Traditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Kyoto, Japan
- 1 hour (approx.)
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
What's Included
- Matcha drink from local tea farm
- Japanese traditional sweets for tea ceremony selected by tea master
- Hand out recipe for enjoying Matcha in your daily life
- Guidance for making Matcha, and history by tea master
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Japan, 605-0802 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Yamatochō, １ 祇園田中屋ビル
Please come to the meeting point 5min before the experience starting time. The meeting point is located 5th floor of this building. Please come up to the meeting point with elevator.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of the session. Please note that if you are late, you will not be able to join the session once it has begun.
- Since matcha has caffeine, it is not recommended for children under the age of 5.
- This experience is held on in English.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Jennifer_K
Had the best experience. The ceremony was wonderful. Very informative and educational. The matcha was delicious.
Reviews
4.9
based on 174 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Steven_R, Jul 2026
Very educational and interesting. Our tea ceremony teacher shared lots of historic information. We learned a lot! A lovely experience for our family.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your excellent feedback.
It's wonderful that your experience was so profoundly educational and interesting. We are especially pleased that your tea ceremony instructor shared such a wealth of historical insights, and that your family gained so much knowledge. It clearly stood out as a lovely experience for everyone.
We will certainly convey your high praise directly to your tea ceremony teacher.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
Monica_S, Jul 2026
We had a great experience learning about the traditions of Matcha. It’s a beautiful experience and I was glad to witness the matcha ceremony.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We are genuinely pleased to receive your thoughtful feedback.
It's wonderful that you had such a great experience gaining insights into the traditions of Matcha. It's truly pleasing that it was such a beautiful occasion, and that you were glad to witness the matcha ceremony.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
avaser, Jun 2026
Katodo was knowledgeable and explained everything very well. We enjoyed the experience and would recommend it.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your excellent feedback.
It's wonderful that Katodo was so knowledgeable and explained everything with such clarity. We are especially pleased that you thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend it.
We will certainly convey your high praise directly to Katodo.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating discoveries.
Emily_B, Jun 2026
Our family really enjoyed learning about the Matcha traditions and tasting the traditional Matcha. Ken-ta was a great teacher.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your excellent feedback.
It's wonderful that your family genuinely enjoyed gaining insights into Matcha traditions and savoring the traditional Matcha. We are especially pleased that Ken-ta was such an outstanding teacher.
We will certainly convey your high praise directly to Ken-ta.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome your family back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
Megan_A, Jun 2026
Yuko was wonderful and so knowledgeable. She covered the history of Macha and the tea ceremony. Then she was patient with us as she walked us through making our own Macha.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your exceptional feedback.
It's wonderful that Yuko was so magnificent and profoundly knowledgeable! She clearly provided a comprehensive overview of the history of Matcha and the tea ceremony. We are especially pleased that she demonstrated such patience while guiding you through the process of preparing your own Matcha.
We will certainly convey your high praise directly to Yuko.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
Simone_O, Jun 2026
Great information and the ability to sit rather than kneel. Showing the way of the ceremony and explaining the 'why' of the different types of ceremony was very informative. Thankyou
Julie_M, Jun 2026
Our tea master, Kenta, was excellent. I am not typically a matcha drinker, but the tea we made was delicious. We enjoyed learning about the history and process of matcha tea making. Highly recommend.
Lloyd_D, Jun 2026
Kento, our host, was great. He was very knowledgeable, had a great manner about him, and spoke fantastic English. He clearly explained the tea ceremony process, as a good teacher does, and made the session very special. We sat on stools, so didn’t have to kneel for an hour (as he did!). 1 hr was the perfect length of time. The matcha was great and thankfully we didn’t have to dress up as fake Japanese!
Gregory_A, Jun 2026
This was the best tea ceremony. Yuko was so welcoming and knowledgeable while also engaging all participants in a personal way. I learned about the history of tea in Japan and we each made our own matcha.
Rebecca_R, May 2026
This was a lovely tea ceremony educating us on the tradition of matcha in Japan. We learned a short history of matcha and were able to watch the ceremonial movements of making the matcha as well as try ourselves. Toyoko was a very passionate, kind teacher.
lisa_c, May 2026
it was informative, peaceful, and an all around great way to learn about tea ceremonies. Ken really new his craft.
Sandra_P, May 2026
We had an amazing experience at this tea ceremony. We learnt a lot and also made and drank our own tea with traditional sweets. It was extremely interesting. Highly recommended.
Meenal_V, May 2026
What a wonderful experience it was to attend this experience and learn so much! Totally worth the visit. Highly recommend the experience.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent experience.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that this was such a truly magnificent encounter, and that you gained a wealth of insights! It was evidently unequivocally worthwhile. Your fervent recommendation for the experience truly resonates with us.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Nader_R, May 2026
Great accessible way to experience a tea ceremony for those unable to sit on the floor for a prolonged time. Ryo was an excellent tea master and helped itnroduce us to the history and tradition in a great way
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your excellent feedback.
