Tea Ceremony Workshop in Tokyo by the Official Instructor

Must Do Experiences

• Whisk and prepare your own bowl of frothy matcha green tea under the guidance of a certified tea master.

• Savor a curated tasting of cherry-blossom tea, two types of matcha, and three traditional Japanese sweets.

• Practice the elegant etiquette of bowing, handling the tea bowl, and performing ceremonial movements.

• Explore the serene, authentic tatami-mat setting of Shizu Kokoro, a traditional house tucked away in Taito City.

Hidden Gems

• The venue is an actual traditional Japanese house called Shizu Kokoro, offering a much more intimate and authentic atmosphere than commercial tourist centers.

• Your instructor will share the deep philosophical roots of wabi-sabi and ichigo ichie, concepts rarely explained in standard tourist demonstrations.

• The cherry-blossom tea included in your tasting is a rare, delicate treat that beautifully contrasts with the robust, earthy flavors of the matcha.

What Makes it Special

• Unlike passive observation tours, this workshop is entirely hands-on, allowing you to actively participate in every step of the tea preparation.

• The experience is hosted in a genuine residential house just a short stroll from the iconic Kaminari Mon gate, blending cultural immersion with convenience.

• You are taught by an official, certified instructor who provides deep, personalized insights into centuries-old customs and mindfulness practices.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Morning sessions offer the most tranquil atmosphere and pair beautifully with a subsequent visit to the nearby Sensoji Temple before the crowds arrive. The experience is delightful year-round, but spring and autumn provide the most comfortable weather for walking through the historic Asakusa district to reach the venue.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the intricate details of the seasonal Japanese confections and the vibrant green of the whisked matcha against the traditional ceramics before tasting.

• Ask your instructor for permission before taking photos during the actual ceremonial movements, as maintaining a mindful and respectful atmosphere is paramount.

• Utilize the soft, natural light filtering through the traditional shoji paper screens to highlight the elegant textures of the tatami mats and tea utensils.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When receiving your tea bowl, it is customary to bow slightly and rotate the bowl twice clockwise before drinking to avoid sipping from its decorative front. Silence and mindful observation are highly valued during the preparation phase, so keep conversations gentle and focused on the instructor's demonstrations.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the spring cherry blossom season, the confections and tea selections often feature special sakura-themed designs and flavors to celebrate the blooming period.

• In autumn, the workshop highlights the changing leaves with seasonal wagashi sweets shaped like maple leaves and rich, roasted tea variations.

• New Year periods may include special ceremonial arrangements focusing on renewal, good fortune, and the first tea gathering of the year.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Be careful when handling the hot water and heated tea bowls, using the proper techniques demonstrated by your instructor to avoid burns.

• Take care when sitting on and rising from the tatami floor, especially if you have knee or back issues, and feel free to request a cushion or low chair if needed.

• Ensure your socks are clean and free of debris to maintain the hygiene and pristine condition of the traditional tatami mats.