Tea Ceremony at a Private Temple

Begin your day by visiting one of Kyoto's most famous temples, the glorious Kodaiji in the Higashiyama district.  With 400-years of history, the lavish buildings and beautiful Zen gardens are the perfect setting for today's sado - or tea ceremony.

Meet the tea master who will explain the history of green tea in Japan and its relationship with Zen Buddhism, before entering a sub-temple of Kodaiji that is normally off-limits to the public.  Learn about the significance of each step and motion involved in the ceremony itself, before sampling the bitter concoction and accompanying traditional sweets.  Following this unforgettable event, take a guided stroll around the surrounding historic neighbourhood - making your way up the shop-lined stone steps to the famous wooden balcony of Kiyomizudera temple.

As this is a very exclusive experience, we cannot guarantee availability during high season or for last-minute trips.