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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 19 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Rob Goss

A classical expression of Japanese hospitality that can last for hours in its most elaborate form, the tea ceremony has been practised for centuries. Every aspect, from where the most important guest is seated to how the host wipes the utensils, has significance. Every movement is choreographed, and for kimono-dressed practitioners, the nuances take years to perfect.

Full versions (around 4 hours) are only for die-hards; shorter versions are available down to a mere 30 minutes, but the shorter it is, the less traditional. There are usually special options for children, and some will include sweet-making.

Even the shortest versions, though, are a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and formality.

Man and woman sit down to tea
Experience

Maikoya Tea House Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

This teahouse runs a variety of ceremonies, from a simple 40-minute version to a 90-minute version with a geisha performance. There’s a 2-hour one that includes making traditional sweets, and a special one for kids under 9.

Best for ages: 6+ | £25 | 45 or 75 minutes

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Price from: £20
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
Frequency: daily
When: On request
Duration: Up to 4 hours

Getting there & doing it

As a traveller, don’t stress, teahouses will lead first-timers through everything. You won’t be expected to follow each intricate rule – if cramp sets in from kneeling in the seiza position, nobody will be offended if you wriggle on the tatami.

Dress fairly conservatively, avoid strong perfume and remove jewellery that could damage the tea bowls, then follow the instructions as best you can.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Japanese Tea Ceremony (Group session)

Japanese Tea Ceremony (Group session)

Kyoto

The Japanese Tea Ceremony Workshop, theory and practice, is conducted by licensed tea masters and is unique in Kyoto. It is set in the Grand...

¥3,040 | Rating 4.96 / 5 [81 ratings]

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Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony: Camellia Flower Teahouse

Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony: Camellia Flower Teahouse

Kyoto

We want your time with us to be a rich and enjoyable one, and to that end we encourage guests to not only participate but actively ask any q...

¥3,300 | Rating 4.72 / 5 [22 ratings]

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Traditional Tea Ceremony wearing a Kimono in Kyoto MAIKOYA

Traditional Tea Ceremony wearing a Kimono in Kyoto MAIKOYA

Kyoto

Only Tea Ceremony venue to win the Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award four years in a row. KYOTO MAIKOYA relocated to an old machiya house ...

¥8,500 | Rating 4.75 / 5 [243 ratings]

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Japanese Tea Ceremony (Private Session) in Kyoto

Japanese Tea Ceremony (Private Session) in Kyoto

Kyoto

Our private Japanese Tea Ceremony is aimed at connoisseurs or persons looking for a more comprehensive experience. Normally only Usucha (t...

¥9,620 | Rating 4.95 / 5 [70 ratings]

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Aman Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Traditional inn meets luxury wellness retreat at this uber-exclusive hotel. Special extras include mineral-rich hot-spring baths and an evening with the geisha of Kyoto’s oldest chaya (teahouse).

Official star rating:

BnA Alter Museum

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

One for art aficionados – a minimalist boutique that’s a living art gallery. All rooms are created by local artists.

Official star rating:

Ace Hotel Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

A plush hipster hangout smack in the heart of central Kyoto, ideal for arty and creative types.

Official star rating:

Celestine Kyoto Gion

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

An affordable hotel offering modern Japanese simplicity and hospitality in the historic Gion geisha district. A great base for sightseeing.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Kyoto

Kansai, Japan

Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

The towering stalks and soft light of Arashiyama’s much-photographed bamboo grove make this iconic Kyoto sight an almost otherworldly experience.

Best for ages: 4+ | £3

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Cherry blossom in Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

The blossoms of ornamental cherry trees – Japan’s national flower – beguile and dazzle, both visitor and local alike – when the spring wave turns Japan pink.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2 months

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Day trip to Nara

Nara, Kansai, Japan

Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital, from 710 to 794. Today, it’s revered for eight locations making up the ‘Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara’ World Heritage site.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Sunrise on tempe between trees
Experience

Kenninji Temple

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Established in 1202, this temple at the southern end of Hanami-koji has traditional Zen gardens and incredible ceiling murals of dragons (added in 2002). It claims to be the oldest temple in Kyoto.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Busy covered market
Experience

Nishiki Market

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Stretching along five shop-lined blocks, Kyoto’s oldest food market immerses visitors in Kyoto’s culinary heritage. Over 100 stalls and restaurants offer all and anything food related.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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