Kyoto: Make Sweets With an Award-Winning Chef at Ninna-Ji

In the heart of Kyoto, an exclusive opportunity awaits adventurous travelers seeking a truly immersive cultural experience. At the renowned Ninna-ji Temple, visitors have the chance to engage in the art of Japanese confectionery making with an award-winning chef.

This private tour allows participants to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the temple, a UNESCO National Treasure that has stood for over 1,300 years. Before the temple opens its gates to the public, participants can explore the serene grounds, adorned with vibrant trees and lush gardens. Inside the Great Hall, a hidden gem normally off-limits, intricate Japanese craftsmanship awaits, providing a captivating backdrop for the journey into the world of wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets.

Guided by an expert chef, you will uncover the secrets of creating these delectable treats and even have the chance to sample their own creations. The experience culminates with an immersive tea ceremony in a secluded tea house, surrounded by picturesque gardens, leaving participants with memories that will last a lifetime.

Good To Know

• The Ninna-ji Temple is a 1,300-year-old UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple in western Kyoto known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
• The tour offers a unique experience of unlocking the temple gates before opening hours and exploring the peaceful park surrounding the temple.
• Participants get to learn about the Japanese craftsmanship in the Great Hall and enjoy the calm ambiance of a secluded tea house surrounded by private gardens.
• An award-winning confectioner teaches participants how to make wagashi, a traditional Japanese candy, and there is also a tea ceremony where the meaning and history behind the ritual can be discovered.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

The tour details of the ‘Kyoto: Make Sweets With an Award-Winning Chef at Ninna-Ji’ experience include a non-refundable duration of 2.5 hours, with availability for starting times and a live tour guide available in English and Japanese for a small group of up to 6 participants.

This immersive experience allows participants to explore the world of Japanese confectionery techniques and traditional tea ceremonies in Kyoto. The tour starts by unlocking the gates to the 1,300-year-old Ninna-ji Temple before opening hours, providing an exclusive opportunity to explore the temple grounds and admire the beautiful gardens.

Participants will then have the chance to learn from an award-winning confectioner and try their hand at making Japanese candy.

The experience also includes a tea ceremony in a secluded tea house, where participants can enjoy the tranquility and history of traditional tea rituals.

The Original Experience

During the original experience, participants have the opportunity to unlock the gates to the 1,300-year-old Ninna-ji Temple before opening hours, seeing the rich history and cultural significance of this UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple.

Here are four highlights of this unique experience:

1. Learning about the Great Hall’s Japanese craftsmanship: Participants will explore the normally closed-off Great Hall, marveling at its meticulous interior adorned with traditional Japanese art and woodwork. A knowledgeable guide will provide insightful commentary, shedding light on the hall’s significance.

2. Enjoying the calm ambiance of a secluded tea house surrounded by private gardens: In this tranquil setting, participants can admire the ornate gardens and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. They’ll discover the meaning and history behind this ancient ritual.

3. Trying your hand at making Japanese candy with an award-winning confectioner: Participants will have the chance to learn traditional Japanese candy making techniques from a skilled instructor. They can sample delicious wagashi and even craft their own tasty treats.

4. Discovering the history and cultural significance of Ninna-ji with a resident monk: A resident monk will share intriguing stories and insights about the temple’s past, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of its heritage.

Through these unique experiences, participants won’t only appreciate the architectural beauty of Ninna Ji but also enjoy the traditional arts and cultural practices that have been preserved within its walls.

Temple Details

Where is the 1,300-year-old Ninna-ji Temple located in Kyoto?

Nestled in the western part of Kyoto, Ninna-ji Temple is a UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple of immense historical significance. This 1,300-year-old temple is renowned for its architectural beauty, traditional gardens, and impressive collection of classic art and woodwork. Recognized as a National Treasure by UNESCO, Ninna-ji Temple offers an exclusive opportunity to experience its wonders at dawn on a private tour.

As you unlock the main gates, dating back to the 17th century, you’ll enter a peaceful park filled with colorful trees and lush gardens. Inside the Great Hall, normally closed to the public, you’ll marvel at the meticulous interior adorned with traditional Japanese art and woodwork.

This adventure promises to be an insightful and awe-inspiring journey into the rich cultural heritage of Ninna-ji Temple.

