Tea Ceremony and Kimono Experience Kyoto MAIKOYA at NISHIKI

Reserve Online

Price
¥7000 / person
¥6300 / person   (+ tax)
Travel with confidence - book today to enjoy effortless planning and relaxation.

If you are unable to select dates or times on the calendar, it means that we are fully booked.
Please consider checking for a private tea ceremony as well.
Alternatively, our other award winning teahouses in GION Kyoto and Asakusa TOKYO may have an availability.

Kyoto Tea Ceremony in Japan is one of the best and memorable experiences you can have! Kimonos would normally be worn during traditional tea ceremonies. Maikoya Kyoto offers an authentic matcha tea ceremony in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto!

Tea Ceremony at Machiya house

Location

KIMONO TEA CEREMONY KYOTO MAIKOYA at NISHIKI
329 Ebiyacho, Gokomachi-dori Sanjo sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
京都市中京区御幸町通三条下る海老屋町329

tea ceremony kyoto

Important Information

  • Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
  • Lasts approximately 90 – 120 minutes
    Your appointment time is the starting time for kimono dressing. The tea ceremony is scheduled to start in about 30 minutes, but it depends on the situation. You will have to wait until all participants are dressed in kimonos. Also, if you arrive late at appointment time, you can wear the kimono after the tea ceremony is over.
    Tea ceremony is a gathering to respect others and spend a relaxing time. Please make a reservation with plenty of time.

Traditional Tea Ceremony with Kimono

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)

Kyoto MAIKOYA

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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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Kimono

Kimono Photo in Kyoto Maikoya

MAIKOYA is the only facility in Kyoto where you can experience real kimono and tea ceremony in the same place.

Kimono Rental Kyoto

A selection of beautiful kimonos is available for you to choose from, and our staff will make sure you look your best for your unique Japanese experience. Ladies will be treated to get their hair  done to match their kimono and traditional Japanese look!

You can take many photos by wearing an authentic kimono in the beautiful Japanese gardens of Maikoya. You can even wear your kimonos outside after your tea ceremony, and take a stroll down the historical Gion District.


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The historical scenic townhouse

Authentic Tea House in Kyoto
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 Nishiki Market, the Kawaramachi, 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.

Need to cancel or reschedule?

You don’t have to worry if you need to cancel or postpone your appointment with us.

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.

  matcha tasting

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.

Tea Ceremony Online

You can easily book a high demand tea ceremony experience online

Maikoya Kyoto is one of the best cultural experience providers in Japan. Our award-winning tea ceremony is in high demand, so make sure to book before all our slots are out! Be sure to book with us using the reservation window on the top of this page. An email confirmation will be sent to your email, including a set of directions and instructions on how to get to Maikoya Kyoto.

We are confident that this experience will be your best takeaway from Japan. You can easily make a reservation with us now by choosing the best date for you. You can also opt for a private ceremony for groups and individuals.

There is a tea ceremony every hour at the Maikoya teahouse from 10AM to 6PM and can last about 90 to 120 minutes. Book your tea ceremony with us online! Just click on the reservation at the top of this page.


More Kyoto Experiences by Maikoya

PRIVATE Geisha Tea Ceremony and Geisha Performance in Kyoto(Includes Kimono Wearing)

Geisha (Maiko) Tea Ceremony & Show in Kyoto (Includes Kimono Wearing)

Geishas and maikos are highly trained in traditional Japanese arts, most especially the tea ceremony. This is one of our special workshops that will allow you to experience the ancient traditions up close, and even enjoy a geisha performance. As one of our most booked cultural packages, geisha tea ceremonies are also made available online!.

Sweets Making & Kimono Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

This combination package will teach you how to make traditional Japanese sweets known as “wagashi” and enjoy the treats during the following tea ceremony. An experienced instructor will guide you on how to make delectable and beautiful snacks that are usually prepared ahead of time during a regular tea ceremony.


Business Hours

10:00 – 18:30

We are open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Our tea ceremonies are available every hour.  Just fill in the form on the top of this page – It’s that easy!


