Take a look behind the scenes at one of Japan's most important cultural rituals. Step into one of Kyoto's Zen temples and meet with a tea master for an exclusive ceremony. Learn the deep connection between Zen Buddhism and tea, while observing the graceful movements of the teacher.
Delve deep into Japanese culture with an exclusive half day tour of Kyoto. The day begins with a visit to Kodai-ji, one of Kyoto's most famous Zen Buddhist temples. Although the sub-temples of Kodai-ji are usually closed to the public, special access has been granted for today's tea ceremony.
Enter the stunning 400-year-old temple and stroll around its beautiful Zen garden. Then meet with a tea master who will explain about Japanese tea and the relationship between the ceremony and Zen Buddhism. Then the ceremony begins, with the master explaining each movement and its meaning in detail.
During the ceremony, join the teacher to make tea, following the motions as he demonstrates. Once ready, sample some traditional confectioneries before sipping the tea to counter its bitter flavours.
Following this interactive experience, take a walking tour around Kyoto's Higashiyama District. Admire the picture-perfect streets, whose gently sloped stone stairways are lined with tea houses and artisan shops. Stop by Kiyomizu Temple for a short tour of this architectural masterpiece. Climb to its 13-metre high balcony, which was built without the use of any kind of joiners, and enjoy an impressive view of Kyoto.
After soaking up the views of Kyoto, return to the hotel or continue exploring the city's sites.
Suggested Option: Zazen Meditation
As an option, the tea ceremony can be followed by a session of Zazen meditation, one of the most important practices of Zen Buddhism.
Following the teacher's instructions, assume a seated position and clear the mind. Take slow, steady breaths and let go of any thoughts or worries. To help fight distractions the teacher may tap on the shoulders with a keisaku, a warning stick used by Zen monks to help them keep focused.
Zazen meditation is a practice that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of cultural and religious background. Feel refreshed and rejuvenated after this traditional meditation experience.
Notes:
- Extra charges apply for the Zen Meditation option.
- The Zen Meditation option will cut tour time in Higashiyama and Kiyomizudera.
- We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance (covering emergency medical evacuation).
- Please note that all of the above services and tours have yet to be booked. They are proposed for your information only and we will not make any reservations before we receive your confirmation.
- If one or some proposed service(s) is (are) not available at the time of booking, we will try to find other possibilities/options or other similar service(s) in order to avoid changes in the program.
Here is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerHere is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerOur sales team is on hand to ensure that the process of working with us is as smooth as possible. If you should have any questions, feel free to reach out to them.