Welcome back, friends! I want to share another fun activity I did while on Adventures of Seleana’s trip abroad. We got to participate in a traditional tea ceremony! Our phones had to be off, for obvious reasons, so I didn’t get much for pictures. We were all in the moment.
Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
The tea ceremony took place in a traditional townhouse (130 years old), which was cool to see in itself. Renovations needed to be done to make it earthquake resistant, so despite it being an older structure, it is accessible with chair lift and wheelchair accessible bathrooms. I thought that was super awesome.
There are several different types of ceremonies offered here, both private and group. Other culture immersive classes are offered. The website linked below shows everything available.
This info is from my experiences and the website. Credit where credit is due.
Accessibility
Parking
We took the train to Kyoto and walked the rest of the way here (about 10 minutes). I remember seeing *some* parking, but I’m not sure if it was public or private.
Bathrooms
There were bathrooms in the tea house. They even had fully handicapped accessible. I used that one and would warn to double check the door…I locked it and something didn’t latch right causing the door to bounce back open an inch or so. Sliding doors, my friends.
My Experience at the Tea Ceremony
The ceremony we participated in was about an hour long and full of history and proper techniques for performing the sacred ritual. There was so much more to it than I realized and can see why it is held so dear. I also had no clue that there were three different ways to prepare Matcha and each had their own school/following.
I enjoyed how interactive it was and how friendly the people performing it were. Some of my new friends even went up and performed the ceremony at the altar! I didn’t do it myself, but enjoyed an extra cup of tea. They even complimented my slurp (which is a part of it too). Matcha itself can be kind of bitter and for those that haven’t acquired a taste for it may not like it very much. However, during the ceremony, they serve sweets that help with that. We got a rice cookie and two sugar drop type treats. As someone who enjoys Matcha, but still puts a little honey into it, I appreciated the sweets.
My rating
If I had to throw a rating on this activity, I would say it was easy. I climbed the stairs and sat on a stool, but other than that no energy expenditure happened. It is a slow paced activity, if you’re looking to slow down a bit. The teahouse is completely wheelchair accessible, so don’t let your wheels stop you. Matcha is caffeinated, so bear that in mind. I am sensitive and did fine. It’s different than coffee or pop as it has other vitamins so the body uses it different. That being said, if you have to be zero caffeine than the activity may not be for you.
Want to know more about my experience? Have questions or concerns? Comment below!
Unfortunately, Cardybear did not come on the Japan adventures. I wanted to bring him, but he takes up my whole backpack. He was definitely there in spirit though.
Be safe out there and remember your passport! Seeyalaterbye <3
Also, if you feel called to help a sista out with her travels, check this out!
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