. And, finally, you will make your own tea and enjoy Japanese traditional sweets.

Your tea ceremony experience will include:

  • Meeting with a geisha(maiko) in a tea room
  • An introduction to the Japanese tea ceremony and associated rituals
  • This is performed by an apprentice geisha (maiko)
  • Wear a kimono and get your hair done (for ladies) (Please show up 30 minutes before to put on Kimono)
  • You will be encouraged to try traditional green matcha tea and Japanese styled sweets
  • Only traditional tea ceremony utensils will be used
  • The workshop will be taught to a small group of participants
  • Relax in a classroom decorated in traditional Japanese décor and architecture
  • Explanations of the ceremony’s history and technique in simple English
  • Not only watching the demonstration but actually performing the ritual
  • If you are interested, you can ask questions to the geisha(maiko) and take a picture together
  • We also have tea ceremony artifacts and displays with detailed explanations in English that will help you better understand the subtle meanings and the rich history behind this unique tradition

Learn Japanese culture with all of your senses – especially your sense of wonder!

Just in case if you were wondering:

  • You are allowed to take pictures in the tea ceremony room after the ceremony as well as the other rooms and in front of our unique backdrops
  • You are allowed to sit comfortably on the floor (without sitting on your knees on the tatami mat). We also provide bamboo chairs for those who prefer not to sit on the floor

We are confident that this experience will be your best souvenir from Japan. You can easily make a reservation now by choosing the best date for you.

***PS: Minimum of 2 participants are needed to reserve for this event.

geisha Kyoto 5

 

Please note that our cancellation policy is of 3 days before, otherwise we will charge you a cancellation fee as below.

* 50% of your total amount will be charged if you cancel from 7 to 3 days prior to your reservation date.

* 100% of your total amount will be charged if you cancel from 3 days prior to your reservation date.

Review

Geisha Experience Gion MAIKO CHAYA
Geisha Experience Gion MAIKO CHAYA
4.9
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Sointex Jambis
Sointex Jambis
06:52 05 Mar 20
Wonderful service. Perfect for anyone, including Japanese. Just opened in December 2019. You can meet with a geisha and ask questions. Great experience.read more
Allira Mahon
Allira Mahon
07:01 25 Feb 20
Enjoyed the Geisha tea ceremony! After being dressed in a Kimono, I was escorted to the venue. Our host and interpreters were amazing. Explained all the reasons behind the spiritual aspects of the ceremony, and after the Maiko did her dance we were able to ask lots of questions. If you want a beautiful authentic experience, please give this a try!read more
Sam Thompson
Sam Thompson
06:59 15 Feb 20
Amazing experience with our private tea ceremony. The staff made us feel welcome from the start and gave a lovely talk about each of the items on display. Really a great afternoon and can really recommend.read more
Tiffany Mazeau
Tiffany Mazeau
06:54 11 Feb 20
Awesome experience, you can ask a lot of questions and learn so much! The tea ceremony is very enjoyable too and you can take pictures of the whole process. The maiko was very beautiful and kind, she answered to all of our questions, we really enjoyed our time here. Thank you again!read more
Emily McDonnell
Emily McDonnell
03:27 28 Jan 20
It's repeated over and over in the reviews but this really is a once in a lifetime experience. To be able to experience a traditional dance and tea ceremony is outstanding but to recieve it from a real Maiko is just inexplicable. The staff could not have been more lovely and accommodating. Will absolutely be coming back next time I'm in Kyoto.read more
Sascha Krebs
Sascha Krebs
02:26 20 Jan 20
One of the most amazing and wonderful experiences we had during our stay in Kyoto. The whole staff was really wonderful and helpful, we were able to ask all the questions you want to ask a Maiko. The tea ceremony was beautiful. We got to wear Kimonos and after all that we had a great walking tour through the Gion district where we also learned so many things by two members of the Kyoto Geisha Show staff. Thank you again for all your help and the wonderful afternoon we had at your lovely place!read more
Maria CRUZ ORELLANA
Maria CRUZ ORELLANA
08:11 19 Jan 20
I’ve done tea ceremonies before but they have never been like this one. They were able to accommodate a big group (19 people) and we got to ask the Maiko-san questions and and take pictures. The women that dressed us were kind and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.read more
Janki Patel
Janki Patel
08:09 19 Jan 20
This is a must do experience in Kyoto! All the ladies are so nice and welcoming. They even got our group a Maiko to perform the ceremony. Overall amazing experienceread more
Taylor Espinola
Taylor Espinola
07:59 19 Jan 20
What a wonderful experience! I loved every second and it was very interactive. We were a very large group and they were so professional and accommodatingread more
nairi nabi
nairi nabi
07:59 19 Jan 20
Such an incredible experience! A must for anyone visiting Kyoto. The women that work here are so knowledgeable, hospitable and sweet. Genuinely a pleasant and once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend it!!!read more
Shankar Radhakrishnan
Shankar Radhakrishnan
10:28 29 Nov 19
We had a great tea ceremony experience at this place. We enjoyed the detailed explanation and relaxed atmosphere. Definitely worth the experienceread more
Karina Didenko
Karina Didenko
06:12 12 Nov 19
This experience is one in a life time, so I definitely recommend it to everyone! It's quite engaging and informative at the same time as first of all you're watching Maiko traditional seasonal dance, after what she shows you how to make a proper green tea and gives you to experience it yourself. The last memorable moment is a question and answer time. Everything what you're interested in about maiko you can ask her personally and receive an answer! Moreover, staff is very friendly, helping, and everyone takes good pictures of you!read more
lourosexx .
lourosexx .
05:33 06 Nov 19
Amazing experience and not to be missed! Staff are lovely and tea ceremony was a once in a lifetime! We even got to see a traditional danceread more
Lisa Thurston
Lisa Thurston
07:36 01 Nov 19
5 Star experience, must do in Kyoto! Our host Nana was amazing and very knowledgable. The sweet making was really fun and Nana showed us different techniques to make different designs. The Tea Ceremony was so insightful, we feel we learned a lot about the tea and Japanese culture and we were so lucky to also meet a beautiful Geisha. We would recommend this to anyone!read more
Nazi Yazdi
Nazi Yazdi
05:25 01 Nov 19
I loved the experience I have had today. Every thing was beautiful and my group and I enjoyed the beautiful ceremony lovely kind staff who helpe us get ready and very nice lady who performed tea ceremony and the beautiful geisha. Thank you so very much.read more
Next Reviews
5 / 5 ( 22 votes )
Age 2+