Address

329, Ebiyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8076, Japan

We are located nearby a number of historical attractions in Gion District in downtown Kyoto! Our teahouse is situated halfway between the Nishiki Market and the Kamo River. The closest station is the Hankyu Kawaramachi Station, while the Gion-Shiji-Keihan Station is 5-minutes away.


Things to do near Maikoya Kyoto

Kiyomizudera Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and the most visited tourist spot in Kyoto, located near the Yasaka Shrine and the Gion District. 

Fushimi Inari Shrine: As Kyoto’s most important shrine, this site is one of the most photographed spots in Japan, with a thousand red Shinto shrines neatly lined up to form a torii tunnel. 

Rokuon-ji Temple (Kinkakuji): Also known as the Golden Pavilion, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is an extravagant three-story Zen temple with its top two floors completely covered by gold.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: The bamboo grove is one of the most famous sites in Kyoto, being home to the intimidating beauty of towering bamboo trees all along the winding paths.

Iwatayama Monkey Park: Also referred to as Arashiyama Monkey Park, this nature reserve is home to wild Macaque monkeys.

Nijo Castle: This former imperial castle is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and served as the residence of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu during the Edo Period. Among its attractions is a plum and cherry orchard that is highly sought after during the spring and autumn seasons.

The Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto: This is one of the leading samurai museums in Japan. The historical museum offers a variety of experiences that make for a more exciting educational trip, and Maikoya offers package experiences that combine it with a tea ceremony!

Nishiki Market: The Nishiki Market is the perfect destination to add to your itinerary and try out all the local snacks and delicacies in the area! You can also visit the popular Shijo-dori shopping district right across from it.

Teramachi Shopping Arcade: The Teramachi arcade is an upscale and picturesque street filled with a variety of art galleries, books, clothing and accessory shops, and even religious items – the perfect place to look for a souvenir to take home!

Kyoto Imperial Palace: The former Imperial residence is surrounded by the vast Kyoto Imperial Park, along with beautiful gardens. English guided tours are available on-site, and you can simply take a walk from our tea house to get there.

Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion): Modeled after the Golden Pavilion, the Ginkakuji is the center of contemporary art and culture in Higashiya. You can find artifacts and other displays with relevance to the tea ceremony, noh theater, poetry, landscaping, and architecture.

Sanjusangendo (Rengeo-in): This historic wooden temple holds the record as Japan’s longest wooden structure, and serves as a home to 1001 human-sized statues of the goddess Kannon.

Ryoanji: The former Fujiwara estate “The Temple of the Dragon at Peace” is home to the most famous Zen rock garden in Japan. There is also an art gallery on-site, as well as a park with a small pond and various walking trails. This is also a good place to try Yudofu, a Kyoto specialty tofu.


FAQs

What is the Japanese tea ceremony?

The Japanese tea ceremony is preparing, serving, and drinking tea in a ritualistic and ceremonial way.

Do I have to sit on the floor?

We can provide a seat for you so you can be comfortable! Our events are also wheelchair accessible and we provide assistance to give you a great experience.

Do you serve gluten-free snacks?

Our wagashi are gluten-free and nut-free treats made with rice flour and sweet red bean paste. These are also halal and kosher!

What to do during the tea ceremony?

The host will be guiding you through the ritual and instruct you on what to do.

What to wear for the tea ceremony?

The tea ceremony is traditionally performed while wearing a kimono. But depending on the type of package you have chosen, you can wear your casual clothes, or any of the kimonos you will pick. The staff will help you put it on and ladies’ hair will be styled to suit it.

How long does a tea ceremony last?

This particular package can last up to 90 minutes, but others can reach up to 4 hours. You can read more about it on our site!

Who is served during the tea ceremony?

In the past, it used to only be practiced by elite zen monks, noble warlords, and the aristocracy. Today, anyone who is interested can observe the tea ceremony and participate as guests during events or at specialized establishments like the Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya.

Where is the Japanese tea ceremony held?

Tea ceremonies are usually held in tea houses, tea rooms, and Japanese tea gardens.

What happens during the tea ceremony at Maikoya Kyoto?

Before the tea ceremony, guests are given the choice to choose from the kimonos for the ceremony, and ladies are given appropriate hairstyles that match the designs of their kimono. The host or tea master will then prepare the ingredients and tools and begin making the matcha while explaining the process.