It's wonderful that your experience provided such an excellent and accessible avenue to participate in a tea ceremony, especially for those unable to sit for extended periods. We are especially pleased that Ryo was an outstanding tea master, introducing you to the rich history and traditions in a truly engaging manner.
We will certainly convey your high praise directly to Ryo.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating experiences.
Lucas_I, May 2026
The experience was absolutely lovely. Yuko was the most wonderful and kind tea master. she shared the rich history of matcha, demonstrated the traditional ritual, and taught us the proper techniques. It was an extraordinary and deeply meaningful experience. It felt like such a privilege to connect with Japanese culture in this way. we even found ourselves getting a little emotional by the end.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We are truly delighted to receive your exceptional feedback.
It's wonderful that your experience was so incredibly lovely! We are especially pleased that Yuko, your tea master, was so remarkably wonderful and kind. Her ability to share the rich history of matcha, demonstrate the traditional ritual, and teach proper techniques clearly made for an extraordinary and profoundly meaningful experience. Feeling such a privilege to connect with Japanese culture in this manner, and even experiencing emotional resonance by the conclusion, is truly heartwarming.
We will certainly convey your exceptional commendation directly to Yuko.
We are deeply appreciative of you sharing your memorable journey. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
MariaAvelina_M, May 2026
Beautiful experience. Ideal for beginners, to get to understand the tea ceremony. Casual setting for foreigners
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We are genuinely pleased to receive your thoughtful feedback.
It's wonderful that your experience was so serene and tranquil. We are especially pleased that it provided an ideal introduction for newcomers to comprehend the nuances of the tea ceremony, all within a relaxed setting tailored for international visitors.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating experiences.
SuzyM_W, May 2026
If you come to Japan you have to attend a traditional tea ceremony and learn how to make Matcha tea. I attended several ones while in Japan but I like this one particularly.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We are genuinely pleased to receive your thoughtful feedback.
It's wonderful that you recognize the profound significance of attending a traditional tea ceremony and learning to prepare matcha tea while in Japan. We are particularly pleased to learn that, among several you attended, this specific experience resonated most deeply with you.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your insights. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Japan for future captivating cultural immersions.
Abbie_O, Apr 2026
A wonderful, peaceful and informative tea ceremony. Ruo was a fantastic tea ceremony master. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that this was a truly wonderful, serene, and insightful encounter! Ruo was clearly a fantastic tea ceremony master. You clearly thoroughly savored the entire experience.
Your outstanding comments will certainly be shared with Ruo; she will be absolutely thrilled to know the profound impact she had on your cherished day.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Amy_B, Apr 2026
We really enjoyed the tea ceremony. It was very interesting to learn about the ceremony. I’ve never been a huge fan of matcha, but I probably didn’t have good matcha and it most likely wasn’t made right. I really enjoyed the matcha and treats that we had
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We profoundly appreciate your enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that you profoundly savored the experience, and that gaining insights into the ceremony was exceptionally captivating! It is especially pleasing to hear that you genuinely enjoyed the matcha and delectable confections you sampled, particularly since you hadn't been a significant enthusiast before – perhaps due to less optimal previous experiences.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable culinary adventure on your next visit to Japan.
PreethaChatterjee, Apr 2026
We enjoyed learning about the history of the tea ceremony and getting to make matcha tea ourselves. The tea master Ruo kept us engaged and helped us in getting our technique right while demonstrating first herself.
Response from Host, May 2026
We are genuinely pleased to receive your thoughtful comments.
It's wonderful to learn that you found the historical insights into the tea ceremony so enriching, and that the hands-on opportunity to prepare your own matcha was a highlight. We are especially delighted that Ruo, our tea master, maintained such an engaging atmosphere throughout and provided excellent guidance to perfect your technique after her own demonstration.
We will certainly convey your kind words directly to Ruo.
Your valuable insights are greatly appreciated. We sincerely hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Japan for another captivating experience.
LAILAH_M, Apr 2026
Akemi was a wonderful host! Very friendly and informative. You will learn the history and tradition of tea making in Japan.
Response from Host, May 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that Akemi was such a wonderful host, and that this experience comes with your unequivocal 100% recommendation! She was clearly remarkably amiable and extensively insightful. You undoubtedly gained a comprehensive understanding of the heritage and customs of tea preparation in Japan.
Your outstanding comments will certainly be shared with Akemi; she will be absolutely thrilled to know the profound impact she had on your cherished day.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Edmond_W, Apr 2026
The experience was good. We learned about green tea ceremony with matcha and how to prepare it on our own.
Response from Host, May 2026
We profoundly appreciate your positive feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that the experience was excellent! You clearly gained valuable insights into the green tea ceremony, including how to meticulously prepare matcha independently.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Mark_B, Apr 2026
This was a very informative experience and I learned the significance of tea ceremonies in the Japanese culture. Mei led our class and she was so precise with every movement. She mentioned how this was one of the simplest ways to perform a tea ceremony. I can’t imagine how much more complicated it can get.
