Maiko Tea Ceremony
What is Maiko Tea Ceremony?
A special tea ceremony hosted by an authentic Maiko
This is a special experience course where an authentic “Maiko,” carrying on the traditions of Gion, Kyoto, makes a tea just in front of your eyes.
Her beautiful darari-no-obi sash, seasonal hanakanzashi (floral hair ornaments), and pristine white makeup. Witnessing the dignified temae (making a tea) of a Maiko — the flower of Gion — up close is a luxury unique to this place.
Savor a bowl of tea made by a heartful Maiko, and spend a moment that will stay with you for a lifetime in an elegant space that lets you forget everyday life.
About Maiko
Maiko are young women, typically up to around 20 years old, who are in training to become full-fledged geiko (geisha).
Their attire is even more glamorous than that of geiko, featuring brilliantly colored and patterned kimono, the long-hanging “darari-no-obi” sash, and tall wooden clogs known as “okobo,” about 10 cm in height.
Their beautiful traditional Japanese hairstyle, woven from their own natural hair, is adorned with seasonal hanakanzashi (floral hairpins). As they walk through Kyoto's hanamachi (geisha districts), their charming figures are instantly recognizable as Maiko.
Flow of Maiko tea ceremony experience
1. Attire
Choose your favorite kimono, and our staff will help you put it on. For female customers, we also offer hair styling to match your kimono.
2. Classroom
In the tea room, we will give an easy-to-understand explanation of the history of tea ceremony, basic etiquette, and how to make matcha. Learning about these things will make your experience even more meaningful.
3. Demonstration
In the silence of the tea room, watch the graceful movements of a Maiko making a tea up close. Each supple motion, the rustle of silk, and the fragrance of incense together create a truly special moment.
4. Making a tea
Try making tea by yourself using a chasen (tea whisk). The most important tip is to make it with all your heart, hoping that it will taste delicious. Our staff will give you detailed advice, so even if you are a beginner, you can rest assured.
5. Enjoying tea
The taste of tea you brew by yourself is sure to be exceptional. Please enjoy it slowly with beautiful tea confections made by a long-established Kyoto shop.
Tea and sweets
The tea and sweets served at THE TEA CEREMONY GION Orizuruya is
a selection of traditional Japanese sweets and teas from Kyoto that have been loved for many years.
Kofukudo
A long-established Japanese confectionery shop in Kyoto that opened in 1868 and has been in business for 156 years.
We offer seasonal tea confections.
Gion Narumiya
Since its founding in 1931, this Japanese confectionery shop has been committed to handmade products, using stone mills, which are now rare, to make mochi every day with all their heart.
THE TEA CEREMONY GION Orizuruya offers traditional Japanese sweets handmade by wagashi artisan at Gion Narumiya.
Maiko Tea Ceremony Experience Course / Price
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Information regarding use
If you are late for your appointment, we may not be able to provide the experience.