Japanese Tea and Zen: 45-Minute Private Tea Ceremony and Tasting in Kyoto

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Japanese Tea and Zen: 45-Minute Private Tea Ceremony and Tasting in Kyoto

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US$50.79
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US$45.71
per guest
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Free cancellation (48 hours notice)
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For each guest that attends this experience, byFood will donate
10 meals
Summary
Highlights
Experience Details
Experience Location
Reviews
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Duration
1 hour
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Number of Guests
1 - 13 guests
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Language
English
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Other
Family-friendly, Wear kimono, Solo Traveler, Wellness, Private Experience

Join this professionally-led private tea ceremony in Kyoto for an introduction to Japanese tea culture. Includes a tea ceremony, tea-making experience, along with high-quality tea and sweets.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a private tea experience

  • Learn the history and culture of Japanese tea

  • Study with an instructor from a leading tea ceremony school

  • Experience a refined tea ceremony, tasting, and brewing session

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For each guest that attends this experience, byFood will donate
10 meals

Experience Details

Step back to the days of the samurai and experience the elegance of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony! Your passionate host, Rie, will guide you as you try two types of powdered green tea, accompanied by fresh sweets and dried traditional treats from renowned Kyoto shops. You can even don a kimono to add a touch of extravagance!


Born and raised in Kyoto, Rie found solace in the tea room, eventually becoming an expert in the art of the Japanese tea ceremony. As a 2nd-degree instructor at Urasenke, one of the three leading tea ceremony schools, and a certified Master of Wearing Kimonos, she brings a wealth of knowledge and authenticity to the experience. In 2015, Rie founded her own tea ceremony experience business to share the authentic beauty of her culture with international visitors.


Rooted in Zen Buddhism and celebrated in Kyoto, the ceremonial art of preparing matcha, a powdered green tea, will captivate your senses. Every gesture carries profound meaning, and mindfulness is at its core. Not only will you get the opportunity to experience making a light tea, but you'll also get the chance to witness the making of a thicker, more ritualistic tea. Since this is a private session, feel free to take as many photos as you'd like.


Experience the captivating tea ceremony, where ancient traditions come alive! With Rie as your expert guide, you'll soak in unforgettable moments and fall in love with this exquisite Japanese art.

What You Get

Tea ceremony experience
Tea-making experience
Japanese sweets (wagashi)
Transportation to and from the location
Hair styling service

Good To Know

  • The experience lasts around 45 minutes
  • If you choose the kimono option, please arrive 20 minutes early
  • Late arrivals for the kimono option will not be able to wear the kimono, and no refund will be given
  • Kimono is worn only during the tea ceremony
  • Hair styling is not included with the kimono option
  • Children aged 0–4 can join Private Classes for free (no sweets and tea)

Meeting Point and Meeting Time

  • Please meet your host near Kinkakuji-michi city bus stop. More details and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel your booking at least 48 hours before the experience start time to receive a full refund.

Read more

Experience Location

Featuring beautiful landscapes from mountain to sea, Kyoto Prefecture conveys traditional Japanese culture through its architecture and gardens, art and artisanal crafts, and delicious local cuisine made from regional produce.

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Activity Provider

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Rie Kuranaka
SinceAug 02, 2023
Total reviews1
5.0
Reviews
5.0
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based on 1 reviews
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(byFood)
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Russell Levine
October 22, 2025

This was a wonderful experience! Learned the history and culture of tea in Japan and how to make our own matcha. Definitely recommend!

Photo of faq question markFrequently Asked Questions

What does the private tea ceremony include?

This private session includes a guided tea ceremony, hands-on tea-making, and the tasting of two types of matcha paired with traditional Japanese sweets. A kimono option is available with select packages.

Who will lead the tea ceremony?

The experience is led by Rie, a Kyoto-born tea practitioner and 2nd Degree Instructor at Urasenke, one of Japan’s leading tea ceremony schools. She guides the session in a calm, welcoming way, sharing cultural context throughout.

How long does the experience last, and when should I arrive?

The tea ceremony lasts about 45 minutes. Guests who choose the kimono option should arrive 20 minutes early. Late arrivals for the kimono option cannot be accommodated, and refunds are not available.

Can children join this experience?

Yes. Children aged 0–4 may join private sessions free of charge. Tea and sweets are not provided for young children.
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