Traditional Tea Ceremony wearing a Kimono in Kyoto MAIKOYA

• Learn about Japanese tea ceremony traditions firsthand

• Pose for photos while wearing a traditional kimono

• Small-group experience with a maximum of eight participants

In this workshop, a qualified instructor will walk you through step by step of traditional tea ceremony.  This is a ritual-like activity where ceremonial tea is prepared and presented to promote well-being, mindfulness and harmony. It is also called the Way of the Tea. The tea itself is a powdered green tea and is called Matcha.  The activity involves • Traditional tea ceremony led by a tea master • Drinking green tea and eating Japanese sweets   • Wearing a Kimono (Yukata in the summer season)The Japanese tea ceremony has many names in Japanese: Chanoyu, sado or ocha. It has a long history of a thousand years and has ties to the tea traders in China. Japanese monks first brought back tea leaves during the Chinese Tang dynasty (618 – 907 AD) and only used them in their temples for religious services. A priest called Myoan Eisai spread the belief that green tea could be used for medicine and by drinking it regularly you were ensured good health. Samurai in particular followed this practice and spread its popularity. Later, another priest called Murata Shukou, called the father of the tea ceremony, added more significance and rituals by making powdered tea so others could enjoy it. His focus on aesthetics became well known and heavily influences the tea ceremony that we know today. Learning about a country through cultural workshops and activities will give you a better understanding of our intricate history, valued social principals and holistic way of life. By learning about Japan and its people, you will be immersed in different perspectives and approaches that are unique to this country. Maikoya offers you opportunities to understand this culture through local instructors and guides. There is no better way to learn about a new place from the viewpoints of those who grew up and live in this amazing country. What better way to spend a day than learning a traditional, beautiful new activity with a knowledgeable tutor in a picturesque setting? You wouldn’t find friendlier people to help you experience Japan in all its splendor. Please let us know if you have any food allergies, Halal, vegan or vegetarian preferences.

• Kimono costume

• Green tea

• Utensils

• Hairstyling (simple style)

• Snacks

• Transportation

• Hotel pickup and drop-off