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Discover the heart of Japanese tradition through sweets and tea in a peaceful, historic setting.
Highlights
- Participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony led by local experts
- Learn the cultural significance and spiritual philosophy behind the ceremony
- Make traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) with hands-on instruction
- Enjoy the sweets you made with freshly prepared matcha tea
- Option to wear a kimono for photos (add-on available)
- Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options available
Full Description
Step into the refined world of Japanese tea culture with this immersive 2-hour experience in Izumisano, just outside Osaka. Unlike most casual tea tastings, this is an authentic tea ceremony led by a multi-generational Japanese host family in a traditional townhouse setting.
You’ll begin by learning the delicate process of crafting wagashi, traditional seasonal Japanese confections often served during tea ceremonies. Under expert guidance, you’ll make your own wagashi from scratch using time-honored techniques and ingredients.
Next, participate in a formal tea ceremony, where you’ll be introduced to the customs, utensils, and philosophy of chanoyu (tea ceremony), all while enjoying the sweets you personally created. Your host will guide you through the steps of preparing and drinking matcha in the traditional style.
This experience is suitable for vegetarians and can be adapted for vegan diets—just let your host know your dietary restrictions in advance.
After the tea ceremony, take time to explore the venue’s small museum filled with family artifacts and textiles, including examples of woven kimono fabric from Kyoto’s Nishijin district. A kimono photo session is available as an add-on for guests who want to dress in traditional attire.
Itinerary
Starting point:
Izumisano Furusato Machiyakan (Former Shinkawa Family Residence)
5-29 Honmachi, Izumisano, Osaka 598-0057, Japan
- Arrival and orientation
- Wagashi-making workshop
- Tea ceremony and tasting session
- Photo time and optional museum visit
End point:
Craft Space Kurafu-to-ya (nearby venue)
Pricing
From ¥14,000 per person
Includes
- Wagashi cooking class
- Authentic tea ceremony experience
- Use of all ingredients, seasonings, and utensils
- English-speaking guide (optional interpreter available)
- All taxes and fees
Meeting Point Instructions
Exit Nankai Izumisano Station, proceed to the right and turn into the Tsubasadouri Shopping District. Turn left at “Uniform Noguchi” and then right at the next corner. You’ll arrive at Furusato Machiyakan, a restored traditional home where your guide will meet you.
(Guests booking with an English interpreter will be accompanied throughout the experience.)
Reviews
“The three-generation family that hosted our tea ceremony went above and beyond to ensure we had an extraordinary experience. The desserts were delicious, and the setting was beautiful. Their small museum is an added bonus.”
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