Dive deep into Kyoto’s famous Zen culture through this intimate experience with a tea expert. This cultural master and fluent English speaker offers an in-depth look at the secrets of tea ceremony and the role it plays in Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s timeless culture.

Programme Details

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Depart the hotel by private vehicle and meet the host at the entrance gate of Daitokuji, a sprawling Zen complex hiding dozens of small temples behind weathered walls. Explore one of these temples, taking in the dynamic Zen rock garden and learning the meaning behind the enigmatic landscape. The rich history of the temple complex is discussed, as well as the role that tea plays in the daily activities of the Zen monks.

Enter the host’s traditional wooden home on the edge of the temple complex and begin the tea ceremony. Through enlightening explanations, the ritual of tea unfolds in a friendly and relaxed manner. Watch as matcha tea is prepared, and then learn to savour both the moment and the flavour in each cup. The host seeks to find ways for his guests to connect with the concepts of tea in their own personal way. From an examination of the charcoal heating the water to the story behind the craftwork in each teacup, a focus on details makes this a unique experience.

After the ceremony, visitors are free to ask questions about the ritual and the host’s unique style of traditional living. Part ways and return to the hotel via private vehicle.

Notes:

- Not available on Saturday and Sundays
- Not available for children under 10 years of age.
- This tour is private, with a minimum of 2 guests and maximum of 6 guests per group. 
- Please inform your travel agent of any special dietary requirements that you might have.
- 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.

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