If you're planning a trip to Japan, experiencing a traditional Kyoto tea ceremony is a must. This centuries-old ritual offers a deep dive into Japanese culture, where guests are invited to appreciate not only the taste of matcha but also the aesthetics, etiquette, and seasonal elements surrounding the ceremony.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Kyoto has many tea ceremony venues to choose from. Here are five of the best tea ceremony experiences in Kyoto you should consider in 2025.
The Japanese tea ceremony (茶道, sadō) is more than just drinking green tea—it's an art form. Originating in the 9th century, it has evolved into a deeply spiritual practice involving precise movements, mindfulness, and appreciation of the moment.
During a tea ceremony, guests enjoy seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets), watch the host prepare matcha (powdered green tea), and learn basic tea-making etiquette from a trained instructor.
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is the perfect place to explore this tradition.
1Camellia – Enjoy a Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Camellia
Photo by @_apple_lemonade
If you're looking for a truly authentic Kyoto tea ceremony experience, Camellia is one of the top choices for visitors seeking beauty, tradition, and peaceful surroundings. With two distinct locations—each with its own charm—Camellia offers a memorable cultural encounter for all ages.
Camellia Flower Teahouse (East Kyoto)
Located in the charming Ninenzaka area of Higashiyama, this teahouse offers an intimate tea experience near some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
Situated in the preserved streets of Ninenzaka, a historic Kyoto neighborhood
Walking distance from Kiyomizu-dera, Kodai-ji, Chion-in, and Yasaka Shrine
Easy access to Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district
Optional kimono rental from the on-site studio
Quiet, private setting down a secluded alley (reservation required for entry)
Not affected by Gion’s tourist restrictions (as of April 2025)
Camellia Garden Teahouse (West Kyoto)
This teahouse is nestled in a beautifully preserved 100-year-old house with serene gardens, just steps away from the famous Ryoan-ji Zen temple.
1-minute walk from Ryoan-ji, home of the world’s most famous Zen rock garden
Surrounded by peaceful Japanese gardens
Held inside a traditional wooden house with over a century of history
Operated in partnership with the city to help preserve cultural heritage
One of Kyoto’s most scenic tea ceremony settings
fee
time
experience
Shared Tea Ceremony
27.08$ per person
16.93$ for children 7-12 (children 6 and under are free)
Kimono Rental +4 0.62$ per person
45 minutes
Tea ceremony
Private Tea Ceremony
54.16$ per person
101.55$for a 1 person Private Tea Ceremony
Kimono Rental + 40.62$ per person
45 minutes
Tea ceremony
Private Tea Ceremony
81.24$ per person
135.41 $ for a 1 person Private Tea Ceremony
Kimono rental is not available at this location.
2Maikoya – Award-Winning Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono Option
Kimono Tea Ceremony Kyoto MAIKOYA
If you're searching for an authentic and highly rated Kyoto tea ceremony, Kyoto Maikoya is one of the best choices available.
Maikoya is the only tea ceremony venue in Kyoto that has won this prestigious award five years in a row. This recognition reflects its outstanding hospitality, cultural authenticity, and overall guest satisfaction.
Highlights of Kyoto Maikoya
Located in both the historic Gion district and downtown Kyoto, making it easily accessible.
Choose between a standard tea ceremony ($22 / 45 minutes) or a kimono tea ceremony ($48) — an immersive experience that includes dressing in a traditional Japanese kimono.
Hourly sessions from 9 AM to 5 PM in the downtown location.
The Geisha tea ceremony is a rare cultural gem, held once daily.
Seated options are available for those who prefer chairs over kneeling on tatami mats.
Set inside two beautifully preserved traditional townhouses, both featuring serene Japanese gardens perfect for photos and cultural reflection.
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Kyoto or a returning fan of Japanese traditions, you can enjoy an unforgettable Kyoto tea ceremony experience that blends comfort, history, and elegance.
