Kyoto Ninenzaka Machiya Tea Ceremony with Table Seating

Enjoy a seated tea ceremony
in a 150-year-old Ninenzaka machiya

Experience the tea ceremony seated at a table and chairs in a traditional machiya in Ninenzaka, built about 150 years ago. Ryurei is a formal style developed in Kyoto about 150 years ago and is still rare in Kyoto tea rooms today. A family that has practiced traditional arts such as tea ceremony and calligraphy for generations hosts in English, with an interpreter present. The quiet tea room lets you focus fully on the experience.

Learn the history, utensils, and etiquette of tea

Learn about the history and cultural significance of the tea ceremony and its deep connection with Zen practice, as well as how the utensils are used and cared for. After watching a demonstration of graceful movements and seasonal hospitality, practice proper etiquette and tea-making techniques yourself. You will also receive an original booklet about the tea ceremony.

Whisk Uji matcha and enjoy it with wagashi

Prepare premium Uji matcha, sourced directly from a tea-farming family that has grown tea since the Bunsei era (1818-1831), using traditional utensils. Enjoy two bowls of matcha with seasonal wagashi specially ordered from a long-established Kyoto confectioner, followed by a Q&A session.

※ As an old machiya, the rooms are small with low ceilings, and the stairs may feel steep.