Table-Style Tea Ceremony at a 100-Year-Old Machiya in Kyoto

Step into a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya and experience Japanese tea culture surrounded by history. From a warm welcome at the door to the tea ceremony, discover the traditions and everyday details that make Kyoto special. When you arrive, Hiromi and her staff will give you a warm welcome. Before the tea ceremony, learn how the 100-year-old machiya was built and explore its unique layout, historical records, and old photographs. With so much of its history preserved, the house feels like a small window into Kyoto's past. A kimono option is also available. Hiromi's family owns a gofukuya shop specializing in traditional Japanese clothing, with beautiful silk kimonos featuring classic designs and intricate details. Kimono are available for guests of all ages, including children and infants. The tea ceremony follows the modern ryu-rei style, with table-and-chair seating for a comfortable experience. Begin by tasting premium matcha from an award-winning tea farm in Uji, one of Japan's most celebrated tea-producing regions. Then, learn to prepare your own bowl of rich, frothy matcha using authentic tea utensils. With guidance from your host, discover the techniques and etiquette behind this centuries-old tradition. The tea ceremony is about more than preparing and drinking tea. It is also a way to experience Japanese hospitality and traditional arts. Depending on the season, the experience may include calligraphy, kodo, the art of incense, or chabana, seasonal flower arrangements. After the ceremony, head to the garden to take photos with traditional Japanese props, including umbrellas, folding fans, and a katana. Located in Fushimi in southern Kyoto, the machiya offers a peaceful setting away from the busiest tourist areas. It is also convenient for exploring nearby attractions such as Fushimi Inari Shrine and Uji, making this a relaxed way to experience Kyoto's tea culture, history, and traditional arts with a local host.