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Kyoto Temple Tea Ceremony at Jotokuji

Kyoto, JapanAbout 1 hourGuided in English

Join a small tea ceremony inside a Buddhist temple and learn the calm rituals of preparing matcha. A peaceful, good-value way to try this tradition in Kyoto.

About 1 hourExplore at your own pace
Small groupKeeps the experience personal
EnglishLive guide or host
CancellationNon-refundable: tickets are issued for your chosen date and time

Highlights

  • Tea ceremony inside a working temple
  • Guidance from a tea teacher
  • Matcha with a traditional sweet
  • Prepare your own bowl of tea
  • Quiet, small-group setting

Full description

This tea ceremony takes place in the tea room of Jotokuji, a Buddhist temple in Kyoto. A tea teacher guides you through the ceremony step by step, from how to enter the room and receive the bowl to how the tea is whisked.

You taste matcha with a traditional sweet and have the chance to prepare a bowl yourself. The temple setting and small groups make it quieter than most tea experiences in the busier tourist areas.

Itinerary

  1. Welcome

    Arrive at the temple and enter the tea room.

  2. The ceremony

    Learn the etiquette as your teacher prepares tea.

  3. Your bowl

    Whisk your own matcha and enjoy it with a sweet.

Included

  • Guided tea ceremony
  • Matcha and a Japanese sweet
  • English explanation

Not included

  • Transport to the temple
  • Kimono hire
  • Temple donations

Meeting point

Jotokuji temple in Kyoto; the address and nearest station are included in your confirmation.The exact spot and your host's details arrive with your confirmation.

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Know before you go

  • Shoes are removed; clean socks are recommended.
  • Seating is on tatami; tell us if kneeling is difficult.
  • Please be quiet and respectful, as this is an active temple.
  • Please arrive 10 minutes early.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know anything beforehand?

No. The teacher explains everything as you go.

Is it suitable for children?

Calm older children are welcome; the ceremony requires sitting quietly for a while.

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More things to do in Kyoto

From USD 34 per adult
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