Hiroshima Cultural Experience: Tea Ceremony & Cooking in Kimono Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Experience the heart of Japanese tradition with an immersive 2-hour cultural journey on the sacred island of Miyajima (Itsukushima). This unique shore excursion is designed for travelers who want to do more than just see Japan—they want to feel it. Set within the serene grounds of the 300-year-old Tokujuji Zen Temple, this experience allows you to step into the role of a local by dressing in a traditional Kimono and participating in three distinct cultural arts: Calligraphy, the Tea Ceremony, and a seasonal cooking lesson.

This excursion offers a perfect balance of artistic expression and culinary discovery. Guided by expert instructors who specialize in sharing Japanese heritage with international guests, you will learn the meditative strokes of the brush and the graceful etiquette of the tea room. To ensure your memories last a lifetime, your teachers will capture professional-quality photos of you in your Kimono against the backdrop of the temple’s historic gardens. With our “Back-to-Ship Guarantee,” you can fully lose yourself in this spiritual and creative retreat.

Highlights

• Tokujuji Zen Temple: Participate in your lessons within a historic temple, located just five minutes from the ferry but tucked away from the main tourist crowds for a peaceful atmosphere.
• Kimono Dressing: Choose from a wide selection of beautiful Kimonos and Yukatas, professionally fitted to help you look and feel the part of a traditional practitioner.
• Shodo (Calligraphy): Learn to write your name or a meaningful Kanji character using a traditional brush and ink—a wonderful souvenir to take home.
• Sado (Tea Ceremony): Observe the ritual purification of tools and the preparation of Matcha, then try your hand at whisking your own bowl of frothy green tea.
• Onigiri Cooking Lesson: Learn the art of making Onigiri (rice balls), a staple of Japanese comfort food, using various traditional fillings and nori seaweed.

Cruise Information

This 2-hour cultural program is ideally suited for passengers docking at the Port of Hiroshima (Ujina or Itsukaichi Pier). We provide a private, air-conditioned vehicle to transport you from the pier to the Miyajima ferry terminal, ensuring a smooth and timely transition. Our team monitors your ship’s “all aboard” time to guarantee you return to the port at least one hour before departure.

Complete Details

Your day of cultural immersion begins at the Hiroshima Port, where your guide and driver will meet you for the drive to the ferry terminal. After a brief crossing to Miyajima Island, you will arrive at the tranquil Tokujuji Temple. Your experience starts with Kimono dressing, where staff will help you select and wear your preferred style of traditional dress.

Once dressed, you will begin your Calligraphy lesson, focusing on the “writing meditation” that requires a calm mind and steady hand. Next, you will move to the tea room for a Tea Ceremony. You will learn the profound principles of Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility while enjoying seasonal Japanese sweets. The final activity is a mini cooking class, where you will learn to mold and fill the perfect Onigiri rice ball. Throughout the experience, your guide will take photos in the temple’s lush Zen garden and email them to you, so you can focus entirely on the moment. After your activities, you will be escorted back to the port in time for your ship’s departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers and travel agencies.

Complimentary 10GB eSIM with Every Jasumo Tour Booking

When you book your tour through Jasumo, we provide a free 10GB eSIM to keep you connected. Stay online as you travel to Miyajima, check your photos instantly, and use your data to receive the digital copies of your professional temple photos as soon as they are sent—no need to search for Wi-Fi or worry about roaming fees.

FAQs

Where exactly does the cultural experience take place?

The activities are held at Okeiko Japan, located within the Tokujuji Temple (a 300-year-old Zen temple). It is a short walk from the Miyajima ferry terminal but far enough from the main streets to offer a quiet, authentic environment.

Can I choose the Kanji for my calligraphy?

Yes! Your instructor will provide a list of popular Kanji characters with beautiful meanings (such as “Peace,” “Love,” or “Dream”) and will also help you translate your name into the Japanese alphabet so you can sign your work.

Is the Onigiri cooking lesson suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, we can easily accommodate vegetarians and those with specific dietary needs. Onigiri fillings can range from traditional pickled plum (ume) and kelp to modern vegetable options. Please let us know your preferences when booking.

Do I need to bring anything for the Kimono dressing?

No special items are required. We provide the Kimono, the Obi (belt), and all necessary undergarments. We recommend wearing light clothing that is easy to change out of to make the dressing process faster.

How do you ensure I make it back to the Oceania Riviera on time?

We specialize in cruise transfers. Because this experience is relatively short (2 hours plus travel time), we leave a massive “buffer zone” in our schedule. Even with the ferry crossing, we guarantee your return to the pier one hour before sailing.

Location