Experience the Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
If you are looking into experiencing a traditional chanoyu in Japan, opt for Kyoto. It’s a center of diverse Japanese culture. Besides, the city boasts one of the most famous regions for growing high-quality matcha – Uji.
Below are highly recommended places in Kyoto to delve into the authentic Japanese art of tea along with wearing kimono.
Jotoku-ji Temple
Those wishing to experience chanoyu in Kyoto within the Zen Buddhist temple grounds may consider the Ju-An Tea Ceremonies. The hostess, Masumi Kirihata, offers an unforgettable chanoyu in the Jotoku-ji Temple. You can book one via their website: www.teaceremonyjuan.com.
Daitoku-ji Temple
Daitoku-ji is a large complex of Zen Buddhism in Kyoto where tea and Japanese culture enthusiasts can get a glimpse into the way of tea. Tea ceremonies occur in one of the sub-temples of Daitoku-ji. Foreign visitors can book the cultural event online at Wabunka Experience (www.wabunka-experience.com). They even offer virtual chado lessons.
Near Kinkaku-ji Temple
Enjoy a tea ceremony activity after touring the Kinkaku-ji Temple or Golden Pavilion. Tea Ceremony Koto holds chanoyu in a private house near the temple. For more information and reservations, visit their website – www.teaceremony-kyoto.com/Koto.
Kyoto Tea Schools
Among the many reputable Japanese tea schools in Kyoto are Maikoya, Camellia, and Tondaya. Booking chanoyu with them promises lasting memories of charm and a secluded atmosphere.
Purchase Tea Ceremony Sets in Kyoto
Bikouen
Bikouen is a traditional Japanese tea house in Kyoto that caters to a chanoyu experience. It is also a place where you can buy tea ceremony utensils, matcha gift sets, and much more.
- Address: 235 Butsuguya-cho, Shimogo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8347
- Website: www.bikouen.com
The Tea Crane
Inspired by the Japanese tea tradition, Tyas Sosen, the founder of The Tea Crane, set up an educational platform dedicated to tea. Tea workshops and lessons are available by appointment in Kyoto. In addition, The Tea Crane features an online store that sells high-quality tea and teaware.
- Address: 424-2 Kasugacho, Kamigyoku, Kyoto 602-8023
- Website: www.the-tea-crane.com
Maiko Antique Kyoto
This vintage store in Kyoto is an excellent place for finding souvenirs and gifts to take home. It has various collectibles, including fine tea ceremony utensils.
- Address: 157 Komatsucho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0811
- Website: www.maiko-antiques.kyoto.mystrikingly.com
Umi Tea Sets
Although it is only an online retailer, Umi Tea Sets is worth mentioning. You can find almost anything there, from Japanese ceramic tea sets to clay, pottery wabi-sabi, black stone glazed, and even plum orchid and bamboo chrysanthemum tea tools.
- Website: umiteasets.com
Ippodo Tea
Ippodo Tea Kyoto Main Store, which opened in 1717, is within easy reach of the Imperial Palace grounds. Foreign customers are welcome to spend time in the adjacent chashitsu, try different types of green tea, and ask questions about matcha preparation before purchasing a tea ceremony set. They also have a store in Tokyo's Marunouchi District.
- Address: 52 Tokiwagi-cho, Nkagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-0915.
- Website: ippodotea.com
Kyoto Chaka Dougukan
Since March 2024, Kyoto Chaka Dougukan has stopped offering on-site sales and shifted to an e-shop business. Their website displays a wide selection of Japanese tableware and tea accessories. Although the site isn’t English-friendly, it is easy to navigate using the Google Translate function. There is no international shipping service, but the company can send items to any prefecture in Japan within 5 business days.
- Website: www.kyoto-zuiun.com
Chasanraku Tea Store
Chasanraku is an ideal spot for lunch and a traditional Japanese experience. Visitors can savor different types of green tea and enjoy matcha ice creams and cakes. They can then visit the shop to buy Japanese sweets, matcha, and tea utensils.
- Address: 7 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8384
- Website: chasanraku.co.jp
Horaido Tea Stall
Horaido Tea Stall sells a diverse range of teapots and accessories from Kyoto. You can buy high-quality green tea that can be blended on the spot. It’s another great place to purchase souvenirs and your first matcha tea set.
- Address: 295 Higashidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8043