It's perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone looking to connect with Japan’s timeless culture.
fee
time
experience
Kimono + Tea Ceremony
42.65 $ per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
90 minutes
Tea Ceremony, wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets
PRIVATE Kimono Tea Ceremony
73.12 $ per person
*The above is the unit price for 4 people. The fee for 4 people or fewer is 406.22 $ per group.
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
90 minutes
Tea Ceremony, Wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets
Japanese Sweets Making + Kimono + Tea Ceremony
73.12 $ per person
*at GION KIYOMIZU
120 minutes
Sweets Making, Tea Ceremony, wearing a kimono,
Kimono Tea Ceremony for Kids (ages 7-12) and Families
42.65 $ per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue. If you have a child under 7 in your party, you can not make the reservation for this experience.
*at NISHIKI
90-120 minutes
wearing a kimono, Japanese sweets, Tea Ceremony
Geisha or Maiko Tea Ceremony & Show
79.21 $ per person
*Children under 7 can not enter the tea ceremony venue.
*at GION KIYOMIZU
45 minutes
Geisha Performance, a Tea ceremony hosted by a real Kyoto geisha
3KOTO – Discover an Intimate Tea Ceremony in Kyoto’s Quiet Neighborhood
KOTO
Photo by@tarahey_
For those looking to escape the crowds and discover a quieter side of Kyoto, KOTO offers a peaceful and deeply personal tea ceremony experience. Located in a residential area near the Philosopher’s Path, this venue specializes in private or small-group sessions that feel more like cultural exchanges than performances.
Here, you won’t just observe — you’ll participate. Whether you're whisking your own matcha or learning the meaning behind each gesture, every moment feels thoughtful and authentic.
Highlights of KOTO
Quiet, authentic setting: Tucked away from tourist-heavy zones, KOTO provides a calm, residential backdrop ideal for deeper cultural immersion.
Private and small-group focus: Most sessions are one-on-one or limited to just a few guests, allowing for more personal interaction with the host.
Experienced instructors: The tea masters here speak English and are passionate about sharing the spirit of tea, not just the motions.
Flexible options: Choose between a traditional tatami-style setting or a seated session if kneeling is difficult. Kimono rentals are also available upon request.
Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group seeking a more intimate tea encounter, KOTO offers a serene and memorable experience that captures the heart of Kyoto’s traditions—without the tourist buzz.
fee
time
experience
Shared tea ceremony
20.31 $ per person ~
*Children under 13 years old 12.19 $ /person
4Bikouen – Try a Matcha Tea Ceremony in a Historic Teahouse
Bikouen
Photo By@beggarsintummy
Experience a unique Kyoto tea ceremony at Bikouen, the only place in Kyoto offering a samurai-style ceremony in a historic tea house near the UNESCO World Heritage site Nishi Honganji.
Founded in 1872, Bikouen is known for its premium Uji matcha and green teas, also available in their retail shop with traditional teaware.
Led by a bilingual hostess fluent in English and Chinese, guests enjoy an immersive and peaceful tea ceremony experience.
Perfect for both first-time visitors and tea enthusiasts, Bikouen offers an elegant cultural experience in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
Highlights of Bikouen
Kyoto’s only tea house offering a samurai-style tea ceremony
Located next to UNESCO World Heritage site Nishi Honganji
Established in 1872, famous for premium Uji matcha and green tea
On-site shop with a variety of teas and traditional teaware
Bilingual Madam Hostess fluent in English and Chinese
Experience authentic Japanese tea culture in a historic setting with personalized guidance.
fee
time
experience
Samurai Spirit tea ceremony
24.37 $ per person ~
*minimum 2 guests max. 30 guests
50 minutes
Tea Ceremony, wagashi
Koicha and usucha formal traditional tea ceremony
27.08 $ per person~
*minimum 2 guests max. 30 guests
70 minutes
Tea Ceremony, wagashi
Making your own Matcha
30 guests 8.80 $ per person ~
*minimum 2 guests max.
