Why not go beyond sightseeing and experience the true essence of Japan?
From the heartfelt hospitality in a single serving of tea, to the refined sense of beauty found in a brushstroke of calligraphy, and the delicate art of making seasonal wagashi sweets — Japan offers countless places where you can immerse yourself in its rich cultural traditions.
Embark on a journey that touches the heart, and create unforgettable memories through cultural experiences.
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Experience Japanese Culture
Rather than just visiting tourist spots, more travelers are now seeking to immerse themselves in local culture through hands-on experiences. Across Japan, traditional cultural workshops such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and Japanese sweets-making are popular not only among international visitors but also among Japanese people themselves as valuable opportunities for learning.
“Experience-Based Tourism” Popular Among Foreign Tourists
The Appeal of Japanese Culture That Transcends Language
One of the charms of Japanese culture is that it can be understood through gestures and sensations, even without a common language. The quietness of a tea ceremony, the powerful brush strokes of calligraphy, and the delicate colors of Japanese sweets all speak a universal language through sight and physical experience. As a result, people of any nationality or generation can find inspiration and emotional connection through these cultural encounters.
What is the Tea Ceremony?
The tea ceremony is one of Japan’s traditional arts that embodies aesthetics and etiquette. Stepping into a tea room and being served matcha and Japanese sweets by a host offers a moment of discovering beauty in stillness. Here, we introduce recommended tea ceremony experiences available across Japan.
Tea Ceremony Plans Available in English
Tokyo
BUB Activity Center Asakusa (Asakusa)
Conveniently located within walking distance of Asakusa Station and the historic Sensō-ji Temple, BUB Activity Center Asakusa offers an immersive cultural experience where visitors can explore Japanese traditions and history indoors. Choose from six unique activities or enjoy them all in one day—no need to worry about the weather. All programs are conducted in English, with friendly and diversity-minded Japanese staff providing thoughtful support tailored to each guest. It’s a fresh, accessible way to enjoy Asakusa beyond sightseeing.
Tea Ceremony Experience
The experience begins with dressing in a high-quality kimono, allowing you to appreciate the elegance of traditional Japanese attire. You’ll then create your own beautiful nerikiri wagashi, selecting colors and shapes that reflect your personal taste—perfect for capturing in photos. To conclude, enjoy a peaceful matcha session led by an English-speaking tea expert, where you can relax and engage in a meaningful conversation while discovering the deeper essence of Japanese culture.
| BUB ACTIVITY CENTER Asakusa – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | BUB ACTIVITY CENTER Asakusa |
| Address |
〒111-0032 Tokyo, Taito City, Asakusa, 2 Chome−6−11 Heiwa-Store Building 5F |
| Open Days / Hours | Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Duration | Approximately 60 minutes |
| Capacity | – |
| Price | Tea Ceremony and Japanese Sweets: ¥10,000 (tax included) |
| Language | Available in English |
| Official Website | https://bub-activitycenter.com |
Chazen (Asakusa)
At Chazen in Asakusa, you can easily experience the traditional Japanese culture of the tea ceremony. The program begins with a short lecture on the history and etiquette of tea ceremony. Participants then grind tea leaves using a stone mill to make matcha powder. After that, you can watch a tea ceremony demonstration performed by an experienced instructor and enjoy a seasonal Japanese confectionery with a bowl of matcha.
Finally, you’ll get the chance to whisk your own matcha, making it a beginner-friendly experience that anyone can enjoy. Chazen also offers sessions at their Ginza location.
| Chazen (Asakusa) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | Chazen & Co. |
| Address | 5F, Benkyodo Building, 1-4-7 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032 About 2 minutes on foot from Kaminarimon Gate |
| Open Days / Hours | Open year-round (except New Year holidays) Sessions begin every hour from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Last session starts at 5:00 PM |
| Duration | Approximately 45 minutes |
| Capacity |
Standard Plan: Minimum 1 participant Private Plan: From 2 participants (or 1 person at the price of 2) The venue can accommodate up to 50 people at once |
| Price |
Standard Plan: ¥3,500 per person (tax included) Private Plan: ¥5,000 per person (tax included) |
| Language | Available in Japanese and English |
| Official Website | https://www.chazen-co.jp/asakusa/ |
| Other Information |
– No dress code – Socks required (bare feet not allowed on tatami mats) – No special items needed to bring |
MAIKOYA Tokyo (Asakusa)
MAIKOYA is a cultural experience center located in Asakusa, Tokyo, offering hands-on tea ceremony sessions. In this experience, guests learn the etiquette and techniques of preparing matcha in a traditional tea room, and enjoy matcha together with Japanese sweets.
