Kyoto Gion Tea Ceremony & Wabi-sabi Walking Tour

Explore Kyoto’s traditional side with the Gion Tea Ceremony & Wabi-Sabi Walking Tour. Stroll through historical spots like Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, a quiet local shrine, and a traditional tea utensil shop, all with a friendly local guide. Along the way, you’ll learn about Wabi-sabi, the Japanese idea of finding beauty in simplicity and nature.

The tour ends with a calming tea ceremony, where you’ll see how matcha is prepared and enjoy it with a small traditional snack. It’s a great way to experience Japanese tea culture and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Kyoto. Perfect for anyone curious about the city’s unique traditions and history!

What’s Covered

• Tea Ceremony Experience

• Entrance fee of 2 temples

• English-speaking guide

• Photos during a tour

What’s Extra

• Personal expenses during the tour

• Transportation to and from the meeting point

Good to Know

• The tour begins promptly, so arriving on time is essential to avoid missing out.

• Guests arriving more than 15 minutes late will be unable to join, reschedule, or receive a refund.

• Be prepared for Kyoto’s seasonal weather, which can include summer heat and winter chills. Tours may be canceled for safety during extreme conditions.

• The tour operates as a small group experience and may include other participants.

Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point

Meet at Gion Shijo Station, outside Exit 5, near the Izumo no Okuni Statue. Your guide will hold an orange signboard with "Magical Trip Tour." This is where the group will gather before starting the tour.

Tea Shop in Gion Area

Visit a cozy tea shop in the Gion area. Learn about different types of Japanese tea and their role in Kyoto's culture. Your guide will share insights into the basics of tea preparation.

Kennin-ji Temple – Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple

Explore Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Walk through its peaceful grounds and learn about its history and connection to Zen Buddhism. Enjoy the quiet and beautiful surroundings.

Tea Utensil Shop

Stop by a shop that specializes in tea utensils. See traditional tools used for tea ceremonies and learn about their importance in Japanese tea culture.

Local Quiet Temple

Take a break from the crowds and visit a calm, lesser-known temple. Hear about its history and its ties to Kyoto’s tea traditions while enjoying its peaceful atmosphere.

Tea Ceremony Experience

End the tour with a traditional tea ceremony in a serene setting. Watch the preparation of matcha, then enjoy the tea with a small seasonal snack. It’s a perfect way to experience Japanese culture and mindfulness.

FAQs

What should I wear for the tour?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate walking. Dress appropriately for the weather, as Kyoto's summers can be very hot, and winters can be chilly.

What happens if I arrive late?

To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, the tour starts on time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, you won’t be able to join, reschedule, or receive a refund. It’s best to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Will there be other participants on the tour?

This is a small group tour, so other participants may join you. This allows for an intimate and enjoyable experience while still being able to meet other travelers.

What if the weather is bad?

The tour may be canceled in extreme weather conditions for safety reasons. If this happens, you will be notified in advance, and you will receive a full refund or an option to reschedule. The tour will proceed as planned for light rain, so please bring an umbrella if needed.

Related Read: A Cultural Journey Through Gion: 15 Things to Do in Kyoto's Gem