Tea Ceremony in a Century-Old Japanese Town House

Step into a century-old townhouse in Beppu and enter a world of quiet elegance and tradition. The tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and subtle fragrance of fresh greenery set the tone for a calming, hands-on tea ceremony. Your host, a professional in Japanese culinary arts and a popular cooking YouTuber, brings both expertise and warmth to the session. Dressed in a kimono, they guide you through the precise etiquette of tea preparation, explaining each movement and its cultural significance. You will see how matcha green tea is carefully sifted, whisked, and poured, appreciating the delicate rhythm and attention required to achieve the perfect froth. With gentle guidance, you will also have the opportunity to whisk your own matcha and taste it alongside a traditional Japanese sweet designed to complement the tea’s natural bitterness. An English-speaking interpreter is present to ensure smooth communication, allowing you to focus fully on the practice and enjoy the serene environment. Throughout the session, the combination of soft natural light, the faint aroma of tea, and the tactile experience of tatami mats creates a quiet, reflective moment. This intimate space allows you to understand not just the techniques, but also the thoughtful gestures, patience, and mindfulness that make the tea ceremony an enduring symbol of Japanese culture.