Heritage Experiences

Kyoto: Machiya Kimono Rental and Tea Ceremony

Tourists participating in a Kyoto Machiya Kimono & Tea Ceremony Experience in a traditional Japanese room

Discover the essence of Japanese tradition. Partake in a centuries-old traditional tea ceremony while donning a kimono at a historic Kyoto machiya.

Highlights

The Kyoto Machiya Kimono & Tea Ceremony Experience is perfect for culture enthusiasts to learn about time-honored Japanese customs.
Discover the history of the 138-year-old townhouse and learn about its cultural significance in Kyoto's Nishijin district.
Learn how to dress up in an elegant kimono. Select from a variety of styles and colors to match the season and occasion.
Upgrade your ticket and experience the traditional tea ceremony in the Rakuju tea ceremony room built by the headmaster of the house!
Fun fact: The Japanese tea ceremony dates back to 815 CE when Emperor Saga was served tea by a Buddhist monk.

Inclusions

English-guided tour of the townhouse
Traditional kimono outfit
Tea ceremony
Exclusive tea ceremony in Rakuju room (as per option selected)
Tea sweets

Exclusions

Transport
Lunch

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reviews

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Your experience

Step into Japanese tradition

In Japanese culture, the tea ceremony embodies the art of mindful preparation and serene enjoyment, reflecting centuries of tradition. Learn about this time-honored tradition through the kimono & tea ceremony experience, where you’ll immerse yourself in these timeless Japanese customs. Begin your day with a tour of the Tondaya Machiya, a historic townhouse built in 1885, originally serving as a kimono store. Admire the traditional wooden architecture, shoji screens, and tatami mats, which have preserved Kyoto's cultural heritage. Next, you'll enjoy dressing up in a traditional kimono that was once a privilege available only for Japan's noble class.

An artistic expression of hospitality

The experience culminates with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Here, you’ll witness the meticulous art of tea preparation. Savor the matcha tea paired with wagashi, delicate Japanese sweets designed to complement the tea’s flavor. Each aspect of the ceremony, from the matcha whisking to the presentation of the wagashi sweets, offers a window into the refined rituals of Japanese hospitality. As the ceremony concludes, reflect on the new knowledge you have obtained about this historical practice as you appreciate the value of tradition.

Know before you go

What to bring

Bring along your white socks as this helps to preserve the venue's cultural assets.

What's not allowed

Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Keep in mind tripods are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!

Accessibility

This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.

Additional information

Please avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing such as turtlenecks during the kimono experience.
This experience is for both men and women.

My tickets

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
Please arrive at the redemption point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.