• Statue of Izumo no Okuni - Located just outside Exit 5 of Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line), the Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni is a notable landmark.

A guide will be holding an orange signboard that reads “Magical Trip Tour.”

• Gion - The first stop offers an opportunity to explore the history and production of Japanese tea.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic district of Gion, with a visit to a renowned matcha shop.

• Kennin-ji Temple - Discover the centuries-old Kenninji Temple, a site rich in history.
• Kyoto Prefecture - Explore various craft shops.
• Kyoto Prefecture - Discover a secluded temple and garden.

Next, appreciate the artistry of ceramics at a tea bowl shop, where the raku teacup is highlighted. The guide will explain the unique character, history, and significance of each cup. From there, escape the bustling tourist paths of Kyoto and enter a serene hidden temple where time seems to slow down. In this tranquil setting, connect with simplicity, textures, natural materials, and thoughtful design—allowing your senses to embrace the stillness, air, and subtle beauty that embody Japanese tea philosophy.

• Tea Ceremony Chayu - Conclude the tour with a tea-making session in an authentic tea house!

Participate in a tea ceremony guided by a tea master! Drawing on the Wabi-Sabi insights gained during the city walk, experience a tea ceremony under the guidance of a tea master. Select a tea bowl based on the season and taste, savor Japanese sweets, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of matcha green tea and the tea ceremony.

• Kyoto Prefecture - The tour concludes at the tea experience locations.

• Tea ceremony experience with Matcha at a traditional Japanese house
• Photos taken during the tour
• 3-hour tour with an English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for 2 temples included

• Additional Food and Drinks

Explore the enchanting world of Japanese tea culture beyond just tasting matcha on this engaging cultural walking tour in Kyoto. Discover historic temples, artisan shops, and secluded Zen areas while delving into the philosophy, history, and aesthetics of the tea ceremony.

Start your journey at Kennin-ji Temple, the birthplace of matcha culture in Japan, where you’ll learn about tea’s influence on Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s traditions. Visit a specialty shop to see tea ceremony tools like bamboo whisks and raku teacups.

Then, enter a serene hidden Zen temple to experience Kyoto’s tranquil side, featuring moss gardens, stone paths, and the timeless beauty of Wabi-Sabi aesthetics. The tour concludes with an authentic tea ceremony, where you can savor a meticulously prepared bowl of matcha, guided by the philosophy of ichi-go ichi-e—“one chance, one encounter.”

Conveniently located near Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, this experience is a perfect addition to your Kyoto sightseeing itinerary.

• Out of respect for our other guests and to ensure the best tour for everyone, we must start the tour on time. You will not be able to join the tour, get a refund or reschedule if you are late for the tour and miss the group.
• The tour might be cancelled in case of unsuitable weather for safety reasons.
• You do not need to pay for the guide’s food and drinks.
• Please note that there might be other participants
• Japan’s climate has become more extreme, with summer highs of 40°C (110°F) and winter lows of -5°C (20°F). Please prepare accordingly for the tour.
• Free cancellation and free reschedule is available until 24h prior to the tour starting time.
• Tea ceremony experience can only accommodate those who are and older than 6 years old. You can bring children younger than that but one adult needs to be accompanying them outside the facility during the experience.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.