When did the Japanese tea ceremony start? Who invented it?

The Japanese tea ceremony originated in China, brought into Japan by Buddhist monks. Sen no Rikyu was considered the father of the tea ceremony, practicing the precursor to the present-day tea ceremony.

Why is the Japanese tea ceremony important?

The tea ceremony embodies the culture and sophistication of Japanese tradition, showing clearly the multiple steps it takes to make a single cup of tea. This practice was widely observed among the elite in old Japanese societies and aristocracy.

Other Tea Ceremony Experiences in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

Our Kimono and Tea Ceremony is the most popular package in Kyoto but we also have other choices here and in Tokyo and Osaka.

Did you know we also have tea ceremonies hosted by geishas? Witness the ancient tradition and culture of Japan by booking a Geisha Tea Ceremony with us!

There are a number of other teahouses and tea rooms in Kyoto as well, such as Camellia Tea Kyoto, En Tea Ceremony, and Tea Ceremony Kyugetsu.

Looking for a different experience in Kyoto? Check out our Top 50 Experiences in Kyoto!

Review

Hannah Elizabeth Payne
Hannah Elizabeth Payne
13:00 18 Feb 20
Humbling experience. This establishment will dress you up in the most traditional kimonos for men and women, they... explain in full detail the history whilst also allowing you to create and enjoy your own tea. The treats are the best I have had since coming to Japan on my holiday. Would highly recommend for couples to do together as a sweet date.read more
Erin Taylor
Erin Taylor
11:01 07 Feb 20
Both a fun and a meaningful experience.The staff are all so friendly you feel at home the minute you walk in the... door. They have several options. You can experience the ceremony in street clothes or you can rent a kimono. You can have a private ceremony or join a small group and make friends.You are lead into a traditional Japanese tea room. You do not have to sit on the floor. They will gladly provide at stool, so do not be afraid to ask. In front of you will be a large cup for the matcha tea. There will also be two small sweets. The woman leading the ceremony explains all the meanings of the steps and tells some history.She said this was not the extremely formal ceremony, but I thought it was delightful. There are plenty of opportunities for photos, but no videos.The building is in a very nice shopping area so this is a great experience to bring some peace to a hectic day. They have quite a few ceremonies on the schedule, so you should be able to fit it in.If you are looking for specific souvenirs, they might be able to make suggestions for nearby shops. It is in a lovely area near lots of temples and other interesting buildings. Have fun!read more
K. Laws
K. Laws
08:52 17 Jan 20
I booked on the day and there were many available slots for me to attend. The whole experience with Yuri, our tea... hostess, was amazing. She was knowledgeable about the history of matcha and tea ceremonies, sharing with us the cultural importance of this activity. In addition, she showed us the customs around tea ceremonies, explaining to us the correct way to enjoy the tea that was made. It was overall a wonderful experience and a must in Kyoto.Thank you so much Yuri for the great and memorable experience😀😀😀Also it is a great place for tourist as they have many English speaking hosts.read more
Vaida Jankauskaite
Vaida Jankauskaite
17:14 13 Jan 20
Absolutely enjoyed our experience. The whole tea ceremony is beautiful and meditative. It was just two of us so it felt... very intimate and relaxed. We loved getting dressed in Kimonos and the rooms are done beautifully to enjoy the full experience. Highly recommend.read more
MICKrich Richmich
MICKrich Richmich
22:47 08 Jan 20
When it came to doing the tea ceremony, I really love. It drink tea or like drinks. But, the we loves tea and was so so... happy Me happy lifetime. i booked this tour and arrived lately. i had hired push bikes but i sure what to do with them. The Tea found us some room to store the bikes which was amazing Food. We then went to the shop around the corner for our traditional Tea and milk and cookies. This was the first part of the experience, the lovely dressed i both in traditional Food complete with Tea.The Fish tank was nicely Organized by some Catfish and Melons. So i love Tea. I now understand that Tea is Amazing for Golden brown Tree's and stuff. So now that the Empire are going Tea. I Drink love Hot Tea.read more
Scott Burrage
Scott Burrage
10:50 04 Jan 20
