Immerse in the connection between tea and temples with an Omotesenke tea ceremony
2 hour private experience
Location: Hiroshima City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Experience the height of hospitality at a Rinzai tea ceremony conducted in a temple. Learn about the history of tea ceremony, the importance of temples, and the role played by the tea utensils in tea ceremony. Then, enjoy wagashi sweets and matcha prepared for you by the tea master. Even get the chance to learn how to whisk matcha properly yourself!
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
What to wear
Comfortable clothing and white socks are recommended.
What else to know
Please inform us of any dietary requirements, including allergies, at checkout
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (09:00 - 11:00)
Session 2 (15:00 - 17:00)
Unavailable on weekends, national holidays, and between August 1st to 15th
Access
12 minutes by car from Hiroshima Station
Tea, Temples, and Tranquility
Since its very introduction to Japan in the 8th century, tea and Buddhism have been inextricably intertwined. First imported by monks returning from study in China, tea consumption remained initially limited to aristocrats and monks, who sought the health benefits of the beverage, as well as its ability to aid concentration during religious study. When tea culture and matcha both began to develop further in the Kamakura Period, as the samurai warrior class began to rise in power, Buddhism was once again at the forefront. At its roots, even down to the tea plants frequently planted as hedges at temples, separating the secular world from the spiritual, tea and Buddhism have been connected. At this temple, conveniently located in the center of Hiroshima City, the tradition of tea and temples continues. Experience an Omotesenke-style tea ceremony led by the head monk's wife, an accredited tea ceremony master. As you sit on the tatami floor of the temple’s quiet tea room, surrounded by the sound of water ladled into a matcha bowl, you’ll gain more than just a taste of finely whisked green tea — you’ll experience the meditative stillness and hospitality that lie at the heart of both Buddhist practice and Japanese tea ceremony.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
Tours will rarely be canceled or changed, even in cases of bear activity or bad weather.
