Kyoto: Tea Ceremony & Kimono Experience near Imamiya Shrine

Summary

Kimono dressing tea ceremony with Kyoto sweets near Daitoku-ji

You’ll slip into a handpicked kimono in Kyoto’s Nishijin district before joining a seasoned tea master near Daitoku-ji Temple. Taste fresh Japanese sweets, learn to whisk your own matcha, and soak up quiet moments inside a traditional tearoom. It’s gentle, unhurried—and you might find yourself thinking about those small gestures long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the quiet rustle of silk as I tried on my kimono in Nishijin—so many colors, it took me ages to choose. The lady helping me laughed when I hesitated between two patterns (she said the blue would suit my “travel face,” whatever that means). My hair never sits right but she pinned it up with such care I almost didn’t recognize myself in the mirror. There was this faint scent of tatami and something sweet, maybe plum blossom? Not sure, but it stuck with me all morning.

We shuffled over to the tea room—a little old, creaky floorboards, tucked not far from Daitoku-ji Temple. Our tea master, who’s apparently spent 30 years perfecting this art, greeted us with a bow deeper than mine could ever go. She explained bits of Japanese tea culture as she worked: every gesture slow and deliberate. When she whisked the matcha, the sound was almost hypnotic. I tried copying her later and made a bit of a mess—she smiled and showed me again without a hint of impatience.

The sweets came out before the tea—delicate, seasonal things that melted away before I even realized what flavor they were. Sitting there in my borrowed kimono, sharing silence with strangers (and one giggling local kid who’d tagged along), I felt oddly at home. Not sure why that moment sticks so much—maybe because it was simple and nobody rushed us or tried to sell anything extra. Just a real Kyoto tea ceremony experience, with all its tiny details and soft pauses.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kimono dressing and tea ceremony experience

• Choose kimono from Nishijin collection
• Get hair set assistance
• Put on kimono
• Take simple photo shoot
• Attend traditional tea ceremony
• Enjoy tea with seasonal sweets
• Learn tea ceremony history and etiquette
• Prepare your own tea

Top questions

Is kimono rental included in this Kyoto tea ceremony?

Yes, you’ll choose and wear a kimono from their collection as part of the experience.

Where does the tea ceremony take place?

The ceremony is held near Daitoku-ji Temple and Imamiya Jinjya Shrine in Kyoto.

Who leads the tea ceremony?

A professional instructor or tea master with decades of experience guides you through the process.

Are Japanese sweets served during the ceremony?

Yes, you’ll be served seasonal Japanese sweets before enjoying matcha green tea.

Is this activity suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

How do I get to the location?

The venue is accessible by public transportation in Kyoto.

Will someone help with my hair for the kimono?

Yes, staff will assist with your hair set before dressing you in your chosen kimono.

Can I take photos during the experience?

A simple photo shoot is included after you’re dressed in your kimono.

What’s included

Your day includes expert guidance from an experienced tea master, use of a beautiful kimono from Nishijin (with help dressing and hair set), seasonal Japanese sweets paired with matcha green tea during the ceremony itself—and time for photos so you can remember how it all felt afterward.