Private Tour

Private Matcha Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Kyoto House

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Kyoto with a private matcha ceremony rooted in the Yabunouchi tradition. Held in a family home cared for over generations, this 90-minute experience invites you to connect with the harmony and mindfulness at the heart of Japanese tea culture.

Your journey begins in the machiai (waiting room), where you will learn the philosophy of the Yabunouchi school. You will then purify your hands and spirit at the tsukubai stone basin before entering the tea room through the nijiriguchi, a humble gesture central to the tradition.

Inside, observe a matcha preparation demonstration and enjoy freshly whisked tea with seasonal sweets. Spend a quiet moment in reflection and cultural conversation.

Afterward, explore our family’s traditional Japanese house, shaped by my grandfather’s refined aesthetic sensibilities. This intimate ritual, embodying the spirit of Ichigo-ichie, invites you to slow down and appreciate the subtle nuances of Japanese hospitality.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Explanation of tea ceremony philosophy and etiquette

Cultural conversation and Q&A with the host

Guided introduction to the tea room and traditional Japanese house

Seasonal Japanese sweets (wagashi)

One bowl of freshly whisked matcha per guest

Private tea ceremony in the Yabunouchi tradition

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation to and from the meeting point

Meals other than the provided seasonal sweets

What To Expect

During this 90-minute experience, you will: Begin in the machiai (waiting room), where you will learn about the philosophy and meaning behind the Yabunouchi school of tea. Purify your hands and spirit at the tsukubai stone basin. Enter the tea room through the nijiriguchi, expressing humility as you step inside. Observe a traditional demonstration of matcha preparation. Enjoy a bowl of freshly whisked matcha accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets. Spend a quiet moment in cultural conversation and personal reflection. Afterwards, take a guided walk through our family’s traditional Japanese house, shaped by my grandfather’s refined aesthetic sensibilities and attention to detail.

Options

Private Matcha Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Kyoto House

Reviews

5.00

4 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

A beautiful moment of Harmony and Tradition
angeloq137,
Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I was genuinely impressed by the quality and depth of this tea ceremony experience. The host welcomed me warmly in the waiting room, wearing a beautiful kimono, and guided me to the chashitsu while explaining each step with clarity and kindness. Inside the tea room, I received detailed and engaging explanations about every movement, utensil, and tradition of sadō. The insights into the room’s layout and decorations created a calm and elegant atmosphere that made everything even more memorable and meaningful. The wagashi was beautifully crafted, delicious, and carefully chosen for the season, as were the utensils. When the matcha was prepared, I could truly feel the harmony and mindfulness behind each gesture. Overall, it was an authentic and enriching cultural experience that I highly recommend. Even if, like me, you have never taken part in a tea ceremony before, it is a safe and welcoming place for everyone, where you can freely ask questions and interact with the host, who gently guides you through the deeper layers of Japanese spirit and culture.
Great experience!
jakobn349,
Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I had a wonderful experience participating in the tea ceremony. I thoroughly recommend this place to anyone looking to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Wonderful experience in an authentic tea room
珠光怜高,
Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I enjoyed a quiet, peaceful time in an authentic tea room. While preparing the tea, the host—dressed in a kimono—explained the meaning of the hanging scroll and shared many fascinating insights about the tea ceremony and other aspects of Japanese culture. Through this experience, I was able to connect more deeply with Japanese culture.
Big Recommendation!
rafaelmH832TU,
Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I had a truly wonderful experience taking part in this tea ceremony. He is incredibly friendly, welcoming, and patient, and he takes the time to explain every step in a way that feels natural and easy to follow. Nothing felt rushed at all. The atmosphere is calm, supportive, and respectful, which makes it perfect for people who have never experienced a tea ceremony before. You never feel afraid of making mistakes, and he encourages you to ask as many questions as you like. It’s a great opportunity to dive deeper into Japanese culture in an approachable and enjoyable way, especially if you're curious about the tradition but don’t know where to start. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a small group, it’s an experience that feels personal and meaningful. The matcha he served was exceptionally delicious, and the traditional sweet that accompanied it was amazing as well. Overall, it was a memorable and enriching experience, and I can highly recommend it to anyone looking to learn more about tea ceremony culture in a warm and welcoming setting.