Tokyo Asakusa: Tea Ceremony with Kimono & Two-Bowl Matcha

4.99

(136 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway into our kimonos when I realized how odd it felt to have someone else tie the sash for you—my host, Emi-san, laughed softly and said my sleeves looked “very Tokyo spring.” The room smelled faintly of tatami mats and something sweet I couldn’t place at first (turns out, it was the wagashi). There were maybe ten of us, all a bit awkward but curious, shuffling into seats around a low table. No kneeling required—thank goodness. I glanced at the others and caught someone else grinning at their reflection in the lacquered tray.

The tea ceremony started quietly. Our guide explained each movement—the way she turned the bowl, her careful gestures—and even though we sat at tables, there was this hush that made me forget we were just off a busy street in Asakusa. When she whisked the matcha for us, the sound was almost like rain on paper. I didn’t expect to feel nervous making my own bowl after watching her; my hands shook a little holding the bamboo whisk. But Emi-san nodded encouragingly and said my foam looked “almost perfect.” I still think about that first sip—bitter and grassy but somehow comforting, especially with the soft wagashi melting right after.

Afterwards we had time for photos (I’m not usually one for posing but honestly, wearing a kimono in Tokyo felt too good to pass up). Someone asked about the history of tea ceremonies and our host shared how rare it is—even in Japan—to do both watching and making your own matcha in one session. We lingered longer than planned. Outside, you could hear distant temple bells mixing with city sounds—kind of surreal when you’re still wrapped up in silk.