Private Tea Ceremony (Casual Clothes) for Groups Gion Maikoya

A minimum charge for 15 people applies to reservations. For fewer participants, the 15 person rate is charged.

Traditionally the tea ceremony is best enjoyed by wearing kimono but we allow large groups to join the activity by wearing casual clothes. So you can still experience this superb cultural ritual in the heart of the ancient capital without changing clothes.

 

Trip advisor award
Our award-winning cultural experiences are some of the best in the country, earning a place in TripAdvisor's list for Traveler's Choice Award and Japan's Top Experiences for five consecutive years. (2018-2022)
 

 

Location

KIMONO TEA CEREMONY MAIKOYA at GION KIYOMIZU

100, Rokurocho, Matsubara-dori Yamatooji Higashi iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto

京都市東山区松原通大和大路東入轆轤町100
 

This building is a registered tangible cultural property in Japan.

 

 

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Authentic Tea Ceremony Kyoto
maccha-japan

Tea Ceremony

Our award-winning tea ceremonies are not only enjoyable but also a comprehensive educational experience. Our expert tea master and host, and friendly staff will demonstrate the process during the tea ceremony while explaining the significance behind it the steps and the tools. You will get to learn about tea ceremony history, Kyoto, and tea ceremony etiquette.

During the tea ceremony, you will not only observe how to make matcha green tea but you will also be guided on the process of making your own by the tea master. You will be using high-quality matcha powder that will produce a brilliant cup of green matcha.
 
 
 
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The historical scenic townhouse

Our tea ceremonies are held in a historic machiya that has been registered as a Tangible Cultural Property, located conveniently in central Kyoto. The traditional townhouse is just a few minutes away from the Gion-Shijo train station and nearby popular destinations such as the Gion geisha district and the Kiyomizu Temple. Everyone is welcome to take pictures in the tea room and the garden, along with our unique backdrops! After all, who wouldn’t want to preserve the memory of a cultural experience?

 
 
 
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The foundations of Zen philosophy

You don't even need to worry about the language barrier! All of our staff is fluent in English and can answer and explain anything about the ceremony. Asking questions during the tea ceremony is welcome. Our staff will teach you about the foundations of Zen philosophy that have influenced the Japanese tea ceremony: Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku, which translates into harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

 
 
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Japanese sweets

Japanese sweets with Maccha

You will also be sampling traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which will vary in flavors, shapes, and colors according to the season. Each experience at Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya is unique just by the snacks served at each session, not just by the personalization for each guest.

 
 

You can sit comfortably, in any appropriate way you prefer.

ryurei table style tea ceremony
 

While the tea ceremony is traditionally performed while everyone sits on the tatami mat, we encourage getting comfortable and crossing your legs if you'd like. Bamboo chairs are also provided upon request.

 


Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya

 

 


Traditional Tea Ceremony

What is a tea ceremony?

The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as sado, chado, or chanoyu, is a centuries-old tradition of preparing and serving powdered matcha green tea, stemming from the practice of Buddhism in China. This is a ritualistic way of making matcha, a type of powdered tea unique to Japan, which is made from dried tea leaves and produces a bright green color.

This is a rare treat for visitors who want to experience the true culture and essence of Japan!


Do you want to know more? Visit our blog for more information! Click here.

 


authentic tea ceremony

How is the tea ceremony performed at Maikoya?

The tea ceremony begins by being welcomed into the tea room by the host, also called the "teishu", where the tools and utensils are laid out ready to be used for the ritual. While everyone is expected to sit on the tatami mats arranged on the floor, wooden chairs are provided for those who choose not to. Comfort is prioritized at Maikoya, so you are welcome to sit however you like!

The matcha is typically prepared in a quiet and calm environment, but guests are encouraged to ask questions and learn more about the ritual. If there are none, the host will explain the process from time to time, providing introductions and demonstrations so you can familiarize yourself with the tools and steps during the ceremony.

 Casual Tea Ceremony

Tea ceremony tools and utensils are taken great care of, with the host wiping them gently with a silk cloth to make sure they are clean. Some of the items used in the ancient tradition are important artifacts that have been used for generations. After preparing the items, the host will carefully measure the matcha powder and hot water, demonstrating the step before teaching you the mesmerizing process of whipping the matcha until it creates a thick foam.

 

After the tea is prepared, you will get to taste the matcha and the product of your hard work! The matcha tasting and preparation is participated in by everyone in your group if you booked for multiple people.


It’s a feast to the eyes, to your ears, and mind when a person preparing the hot water. Listening as the water dancing against the hot cast iron. It’s like a river murmuring. Incense would be lit and the smoke travels across your eyes like a silver dragon flying across the sky. She paused briefly as she flexed her wrist signifying the end of cleansing the bamboo ladle. So beautiful and therapeutic to gaze at. Her every move freezes time, space in all dimensions. You forget all your earthly frivolous needs.