25 minutes
Tea Ceremony, wagashi (without Demonstration by tea master with thick tea served)
Chaji Experience (Full-length tea ceremony with Shojin ryori, a kind of cuisine prevalent in temples)
101.55 $ per person ~
*minimum 3 guests max. 16 guests
5Kyoto Nagomi – Join a Friendly and Authentic Tea Ceremony
Kyoto Nagomi
Photo by @ievaslyfe
Nagomi is a beautiful Kyoto tea ceremony room located in the historic Kanda Bamboo Shop, over 100 years old, in the scenic Ninenzaka district.
Led by bilingual instructors fluent in English and Japanese, guests can enjoy an authentic, hands-on tea ceremony, including whisking their own Matcha.
The ceremony uses premium Matcha from Gion Tsujiri, a renowned Kyoto tea producer with over 150 years of history, known for its smooth, non-bitter flavor.
Pure spring water from Mount Fuji is used to prepare the tea, ensuring a fresh and authentic taste.
Nagomi offers a memorable, immersive experience ideal for anyone seeking a genuine Kyoto tea ceremony.
Highlights of Nagomi
Authentic Kyoto tea ceremony held in a historic tea room over 100 years old
Located in the scenic and famous Ninenzaka district, perfect for Kyoto sightseeing
Guided by bilingual instructors fluent in English and Japanese
Hands-on experience: guests can whisk their own premium Matcha
Uses high-quality Matcha from Gion Tsujiri, a Kyoto tea producer with over 150 years of history
Prepared with pure spring water sourced from Mount Fuji, enhancing the tea’s flavor
Nagomi offers a truly immersive cultural experience, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable Kyoto tea ceremony.
fee
time
experience
Shared Plan
22.34 $ per person
45 minutes
Tea Ceremony, Japanese sweets
Private Plan
101.55 $ 2 people
*minimum 2 guests max. 30 guests
45 minutes
Tea Ceremony, Japanese sweets, Observe a tea ceremony demonstration
Participating in a Kyoto tea ceremony is a unique cultural experience that follows specific traditional rules. Understanding these guidelines will help you fully appreciate and respect this beautiful ritual.
Can We Talk During the Tea Ceremony?
During a formal tea ceremony, silence is observed to honor the host and other guests. At the beginning, it is customary for the host and guests to greet each other with a silent bow.
When preparing thick tea (koicha), everyone remains quiet to maintain a respectful and peaceful atmosphere. After serving the thick tea, only the main guest may engage in conversation with the host.
As guests drink the final servings of thin tea (usucha), they listen carefully to the soothing sound of the boiling water, known as matsukaze—meaning “the wind blowing through pine trees.” Speaking is kept to a minimum to preserve the ceremony's calmness.
Can Babies or Small Children Join the Tea Ceremony?
For families with infants or toddlers (ages 0-3), joining a shared tea ceremony may be challenging due to the need for quiet and stillness. We recommend opting for a Private Tea Ceremony in these cases.
If a baby becomes upset during a group ceremony, parents are kindly asked to wait in the adjoining waiting room to maintain the ceremony’s serene environment.
The Kyoto tea ceremony is designed to create a peaceful and meditative space for all participants, emphasizing mindfulness and respect.
Experience the Best Kyoto Tea Ceremonies in 2025
the Best Kyoto Tea Ceremonies
Experiencing a Kyoto tea ceremony is a memorable way to connect with Japan’s cultural heritage. From historic teahouses to private, intimate sessions, each ceremony offers a unique glimpse into the art of tea.
To make your trip even more special, we also offer exclusive cultural tours in Kyoto and airport transfers from Kansai International Airport—perfect for travelers seeking a seamless, authentic experience. Be sure to include a tea ceremony—and perhaps one of our cultural tours—on your Japan itinerary.