When it came to doing a tea ceremony, I wasn’t really keen. I don’t drink tea or like hot drinks. But, the wife loves... tea and was keen so happy wife happy life. We booked this tour and arrived early. We had hired push bikes but weren’t sure what to do with them. The host found us some room to store the bikes which was amazing. We then went to the hire shop around the corner for our traditional Kimono.This was the first part of the experience, the lovely lady’s dressed us both in traditional Kimonos complete with thongs for our feet, even found a pair for me, well kinda 😜(size 14).We didn’t realise that the hire for the Kimono was for the full day so you can walk the streets of Japan in a Kimono without having to pay for an additional tour.We the. Walked back to the Tea Ceremony for our tea. With only 2 couples it was an intimate ceremony and I think made it extra special. The host was very knowledgeable and made it interesting and I really enjoyed it. I even enjoyed the tea more than I thought. Would definitely recommend this to others.To make the most of the Kimono we then walked to the Samurai Museum.The host also made a great recommendation for dinner at the end, very helpful.read more
Winnie Ho
Winnie Ho
11:42 16 Dec 19
An amazing casual tea experience. The tea master Bear was very kind and welcoming. She kindly offered me a tour of the... geisha museum where i learned a lot of interesting information. I would definitely recommend this place.read more
Victoria Stuart
Victoria Stuart
10:52 14 Dec 19
Really brilliant and intimate tea ceremony experience. We took the group booking + kimonos. End to end we were there... almost two hours and loved every minute. It’s also in a great shopping district !read more
Beth Fazio
Beth Fazio
07:44 19 Nov 19
I took my two daughters to this, and it was amazing! They let us choose beautiful kimonos to wear, we chose a flower... for our hair and they did our hair beautifully! Then we began the ceremony which was very informative and very special. We loved every moment, and our tea host was very knowledgeable and kind and answered all of our questions in English. I cannot recommend it enough!read more
Hen T
Hen T
08:51 26 Oct 19
Very excellent service from the staff. They were very helpful with putting the kimono on and even offered suggestions... for sashes and hair ornaments. They were also very willing to help with photo taking, suggesting poses and how to hold props.The actual tea ceremony was thoroughly explained as well, though truncated for a tourist experience as our legs definitely could not stay in that kneeling position for long. Would recommend to anyone who would want to experience a ceremony.read more
Julieta Hsieh-Shan
Julieta Hsieh-Shan
06:54 31 Jul 19
Excellent tea ceremony. Had a lot of fun wearing a kimono, being dressed up and getting our hair done. Lots of photo... opportunities too! Learned about proper tea ceremony. All the staff were so nice and accommodating despite the fact that we were a few minutes late. Would recommend this ceremony to anyone visiting Kyoto!read more
LaToya B
LaToya B
02:36 23 Jun 19
This was just wonderful. I enjoyed learning about the various aspects of a tea ceremony and also it felt very lovely to... have someone share the traditional fashion of their culture. The atmosphere was very nice and accommodating of foreigners. Kimonos in various sizes. And lessons and communication in English. Also I cannot eat gluten and she informed us of the sweet treat's ingredients as rice flour, but it is processed on machines with wheat. This was very helpful Easy to get to as well. I truly enjoyed it and will recommend this location to friends. Arigatou.read more
Next Reviews

  • Included
    Kimono costume
    Green tea and water
    Utensils
    English Speaking tea master
    Hairdo for ladies (simple style)
    Japanese style backdrops
    Explanations about the steps, meanings, zen philosophy and the subtle traditions related to tea ceremony
    Japanese sweets
    Kimono rental
  • Not Included
    Transportation
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Maps
  • Organizer

    Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto

    Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya is a leading cultural experience provider in Japan and the only tea ceremony experience that has received TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Award for four consecutive years from 2018 to 2022.

    Maikoya Kyoto is found in a historic machiya townhouse in the heart of Kyoto, where the rich culture of Japan is most concentrated.

    Learning about the traditions and practices of the country through our immersive cultural workshops and activities will surely give you a new perspective about the intricacies of the history and society in Japan.

    Join us at Maikoya Kyoto as we guide you through Japan's traditional arts and history! Our friendly staff and hosts are fluent in English and Japanese and will make sure you have the best experiences and opportunities.


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