Japanese Tea Ceremony at Private Home in Yokohama, Suburban Tokyo

Yokohama, just outside Tokyo, offers an immersive cultural experience that’s hard to beat. Spend an afternoon indulging in the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, hosted by the welcoming Kono family in the privacy of their home. For just $54 per person, you’ll savor expertly whisked matcha and delightful wagashi sweets while gaining insights into the history and techniques of this revered art form. It’s an intimate encounter that’ll have you…

Good To Know

• Immersive Japanese tea ceremony experience hosted by the welcoming Kono family in their private home in Obacho, Yokohama.
• Includes matcha green tea preparation, traditional wagashi sweets, and cultural insights shared by the hosts.
• Easily accessible via public transportation, with pickup options at Mizuho Bank and Obacho Bus stop.
• Socks required for entry into the tatami room, and the experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Highly rated by previous guests, with 100% satisfaction across 23 reviews, and priced at $54.03 per person for a private tour.

Overview of the Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience

The Japanese Tea Ceremony experience at a private home in Yokohama, a suburb of Tokyo, is highly recommended by travelers, with a perfect 100% rating from 23 reviews.

Priced at $54.03 per person, it’s a private tour where only your group participates. You can choose pickup options like Mizuho Bank or Obacho Bus stop, both near public transportation.

The experience includes matcha (green tea), wagashi (handmade Japanese sweets), and snacks. You’ll need to bring socks to enter the tatami room.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.

It’s an engaging cultural experience with the Kono family.

Meeting and Pickup Logistics for the Tea Ceremony

To get to the private tea ceremony, participants can choose between two convenient pickup options.

They can meet at the Mizuho Bank, just a 1-minute walk from Azamino Station. Alternatively, they can be picked up at the Obacho Bus stop, only 3 stops from Azamino Station.

Both options are easily accessible via public transportation.

The experience takes place in Obacho, Aoba Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.

This location is well-connected to the surrounding areas, making it simple for guests to reach the private home where the tea ceremony is held.

1. Pickup at Mizuho Bank (1 min walk from Azamino Station)
2. Pickup at Obacho Bus stop (3 stops from Azamino Station)
3. Near public transportation

What’s Included in the Tea Ceremony Package

For the Japanese Tea Ceremony experience, participants receive a selection of offerings. This includes matcha green tea, carefully prepared by the hosts.

Complementing the tea are delicate wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets that cater to vegan and gluten-free diets. Snacks are also provided to enhance the culture.

To fully participate, guests are reminded to bring socks, as they’ll be entering the tatami room where the ceremony takes place.

Confirmation and Accessibility Details

Guests receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Unfortunately, this experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, the host, the Kono family, is known for their engaging cultural experience.

Participants will:

1. Learn the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a comfortable tatami room setting.
2. Enjoy a selection of handmade Japanese sweets, suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
3. Engage in cultural conversations with the friendly Kono family, providing a memorable interaction with locals.

Engaging With the Kono Family During the Tea Ceremony

Though the Japanese tea ceremony is a revered cultural tradition, the Kono family’s approach makes it an engaging and approachable experience.

Participants are welcomed into the family’s home, where they learn the nuances of the tea ceremony from the host. The Kono family encourages questions and conversations, sharing insights into the history and techniques.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the ceremony and the host’s passion for their cultural heritage. The personal touch and hospitable atmosphere create a memorable experience that goes beyond simply observing the ritual.

Exploring the Matcha Green Tea and Wagashi Sweets

As participants settle into the intimate Tatami room, they’re presented with the star of the show – the vibrant green matcha tea.

With careful guidance from their host, the Kono family, guests learn the proper way to whisk the powdery tea into a frothy delight.

Accompanying the matcha are exquisite wagashi sweets, handcrafted using traditional methods.

Participants delight in the:

1. Delicate mochi filled with sweet red bean paste
2. Intricate jellies made with seasonal fruits
3. Beautifully sculpted confections that resemble miniature works of art

This sensory experience offers a glimpse into the artistry and elegance of Japanese tea culture.

Embracing the Cultural Immersion and Conversations

The Kono family’s warm hospitality and genuine interest in sharing their cultural traditions create an immersive experience for guests.

As participants sip matcha and savor handcrafted wagashi, they engage in lively discussions about the tea ceremony’s history and significance.

The family encourages questions, offering insights into their daily lives and Japanese culture.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the intricate art form and newfound connections with their hosts.

This intimate setting fosters meaningful exchanges, allowing guests to fully embrace the culture and deepen their understanding of Japanese customs.

Positive Feedback From Previous Tea Ceremony Participants

Previous participants have praised the Japanese tea ceremony experience in Yokohama, leaving overwhelmingly positive reviews.

They highlighted:

1. The engaging cultural interaction with the host family, the Konos, who provided insightful explanations throughout the ceremony.

2. The opportunity to savor the authentic matcha tea and delicate wagashi sweets, all while enjoying the serene ambiance of the traditional tatami room.

3. The excellent value, with the private tour offering a personalized experience at an affordable price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Permitted During the Tea Ceremony?

The experience allows photography, though it’s suggested to be mindful and considerate during the ceremony. Participants are encouraged to capture moments that don’t disrupt the traditional rituals and atmosphere.

Can the Tea Ceremony Be Extended for a Longer Duration?

The tea ceremony can be extended for a longer duration, though this would likely incur an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about extended ceremony options when booking to ensure the experience meets their desired timeline and budget.

Are There Any Specific Dress Code Requirements for Participants?

There aren’t any specific dress code requirements, but it’s best to wear comfortable, casual clothing. The focus is on the tea ceremony experience, not formal attire. Just be sure to bring socks to enter the tatami room.

Can the Menu Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The menu can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. The vegan and gluten-free wagashi (Japanese sweets) provided are suitable options, and participants can notify the organizers of any other dietary needs prior to the experience.

Is It Possible to Purchase the Tea or Sweets After the Experience?

Yes, you can purchase the tea or sweets after the experience. The host family is happy to sell these items so you can enjoy the flavors at home. Just let them know you’re interested in purchasing any items from the experience.

The Sum Up

The Japanese tea ceremony at the Kono family’s home in Yokohama offers a unique culture. For just $54.03, guests can enjoy expertly prepared matcha and wagashi sweets while learning about the history and techniques of this artistic tradition. With engaging conversations and a tranquil atmosphere, this intimate experience allows visitors to truly appreciate the beauty of Japanese tea culture.