For those who choose the kimono + tea ceremony plan, kimono rental is included, allowing participants to enjoy the experience dressed in traditional attire and take memorable photos.
| MAIKOYA Tokyo (Asakusa) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | GLOBA Inc. |
| Address | 1-12-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032 |
| Open Days / Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Reservation slots available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Duration |
Kimono + Tea Ceremony: approx. 90 minutes Wagashi Cooking + Kimono + Tea Ceremony: approx. 120 minutes Tea Ceremony Only: approx. 45 minutes |
| Capacity | Available from 1 participant |
| Price |
Tea Ceremony Only: ¥7,000 per person (+tax) Wagashi Cooking + Kimono + Tea Ceremony: ¥6,500 per person (+tax) *For 2 or more participants Tea Ceremony Only: ¥3,000 per person (+tax) *For groups of 15 or more |
| Language | Japanese and English available |
| Official Website | https://mai-ko.com/jp/culture/tea-ceremony/tokyo.html |
| Other Information |
– Kimono rental includes basic hair styling for women – Participants can explore the Asakusa area in kimono after the session – MAIKOYA has been selected as a “Top Tea Ceremony Experience for Tourists” on TripAdvisor for 5 consecutive years (2018–2022) |
Jidaiya (Asakusa)
Jidaiya offers an authentic tea ceremony experience at a traditional-style studio located within walking distance of Asakusa Station. Participants can learn about the history and etiquette of tea ceremony while preparing and enjoying matcha themselves.
There is also a combination plan that includes kimono rental, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in Japanese culture through both dress and experience.
| Jidaiya (Asakusa) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | Jidaiya |
| Address | 2-3-5 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0034 |
| Open Days / Hours | 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Duration |
Tea Ceremony: approx. 30–50 minutes Kimono + Tea Ceremony: approx. 90–120 minutes |
| Capacity | Available from 1 participant |
| Price |
Tea Ceremony: – ¥11,000 (tax included) for 1 person – ¥5,500 per person (tax included) for 2 or more participants Kimono Add-ons: – Kimono: +¥6,600 (tax included) – Yukata: +¥5,500 (tax included) |
| Language | Available in Japanese and English |
| Official Website | https://jidaiya.biz/japanese_culture/tea-ceremony |
| Other Information |
– Chair-seated sessions are available, making it accessible for those who have difficulty sitting on the floor or use a wheelchair – Sweets provided are suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and those following halal diets – Photography is allowed; video and audio recording are not permitted |
Asacha no Yu (Tokyo Tower)
“Asacha no Yu” is a morning tea ceremony experience held on the Main Deck of Tokyo Tower, 150 meters above ground. While enjoying panoramic views of Tokyo, guests can savor matcha and traditional Japanese sweets.
The tea utensils used are crafted by traditional artisans, and the program is designed to be accessible for beginners and international visitors alike.
| Asacha no Yu (Tokyo Tower) – Morning Tea Ceremony | |
|---|---|
| Operator | TOKYO TOWER Co., Ltd. |
| Address | 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0011 |
| Open Days / Hours |
Held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month *Dates may change; please check the reservation page or official Instagram for updates 1st Session: Reception at 8:00 AM, starts at 8:15 AM (Tatami seating, South window corridor) 2nd Session: Reception at 8:45 AM, starts at 9:00 AM (Chair seating, inside Club333) |
| Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Capacity |
Not explicitly stated *Groups of 11 or more should contact in advance by phone or inquiry form |
| Price | ¥3,980 per person (tax included) Includes participation fee and Main Deck observation ticket |
| Language | Japanese, English, French, Spanish |
| Official Website | https://jidaiya.biz/japanese_culture/tea-ceremony |
| Other Information |
– Chair seating is available – Tea utensils are crafted by traditional artisans with support from the Japan-France Tea Ceremony Exchange Association – Sweets may contain sugar, eggs, and gluten – Video recording and audio during the tea ceremony are not allowed |
Kyoto
BIKOUEN (Butsuguya-cho)
Founded in 1872 (Meiji 5), BIKOUEN is a long-established tea shop located in Kyoto. Their tea ceremony experience is led by a host trained in the Yabunouchi school of tea, offering guests an authentic and refined encounter with Japanese tea culture.