Unlocking the Gates

Unlocking the main gates of Ninna-ji Temple grants visitors exclusive access to a peaceful park filled with colorful trees and lush gardens. Exploring the temple grounds is an adventure in itself, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

As visitors walk through the gates, they’re greeted by the splendor of traditional architecture, showcasing the rich history of Japan. The Great Hall, normally closed to the public, reveals the meticulous interior adorned with traditional Japanese art and woodwork.

The guide’s insightful commentary adds depth to the experience, offering a deeper appreciation for the temple’s cultural significance. The tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds allows visitors to escape the bustling city and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Unlocking the gates unlocks a world of wonder and serenity.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Making Wagashi and Tea Ceremony

Visitors to Ninna-Ji Temple can explore the cultural traditions of Kyoto by participating in the making of wagashi, a traditional Japanese candy, and seeing a tea ceremony. In the tranquil setting of the temple’s secluded tea house, surrounded by ornate gardens, you will have the opportunity to learn the art of wagashi-making from an award-winning confectioner. They can sample delicious wagashi and craft their own tasty treats, guided by an expert instructor. Afterward, they can experience the beauty and grace of a traditional tea ceremony, where they will discover the meaning and history behind the ritual. It is an adventure into the world of Japanese sweets and the etiquette of tea, a truly immersive cultural experience.

Activity	Highlights	Duration
Making Wagashi	– Crafting traditional Japanese candy	1 hour
	– Sampling delicious wagashi
Tea Ceremony	– Participating in a traditional tea ceremony	1 hour
	– Admiring the ornate gardens
	– Discovering Japanese tea etiquette

Directions

To reach Ninna-Ji Temple, visitors should head towards the Niomon Gate, located in front of the temple. From there, they can explore the temple and its surrounding areas with ease. Here are the directions to get to Ninna-Ji Temple:

1. Public transportation: The temple is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take a bus to the temple from Kyoto Station or use the subway and get off at the Omuro-Ninnaji Station.

2. Nearby attractions: While visiting Ninna-Ji Temple, visitors can also explore other nearby attractions. The Ryoan-Ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden, is just a short walk away. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Kinkaku-Ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, are a short bus ride away.

3. Peaceful surroundings: As visitors approach Ninna-Ji Temple, they’ll be greeted by a peaceful park with colorful trees and lush gardens. This serene atmosphere sets the tone for a tranquil visit to the temple.

4. Meticulous interior: Inside the temple, visitors can explore the Great Hall, which is normally closed to the public. The hall features traditional Japanese art and woodwork, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the temple.

With these directions in mind, visitors can easily make their way to Ninna-Ji Temple and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Common Questions

What Is the Significance of Ninna-Ji Temple in Kyoto?

Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto holds great cultural heritage as a 1,300-year-old UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple. Known for its stunning gardens and traditional architecture, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Buddhist architecture.

Can Children Participate in the Tour and Tea Ceremony at Ninna-Ji Temple?

Children of all ages can participate in the tour and tea ceremony at Ninna-Ji Temple. The experience offers accessibility options for families, allowing them to explore the temple’s rich history and make sweets together.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour and Tea Ceremony?

Photography is allowed during the tour and tea ceremony at Ninna-Ji Temple. However, visitors are encouraged to respect cultural etiquette and be mindful of their surroundings. Please follow the photography policy provided by the tour guide.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour and Tea Ceremony?

Dress code requirements for the tour and tea ceremony are not mentioned in the given context. However, participants should dress comfortably and respectfully for the tea ceremony participation, adhering to traditional customs and etiquette.

Is Transportation Provided to and From Ninna-Ji Temple?

Transportation to and from Ninna-Ji Temple is not provided for the tour and tea ceremony. However, participants can easily reach the temple by public transportation or taxi. The experience includes making sweets with an award-winning chef.

The Sum Up

Set out on a truly enchanting journey at Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto, where the secrets of Japanese confectionery making come to life.

This exclusive experience offers a glimpse into the temple’s rich history and cultural significance, as well as the opportunity to explore its serene grounds and exquisite craftsmanship.

With the guidance of an award-winning chef, you will create their own delectable wagashi treats and indulge in an immersive tea ceremony.

Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure that combines tradition, artistry, and culinary delight.

You can check if your dates are available here: