Kyoto Tea Ceremony Class: Make Your Own Matcha

You Make the Tea, Not Just Watch It

An authentic tea ceremony class in Kyoto where you learn the ritual from a trained instructor, taste seasonal sweets, and make your own bowl of matcha. The experience lasts 45 minutes at Camellia Flower Teahouse, where chairs and tables are available if you prefer not to sit on the floor, and all guests are welcome regardless of prior knowledge or mobility.

The Experience

Your instructor opens with a brief introduction to matcha and the centuries-old tea ceremony that sits at the heart of Japanese culture. Before the formal ritual begins, they walk you through the steps involved, the utensils used, and why the room's decoration and layout matter. You'll taste a seasonal sweet — all vegan, nut-free and gluten-free — while your host answers any questions you have about Japan and the ceremony itself. The instructors are fluent in English and trained in one of Kyoto's three main schools of tea ceremony.

The core of the experience is hands-on: you make your own bowl of frothy matcha, learning the basics of whisking and technique. Tea bowls, scoops and whisks are provided, so there's nothing to bring. The whole session runs 45 minutes, leaving room for conversation and questions without feeling rushed.

Camellia Flower Teahouse prioritizes inclusivity. Chairs and tables are available if sitting on the floor isn't comfortable for you, and you don't need to wear kimono — dress as you feel comfortable. Children are welcome from age 6 onward. The teahouse is near public transportation, and you're free to take photos throughout (just turn off the flash out of respect for other guests).

What’s included

• Instruction from an English-speaking tea ceremony instructor trained in one of Kyoto's three main schools.
• a seasonal vegan sweet.
• tea bowls, scoops and whisks for making your own matcha.
• chairs and tables available upon request.

Good to know

Pets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Camellia

Is this one for you?Book the shared ceremony if you're comfortable learning alongside other guests and want the most accessible price; choose a private ceremony if you prefer one-on-one instruction or are traveling with a small group who want the experience together.

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Top questions

What exactly do I learn to do in this tea ceremony class?

You learn to whisk and prepare your own bowl of matcha under instruction. Your host explains the steps, utensils and meaning of the ceremony first, then guides you through making the tea yourself, covering the basics of the technique.

Do I have to sit on the floor for the whole 45 minutes?

No. Chairs and tables are available if you prefer not to sit on the floor, and the teahouse welcomes guests to use them without any issue.

Can I bring my children to this tea ceremony?

Children are welcome from age 6 onward. Children under 6 cannot participate in the shared or private ceremonies.

What's included with the tea ceremony, and what do I need to bring?

The experience includes the instruction, a seasonal sweet, and all the tea-making tools — bowls, scoops and whisks are provided. You don't need to bring anything or arrange your own transportation to the teahouse.

Is this a shared class or can I book it privately?

You can choose between a shared tea ceremony with other guests, a private ceremony for your group, or a private ceremony in the Flower Annex. The shared option is the standard format; private options are available at checkout.