Response from Host, May 2026
We profoundly appreciate your enthusiastic feedback on your recent family tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that this was a very insightful experience, and that you gained such a profound understanding of the cultural significance of tea ceremonies in Japanese customs! Mei, who led your session, was clearly remarkably precise with every single movement. It is indeed fascinating to consider the depth of complexity that the full ceremony can entail.
Your excellent comments will certainly be shared with Mei; she will be absolutely thrilled to know the profound impact she had on your cherished day.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Emily_L, Apr 2026
We had such a wonderful time! It was so interesting to learn about the history behind tea ceremonies, watch the ceremony, and learn how to make matcha.
Response from Host, May 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that this was truly the best, and that you had such a wonderful time! It was clearly so captivating to delve into the rich heritage of tea ceremonies, observe the intricate ritual, and gain the knowledge of how to prepare matcha.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Arun_S, Apr 2026
It is totally waste of time.. there is more of marketing and nothing about the tradition of japan tea.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you very much for your feedback.
At our facility, we place great importance on conveying the true depth of Japanese traditional culture, based on the spirit of Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku (Harmony, Respect, Purity and Tranquillity), which lies at the heart of the tea ceremony. Our experience is carefully designed to respect the historical background and each traditional movement. For this reason, we have been supported by guests from around the world who sincerely wish to experience the authentic Japanese tea ceremony.
We believe that the beauty of a tea ceremony is created together by both the host and the guests through mutual respect and a quiet focus. For this reason, we kindly ask all guests to follow the traditional etiquette—such as remaining seated and maintaining a serene atmosphere—so that everyone can fully immerse themselves in the experience. It was unfortunate that our tea master felt the demonstration could not proceed in its intended form due to the atmosphere during your session.
We understand that expectations of cultural experiences can vary from person to person. However, we will continue to preserve the essence of Japanese tradition, ensuring that the true spirit of the tea ceremony is properly conveyed.
Elizabeth_D, Apr 2026
Ruo was great! We have a much better understanding of the history and culture behind tea ceremonies. Such a great experience.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We profoundly appreciate your enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that Ruo was truly outstanding, and that you gained such profound insights into the origins and traditions behind the Way of Tea! The entire experience was clearly so delightful.
Your excellent comments will certainly be shared with Ruo; she will be absolutely thrilled to know the profound impact she had on your cherished day.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Karen_B, Apr 2026
This was such a lovely experience, we learned so much about the ceremony. I would make it to this ceremony if you are in Kyoto.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that this was such a truly delightful experience, and that you gained significant insights into the intricate rituals! Your fervent recommendation to partake in this ceremony if you are in Kyoto truly resonates with us.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Rebecca_M, Mar 2026
We had a great time during our tea ceremony experience. Mai was just lovely and gave a brief history of the matcha tradition in Japan. She was very engaging and gave a good demonstration of the tea ceremony for springtime . We got to make our own matcha which was nice. If you are looking for very traditional where you sit on the floor and have all the pomp and circumstance, this isn’t it. This is the condensed version for westerners!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We profoundly appreciate your thoughtful feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is genuinely rewarding to learn you had a delightful, interactive experience. Mai was clearly amiable, sharing valuable insights into matcha's heritage. Her captivating seasonal demonstration and the chance to craft your own matcha truly resonated. We value your understanding that this offers an accessible introduction, distinct from a full ceremonial observance.
Your excellent comments will certainly be shared with Mai; she will be absolutely thrilled by the profound impact she had.
We deeply appreciate you sharing your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Diana_F, Mar 2026
We loved this tea ceremony! It was great learning about the rituals and steps involved in traditional matcha preparation and drinking. It definitely made us appreciate this drink even more. The sweets were also delicious, and everyone was super nice. Thank you for the lovely time!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We profoundly appreciate your exceptionally enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that you truly cherished this beautiful tea ceremony! We are especially pleased that gaining insights into the rituals and intricate steps of traditional matcha preparation and consumption profoundly deepened your appreciation for the beverage. The delectable sweets and the remarkable amiability of everyone clearly enhanced your lovely time.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
Rosa_P, Mar 2026
Mai was perfect in every aspect of the tea ceremony. She is very kind and answered all our questions. Great experience
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We profoundly appreciate your enthusiastic feedback on your recent tea ceremony.
It is incredibly rewarding to learn that Mai was absolutely perfect in every aspect of the experience! We are especially pleased that she is very amiable and thoughtfully addressed all your inquiries. Her dedication clearly made this an excellent and memorable encounter.
Your outstanding comments will certainly be shared with Mai; she will be absolutely thrilled to know the profound impact she had on your cherished day.
We are deeply appreciative of you taking the time to share your perceptions. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable adventure on your next visit to Japan.
From $25.19
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Traditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto
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