They offer a variety of plans, including “Samurai Tea Ceremony” and “Tea Gathering Experience,” suitable for both beginners and advanced participants. The proprietress, fluent in English, Chinese, and Japanese, is available to assist international guests throughout the experience.
| BIKOUEN (Kyoto – Butsuguya-cho) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | BIKOUEN Co., Ltd. |
| Address | 235 Butsuguya-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8347 (South of Hanayacho St., Aburanokoji St.) |
| Open Days / Hours | Monday to Friday (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays) 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Duration |
Samurai Tea Ceremony: approx. 60 minutes Tea Gathering (Koicha & Usucha): approx. 70 minutes Full Tea Gathering: approx. 150 minutes Matcha-Making Experience: approx. 30 minutes |
| Capacity |
Samurai Tea Ceremony: 2–30 participants Tea Gathering: 6–30 participants Full Tea Gathering: 3–16 participants Matcha-Making Experience: 1–20 participants |
| Price |
Samurai Tea Ceremony: ¥3,600 Tea Gathering (Koicha & Usucha): ¥4,000 Full Tea Gathering: ¥15,000 Matcha-Making Experience: ¥2,000 |
| Language | Japanese, English, Chinese |
| Official Website | https://bikouen.com/ |
| Other Information | — |
KYOTO MAIKOYA Nishiki (Ebiya-cho, Rokuro-cho, Itoya-cho)
MAIKOYA is a cultural experience center with locations in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, offering tea ceremony experiences in traditional settings. At the Nishiki branch in Kyoto, participants wear a kimono and learn the etiquette and method of preparing matcha, while enjoying it with traditional Japanese sweets in an authentic tea room.
The experience is available in English, making it accessible and enjoyable for international guests as well.
| KYOTO MAIKOYA (Nishiki & other Kyoto branches) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | GLOBA Inc. |
| Address |
Nishiki Branch: 329 Ebiya-cho, Gokomachi-dori, Sanjo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto Gion Kiyomizu Branch: 100 Rokuro-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto Karasuma Shijo Branch: 220 Itoya-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto |
| Open Days / Hours | Not specified |
| Duration |
Kimono + Tea Ceremony: Not specified Tea Ceremony Only: Not specified Wagashi Cooking + Tea Ceremony: Not specified |
| Capacity |
Kimono + Tea Ceremony: From 1 participant Tea Ceremony Only: From 1 participant Wagashi Cooking + Tea Ceremony: From 1 participant |
| Price |
Kimono + Tea Ceremony: ¥7,000 per person (+tax) Tea Ceremony Only: ¥8,000 per person (+tax) Wagashi Cooking + Tea Ceremony: ¥9,500 per person (+tax) |
| Language | Japanese and English |
| Official Website | https://mai-ko.com/jp/culture/tea-ceremony/ |
| Other Information |
– Kimono rental includes simple hairstyling for women – Summer kimono and yukata are available – No dress code – No personal items or tools are needed |
Nagomi (Masuya-cho / Setogawa-cho, Kyoto)
Located on the second floor of Kanda Bamboo Craft Shop—a building over 100 years old—Nagomi offers a tea ceremony experience in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. The venue is just a short walk from famous landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage site Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Pagoda, and Kodaiji Temple, making it an ideal cultural stop during sightseeing.
The experience features matcha from Gion Tsujiri, a Kyoto-based tea company with over 150 years of history. Known for its mild bitterness, the matcha is highly regarded by both Japanese and international guests. With detailed instruction provided in both English and Japanese, participants can enjoy the rare opportunity of preparing matcha by themselves in a relaxed and authentic setting.
| Nagomi (Kyoto – Masuya-cho & Setogawa-cho) – Tea Ceremony Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | Nagomi Inc. |
| Address |
Ninenzaka Branch: 2F, Kanda Bamboo Craft Shop, 349-7 Masuya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0826 Arashiyama Branch: 1F, Flora View Akamamma, 26 Setogawa-cho, Saga Tenryuji, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8376 |
| Open Days / Hours | Irregular holidays |
| Duration | Not specified |
| Capacity |
Shared Plan: From 1 participant Private Plan: From 1 participant |
| Price |
Shared Plan: – Adults: ¥3,500 (tax included) – Children: ¥2,500 (tax included) Private Plan: |
| Language | Japanese and English |
| Official Website | https://kyoto-nagomi-tea.com/home/ |
| Other Information | — |
Feel the Beauty of Japan Through Shodo (Calligraphy)
Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, is not only the art of writing characters beautifully—it is also a spiritual practice that reflects one’s inner self. Every element, from the rhythm of brush strokes to the shades of ink and the use of empty space, carries deep meaning. Through the act of writing, participants can experience a form of self-expression rooted in Japanese aesthetics.
The Art of Writing With the Heart
Most calligraphy experiences begin with learning how to properly hold the brush and how to grind ink on a traditional inkstone. Surrounded by the calming scent of ink, participants can enjoy moments of quiet focus—an experience often likened to “Japanese meditation.” Even complete beginners can enjoy these programs, which are designed to teach the fundamentals in a gentle and accessible way.
Learn Brush Handling and Ink Grinding
During the session, participants can write their names in kanji or choose a meaningful character like “dream” (夢), “heart” (心), or “peace” (平和) to complete their artwork. The finished piece can be taken home, making it a perfect travel keepsake or a heartfelt gift. A handwritten character you create yourself will surely become a one-of-a-kind souvenir unlike any other.
Calligraphy Experiences Available in English
Kyoto
MAIKOYA Kyoto (Ebiya-cho)
At MAIKOYA’s calligraphy experience in Kyoto, participants learn about the origins of kanji, hiragana, and katakana, as well as the history of Japanese calligraphy. The session includes instruction on how to properly hold the brush and maintain good posture.
After practicing basic strokes like “一” (one) and “川” (river), guests can choose their favorite kanji or write their name on a colored paper (shikishi) to complete their own calligraphy work, which they can take home as a souvenir.
The experience takes place in a traditional tatami room, with both floor cushions and chairs available—making it comfortable even for those who are not used to sitting on the floor.
| MAIKOYA Kyoto (Ebiya-cho) – Calligraphy Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | GLOBA Inc. |
| Address | 329 Ebiya-cho, Gokomachi-dori Sanjo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto |
| Open Days / Hours | Not specified |
| Duration | Approximately 60 minutes |
| Capacity | From 1 participant |
| Price | ¥60,000 (+tax) |
| Language | English |
| Official Website | https://mai-ko.com/jp/culture/calligraphy/ |
| Other Information | Fully private experience |
SAKURA (Nishinotoin Higashi-iru, Izumi-cho)
SAKURA Japanese Culture Experience offers enjoyable calligraphy sessions suitable for both beginners and those with prior experience. Participants start by learning the basics—how to hold the brush and sit properly—before exploring the beauty of expressing kanji and kana characters artistically through traditional Japanese calligraphy.
The center also offers a variety of creative programs, including making original uchiwa (hand fans) and sutra copying (shakyo), allowing visitors to explore Japanese culture from multiple angles.
| SAKURA – Japanese Calligraphy Experience | |
|---|---|
| Operator | Roxcy Co., Ltd. |
| Address |
Nijō Castle Classroom: 660 Izumi-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-0015 Ninenzaka Kangetsu: 349-19 Masuya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0826 |
| Open Days / Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Reservation required, same-day reservations accepted) |
| Duration | Not specified |
| Capacity | Not specified |
| Price | Not specified |
| Language | Japanese and English |
| Official Website | https://sakura-kyoto.jp/shodo/course.html |
| Other Information | Reservation required |
Tips for Choosing the Right Cultural Experience
Language Support / Duration / Age Restrictions
Some facilities may not offer support in English or other languages, so it’s important for international visitors to check whether English is available. Also, pay attention to the duration and recommended age. For example, calligraphy and wagashi-making experiences are often short and beginner-friendly, making them suitable for children as well.
Check Reviews and Social Media Posts
Browsing reservation sites, Google reviews, and social media posts can help you get a better idea of the actual experience. Facilities with photo-filled reports and high ratings are generally more satisfying and reliable, so use them as a reference when choosing.
Combo Plans (Kimono + Cultural Experience) Are Also Popular
In recent years, combo plans that include kimono rental and cultural activities have become increasingly popular. In Kyoto, for instance, many places offer tea ceremony or calligraphy sessions after dressing in traditional kimono. These packages allow you to fully immerse yourself in Japanese aesthetics and enhance your overall sightseeing experience.
Make Your Trip Unforgettable Through Japanese Cultural Experiences
Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: Meaningful Encounters
Rather than just visiting tourist attractions, engaging in hands-on cultural experiences allows you to connect more deeply with Japan. Experiencing the calm of a tea ceremony or the mindful strokes of calligraphy helps you naturally understand the Japanese spirit of hospitality and refined sense of beauty.
The Value of Experiential Travel
Modern tourism is shifting from “seeing” to “doing.” Cultural experiences provide a rare chance to step inside the heart of Japan. A small studio or classroom visited during your trip may become a cherished memory that stays with you for years.
A Great First Step Into Japanese Culture
Tea ceremony, calligraphy, and wagashi-making are all perfect entry points into Japanese traditions. One simple experience while traveling can spark a lifelong interest or new hobby. Start by finding one that resonates with you—it may be the beginning of a much deeper cultural journey.
