Tea Ceremony
What is tea ceremony?
A bowl of tea filled with the essence of Kyoto
The tea ceremony (chanoyu) is a traditional Japanese culture in which guests enjoy matcha tea made by the host and seasonal sweets, while appreciating the space itself, which is decorated with hanging scrolls and tea flowers.
The essence lies in the host's dedication to providing hospitality that allows customers to truly enjoy themselves.
At we venue, we offer a special Japanese experience which customers can make matcha themselves and enjoy the deliciousness and depth of flavor of a bowl of tea they have made themselves.
History of tea ceremony
The culture of tea began when the monks Saicho and Kukai brought it back from China during the Heian ira.
In the Kamakura ira, Zen Master Eisai introduced matcha to Japan along with the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.
Initially part of Zen training, it gradually developed into tea ceremonies where people gathered, and as “chanoyu,” with its emphasis on utensils and etiquette, it began to take shape as a unique Japanese cultural tradition.
The term “tea ceremony” became established during the Edo ira.
Until the middle of the Edo ira, it was enjoyed only by certain classes, such as feudal lords and wealthy merchants, but gradually spread to the townspeople. Since the Meiji ira, it has become popular among people of all classes as a sign of rich culture and refinement.
The spirit of tea ceremony, which involves thinking of others and entertaining them with sincerity, can be said to be the very essence of modern Japanese hospitality.
Flow of 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
First, watch the master perform a beautiful, authentic tea ceremony up close. The silence that fills the tea room and the dignified movements will sharpen your senses.
4. Preparing tea
Try making tea 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 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.
Tea ceremony experience course / Price
here
Information regarding use
If you are late for your appointment, we may not be able to provide the experience.