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  • Included
    Meeting with a geisha (maiko)
    Geisha(maiko) dance performance
    Kimono wearing (Please show up 15 minutes before to put on Kimono)
    Geisha(maiko) tea ceremony
    Picture time with the geisha(maiko)
    Trying Japanese sweets
    Q&A time and chatting with the geisha(maiko)
    Interpreter
  • Not Included
    Transportation
    Hotel Pick up
  • Maps
  • Organizer

    Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto

    We are a cultural experience venue located in the heart of Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan. We pride ourselves on providing authenthinc experiences in Kyoto. Founded on the four main pricinples of tea ceremony (Harmony, respect, purity and tranquility) Maikoya has gained recognition among both locals and foreigners. Maikoya also recently has been selected as one of the best tea ceremony venues in Japan by Tripadvisor. Learning about a country through cultural workshops and activities will give you a better understanding of our intricate history, valued social principals and holistic way of life. By learning about Japan and its people, you will be immersed in different perspectives and approaches that are unique to this country. Maikoya Kyoto offers you opportunities to understand this culture through local instructors and guides. There is no better way to learn about a new place from the viewpoints of those who grew up and live in this amazing country. What better way to spend an afternoon than learning a traditional, beautiful new art form with a knowledgeable tutor in a picturesque setting? You wouldn't find friendlier people to help you experience Japan in all its splendour.
    Our address is Japan, 〒604-8006 Kyoto, Nakagyō-ku, Nakanocho, 565-4 JP Take Exit 9 at the Kawaramachi Station  google map
    Our phone number is 075-606-5303
    Our email address is kyoto@mai-ko.com
    *** Please let us know the gender ratio and if you have any food allergies, Halal, gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian preferences.

    Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

    • Do you accept walk-ins?

      Yes, we accept walk-ins. However, it is chepaer to book online and you may need to wait if you show up without a reservation especially during the peak season.
    • Do I need to wear a kimono?

      Traditional tea ceremony is usually conducted by wearing a kimono but since you may simply not be interested in it or you may be pregnant (earlier than 3rd trimester OK) we don’t require you to wear a kimono.
    • Do I need to sit on my knees all the time or I can sit comfortably? Can I sit on the chair?

      Yes you can sit comfortably without sitting on your knees. Yes we do provide chairs and desks if you need.
    • What is the etiquette for tea ceremony?

      Please remember to --take your shoes off, --be quiet and not talk to your partner throughout the ceremony, —not use your cell phone (we allow photos before and after) but ideally you should forget worldly and materialistic thoughts.
    • Do you have kimonos for kids?

      Please remember to --take your shoes off, --be quiet and not talk to your partner throughout the ceremony, —not use your cell phone (we allow photos before and after) but ideally you should forget worldly and materialistic thoughts.
    • Do you have plus size kimonos?

      Yes we do have extra size kimonos. If you are a plus size please let us know when you reserve about your size.
    • Can I walk outside wearing the kimono for the rest of the day?

      Yes! you can walk outside with additional fee JPY1000 by 6 pm!
    • Do you provide any hairdo services?

      Yes (for females), we will make sure you look your best and your hair matches the traditional kimono style.
    • Do you only show activities or you explain the meanings, symbols etc?

      Of course we explain all the meanings and symbols. We also answer many questions you may have (what tis the relationship between zen and tea ceremony, what is the relationship between zen and shodo, what is the difference between Shinto and Buddhism, etc.)
    • Do you have a souvenir shop where I can get matcha tea, tea ceremony set, calligraphy set, etc. to remember my experience?

      Yes we do.
    • Where can I buy a kimono?

      We can recommend you a few nearby shops that sell 2nd hand, upscale and economy kimonos, yukatas, samues and hakamas.

Upgrade


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Tokyo Branch

Kimono Tea Ceremony Tokyo Maikoya

2-19-15-9F, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
03-6273-8818   tokyo@mai-ko.com



Osaka Branch

Kimono Tea Ceremony Kyoto Maikoya

4 Chome-8-20 Fukushima, Fukushima Ward, Osaka, 553-0003, Japan
06-6556-6247   osaka@mai-ko.com

Kyoto Branch

Kimono Tea Ceremony Kyoto Maikoya

329, Ebiyacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
075-606-5303   kyoto@mai-ko.com


Kyoto Branch

Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum

Teramachi Utanokoji building 2F, 292, Higashidaimonjicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
075-585-5410   samurai@mai-ko.com



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