Temple Tea ceremony
An opportunity to take part in a traditional tea ceremony in a tea room located within a Kyoto temple.
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Location: Kyoto
- Capacity: 1–6 people
- From: On request
About This Experience
The roots of tea culture in Japan date back to 1191, when Zen master Eisai (1141–1215) brought tea seeds from Song dynasty China. Eisai, who introduced the Rinzai school of Zen to Japan, founded Kennin-ji—the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto in 1202. From the very beginning, tea was inextricably linked with monastic practice in Zen temples. Later, Eisai wrote “Kissa Yōjōki” (1211), the first Japanese book about tea, passing on to future generations the benefits and spiritual aspects of tea.
From the Kamakura to the Muromachi period, Rinzai Zen temples operating under the Gozan Jissatsu system became centers for the reception of continental culture, including Chinese poetry, monochrome painting, architecture, gardens, and tea. In the late Muromachi period, the focus shifted from the ornate Chinese style to a harmony of Japanese and Chinese aesthetics and simplicity, as advocated by Murata Jukō and continued by Takeno Jōō. In the Momoyama era, Sen no Rikyū perfected this in the form of “wabi-cha.” Thus, tea acquired a unique spirituality as a style rooted in Zen.
Tea bowls, scrolls, flower vases, and other objects are carefully selected by the host for each gathering, taking into account the season, the guests, and the history of each item. Guests do not simply observe, but seek to sense and unravel the hidden meaning of this subtle composition.
The tea ceremony is based on four principles—harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility—as well as the spirit of “ichigo ichie,” the awareness of the uniqueness of each encounter. The silence of movement, the sound of boiling water, and the atmosphere of the tea room gradually immerse participants in a special state of peace and concentration.
Highlights
- In the temple's tea room — A quiet moment shared by host and guest in a secluded tea room, far from the bustle of everyday life.
The tea ceremony takes place in the ryurei format—in a traditional Japanese tea house, where guests sit on low chairs at a special table. This style, now part of Japanese tea culture, allows for a deeper appreciation of the tea art’s atmosphere, preserving closeness to tradition and a unique sense of space.
The setting—a tea room, usually closed to the public. In this rare and intimate space, the aesthetics of Japanese tea drinking and the spirit of “ma”—the beauty of pause. - Combination of tea accessories — Scrolls, flowers, tea cups, teapot—
the host carefully selects each item according to the season, the guests, and the atmosphere of the gathering.
Every object in the tea room carries its own story and meaning, and in this tranquil space, Japanese aesthetics and the spirit of hospitality are subtly revealed. - Usucha (light matcha) — Light usucha tea is served with seasonal omogashi or higashi.
In the past, matcha was considered a "remedy" for Zen monks to balance mind and body, and the time spent leisurely enjoying a cup was meant for healing the body and cleansing the mind.
Options
Practical Information
- Dress code
- White tabi socks are required (provided upon request). Please refrain from using perfume and bright accessories.
- Booking
- Reservations are accepted no later than 7 days in advance.
Cancellations made less than 7 days prior are subject to a 100% charge. - Included in the price
- Matcha
Traditional sweets
Private use of an ordinarily closed tea room
Accompanied by a personal guide - Photography
- Photography is permitted with the host's permission.
Please refrain from using flash or taking photos during the tea ceremony.