Kyoto: Hands-On Sencha Tea Ceremony Experience

Photo of heartV2
Add to Wishlist
Share
Photo of img box all
Show all photos
Detail
Detail
Detail
Show all photos
Detail
+9
Photo of heartV2

Kyoto: Hands-On Sencha Tea Ceremony Experience

Photo of heartV2
Add to Wishlist
Share
Photo of img box all
Show all photos
Summary
Highlights
Experience Details
Experience Location
Photo of exp duration
Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Photo of exp guest
Number of Guests
1 - 8 guests
Photo of exp accessibility
Accessibility
Stroller Accessible
Photo of exp language
Language
Japanese, English, French, Italian
Photo of exp other
Other
Halal, Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescetarian, Wheelchair Accessible, Family-friendly, Solo Traveler, Wellness

Experience Kyoto’s serene Sencha Tea Ceremony with expert tea masters and craft your own gyokuro in a hands-on, immersive session.

Highlights

  • Witness a rare Sencha Tea Ceremony performed with mindful precision

  • Savor delicate gyokuro green tea and seasonal wagashi in a serene tearoom

  • Learn to brew gyokuro yourself in a hands-on workshop

  • Receive expert guidance from licensed tea masters fluent in multiple languages

  • Connect with Japanese tea culture through conversation and storytelling

Photo of group 14
For each guest that attends this experience, byFood will donate
10 meals

Experience Details

Step into a serene Kyoto tearoom and experience the traditional Sencha Tea Ceremony, a rare quintessential Japanese tradition. Your hosts share their knowledge and passion, guiding you through every step with expertise.


Your hosts bring deep knowledge and passion. Ute, a licensed tea master of the Obaku Baisa-ryu school, has studied Sencha for over seven years and shares its beauty and precision with care. Irene, an associate tea master from Italy, combines a warm personality with an extensive understanding of Japanese tea culture. Laure, a French tea sommelier and yoga instructor, brings refined sensory skills and a genuine love for tea. The hosts can do sessions in English, French, Italian, German, and Japanese, ensuring clear guidance for every guest.


The session begins with observing o-temae, the traditional tea preparation. With each movement, the careful placement of utensils and gentle handling of the tea leaves reflects the mindfulness at the heart of Japanese hospitality. The aroma of freshly brewed gyokuro, Japan’s prized green tea, fills the room, while you enjoy a quiet conversation. You'll enjoy the tea’s umami richness, delicate sweetness, and silky texture, paired with seasonal wagashi that add a mellow sensation and complementary flavor.


Next, you’ll brew gyokuro under the hosts’ guidance, learning the technique, focus, and cultural stories behind the ritual.


By the end, you’ll leave with more than tea; you’ll gain a calm, a deeper understanding of Sencha, and a meaningful connection with tea masters devoted to sharing the quiet beauty of Japanese tea culture.

What You Get

2-3 cups of gyokuro green tea
1 serving of seasonal wagashi sweets
Tea ceremony case/handmade tea cup (in exchange for review)
Transportation to and from the venue

Good To Know

  • Arrive 5 minutes early to settle in
  • Speak softly and silence mobile devices
  • Avoid strong perfumes or colognes
  • No prior tea knowledge required
  • All guests will be seated on chairs, not tatami mats

Meeting Point and Meeting Time

  • Meet your host in Honmachi, Higashiyama. More details and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking confirmation.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel your booking at least 24 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.

Get Directions

Activity Provider

Ute, Irene & Laure
SinceNov 14, 2025
Photo of faq question markFrequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?

Yes. No prior knowledge of Japanese tea is needed. Hosts guide every step in English, Italian, German, or Japanese.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

The tearoom is on the 1F and accessible, with seating on chairs rather than tatami mats.

Are food allergies accommodated?

Yes. Please inform us of any allergies when booking to ensure wagashi ingredients are suitable.

Can I take photos during the session?

Photos are allowed with the host’s permission, but please avoid flash or disrupting the ceremony.
You may also be interested in these experiences