[Kyoto, Higashiyama] Experience "Moving Zen"! Sencha tea ceremony workshop hosted by a foreigner (Empty-handed, beginners welcome)

This comprehensive plan allows you to "watch, learn, and experience" the art of Sencha tea ceremony in Kyoto's magnificent, golden tea room. First, experience a tea ceremony led by a foreign host who is an experienced Sencha tea master (or associate master). The tea ceremony will be performed in accordance with the Obaku-Uesha school of Sencha tea ceremony, allowing you to experience up close the dignified manners and elegant atmosphere. Enjoy the delicate and rich flavor of high-quality Japanese tea (gyokuro) brewed by the host in the tea ceremony room, along with the sophisticated ambiance of the tea room. The ceremony will be held in the taterei style (chairs and tables), so even those who are not comfortable sitting in seiza (Japanese traditional sitting position) can enjoy it. *The type of tea ceremony may change depending on the season and the number of participants. In the workshop that follows, participants will attempt the basics of tea ceremony on their own. First, they will receive a thorough lecture on the use and handling of tea utensils, followed by a dry practice of the steps. In the practical step, participants will actually brew tea with the host, mastering the key points of water temperature and pouring technique, and learning beautiful manners and mindset. The small group size and beginner-friendly nature of the experience make it easy to ask questions, and we offer thorough support. To conclude, enjoy a relaxed conversation with your host as you savor the tea you brewed and seasonal Japanese sweets from a long-established Kyoto shop. Share your thoughts on the flavors and savor the tranquil aftertaste, enjoying a luxurious experience unique to Kyoto. ◆Experience Schedule◆ ① Greetings and Orientation: Your host will introduce himself and explain the contents of the experience. ② Learn about Senchado and Japanese Tea: Learn about the history and characteristics of Senchado and its differences from Chanoyu (Chanoyu) (Matcha). See tea leaves firsthand and learn about the varieties and unique characteristics of Japanese tea. ③ Enjoy the Tea Ceremony: Watch a traditional tea ceremony and experience the atmosphere of a tea ceremony. You will be served a cup of high-quality Japanese tea brewed by your host. You can choose to have the explanation (at the time of the session) or after the session. *Content varies depending on the season and number of participants. ④ Workshop/Lecture: Learn about the uses and handling of tea utensils, and practice the steps in a virtual environment. ⑤ Workshop/Practice: Prepare hot water and tea leaves, and brew tea with your host using the practiced steps. ⑥ Enjoy Tea and Sweets: Savor the tea you brewed and seasonal Japanese sweets from a long-established Kyoto shop. ⑦ Q&A/Reflection: Free questions and additional explanations. ◆ 5 Great Features of This Plan ◆ ① Experience an authentic tea ceremony unique to a Kyoto teahouse with the expert guidance of a foreign host. ② The "Ryurei-shiki" style tea ceremony is held at a table and chairs. No need to sit in seiza (Japanese traditional sitting position), making it a comfortable experience even for elderly people or those accompanied by foreign friends. ③ Three steps: Watch → Learn → Practice. A small group allows for easy questioning, and careful support is provided, right down to the hands-on experience. ④ Learn about the philosophy and aesthetics of Senchado, the role of tea utensils, and Japanese tea, with accompanying commentary. ⑤ Enjoy the tea you brewed and seasonal Japanese sweets, and master the art of brewing delicious Japanese tea.