Kumamoto Cooking Class
Omotesenke Tea Ceremony: An Immersive Cultural Experience

Kumamoto
★★★★★ 2

House

Pick Up

Vegetarian

1 hours

Max 4 guests

Market Visiting






Cooking Class Menu

To bring the culture of Omotesenke tea ceremony closer to everyone, we offer experiential courses that differ from traditional tea ceremony classes. Each month, we focus on a different theme related to the history of the tea ceremony, famous tea masters, tea utensils, and matcha. These topics are explained clearly with accompanying slides.

During the tea ceremony experience, you will practice the guest's movements, including how to enter the tea room. Why not enjoy an intellectual experience while savoring two servings of thin tea and seasonal sweets?

· What to bring: White socks
· Dress code: Western-style clothing is acceptable (mini-skirts and low-cut shirts are not allowed)

  • Tea Ceremony

    Tea Ceremony

    The Japanese tea ceremony is a centuries-old tradition closely tied to Zen Buddhist principles, and a popular way to experience Japanese culture. There are several variations on this ritual. At its base, powdered green tea (matcha) is prepared and served in accordance with strict rules. Oftentimes, wagashi (Japanese sweets) is served alongside the bitter green tea.

Cooking Class Information

Participants in these experiential courses can learn and experience a variety of aspects related to the Omotesenke tea ceremony. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Cultural Insight:
- Gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of the Omotesenke tea ceremony.


2. Thematic Knowledge:
- Each month, participants will explore different themes, providing a broad and varied knowledge base. These themes might include the historical context of the tea ceremony, details about tea utensils, and the intricacies of matcha.

3. Visual Learning:
- Benefit from clear explanations supplemented by slides, enhancing comprehension and retention of the material.

4. Practical Experience:
- Practice the guest's movements and proper etiquette, including how to enter the tea room correctly, which is a crucial aspect of the tea ceremony.

5. Sensory Enjoyment:
- Enjoy two servings of thin tea (usucha) and sweets, allowing participants to experience the taste and aesthetics of the tea ceremony.

6. Intellectual Engagement:
- Engage intellectually with the traditions and philosophies underpinning the tea ceremony, making the experience both educational and enriching.

Overall, participants will gain a holistic appreciation of the Omotesenke tea ceremony, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills and sensory experiences.


What you will do


The Tea Flower Arrangement Experience!

1. The Tea Flower Arrangement Experience!

This photo showcases a hands-on experience with a tea flower arrangement, an integral aspect of Japanese tea culture. The practice emphasizes simplicity, natural beauty, and seasonal awareness, aligning with the values of the tea ceremony.

Purification at the Tsukubai (Stone Water Basin)

2. Purification at the Tsukubai (Stone Water Basin)

Begin your journey with a symbolic purification at the tsukubai (stone water basin), learning its meaning and performing this mindful ritual. This practice prepares you to enter the tearoom with a calm and focused spirit, embodying the essence of humility and respect central to the tea ceremony.

The Unique Seasonal Practice of Tsubo Kazari!

3. The Unique Seasonal Practice of Tsubo Kazari!

In November, immerse yourself in the unique seasonal practice of tsubo kazari (壺飾り), a traditional display of tea storage jars. Begin with an explanation of the significance and seasonal relevance of the tsubo kazari, followed by a hands-on experience where you learn to appreciate the jar through proper etiquette.


About Host


host-RURIKO

RURIKO

★★★★★ (2)

Welcome to our Tea Ceremony Experience! My name is Ruriko (Tea name: Soryu) Yamakawa, a certified instructor of Omotesenke, and I will be thrilled to be your host in my brand-new tea room.

With a deep passion for the art of tea, I have spent years mastering the intricate traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony. I am excited to share this beautiful practice with you.

In our time together, you will savor exquisite teas and explore the rich history, detailed rituals, and serene ambiance that define the Japanese tea ceremony. Whether you are a seasoned tea enthusiast or new to this tradition, I am here to guide you and ensure a memorable and enlightening experience.

Welcome to our tea room.


Area



The closest station

Kumamoto Prefectural Office Bus Stop




How to get to the station?

From Kumamoto Station: 35mins





Exact location provided after booking.


Reviews of Cooking Class

Ranjit , Netherlands

★★★★★

The tea ceremony with Ruriko was really a wonderful experience! Me and my friend got some great tea and sweets, but mostly Ruriko was so nice to us and she was interested in our story and our contries. We shared things about our cultures for about half an hour after the ceremony. During the ceremony she gave clear feedback when we did something wrong or right. Also the presentation we got was focussed on the current season. I would recommend it to anyone! Thank you for the experience Ruriko, I will definitely integrate it in moments with friends at home. Greetings, Ranjit

Nov 2024


host-RURIKO

Response from RURIKO
Dear Ranjit, Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful review! It was truly a pleasure to share the tea ceremony experience with you and your friend. I enjoyed learning about your stories and cultures just as much as you enjoyed the tea and sweets. Connecting on such a personal level is what makes each session so special! I'm glad you appreciated the seasonal focus and guidance during the ceremony. The beauty of the tea ceremony lies in these small details, and it warms my heart to know you plan to share this spirit with your friends at home. Thank you again for your recommendation. I hope our paths cross again—until then, may your tea moments be filled with harmony and joy. Warmest regards, Ruriko


Pauline, France

★★★★★

Thank you for this awesome experience ! Ruriko was so very kind and thoughtful. She took time to explain the ritual of tea ceremony, from cleaning our hands and mouth before entering the tea room to the floral arrangement. She told us about the origin of tea ceremony and show us how to make matcha. She was very interesting and even recommended some places to visit in Kumamoto and shops to buy tea. If you are a tea lover, we can only advise you to visit Ruriko to have a beautiful moment. And she speaks a perfect English. Enjoy !

Oct 2024


host-RURIKO

Response from RURIKO
Hello Pauline and Aurore, Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review! It was a true pleasure sharing the Omotesenke Tea Ceremony experience with you. I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed learning about the tea ritual, the floral arrangement, and the history behind it all. I’m also glad the recommendations were helpful during your time in Kumamoto. It was wonderful to connect with you both, and I hope our tea ceremony left you with warm memories of your visit. If you ever return to Japan, I would love to welcome you back for another special tea experience. Thank you again, and I wish you all the best on your continued travels. Warm regards, Ruriko


FAQ about Omotesenke Tea Ceremony: An Immersive Cultural Experience | Cooking class by RURIKO

  • How much does it cost to join Omotesenke Tea Ceremony: An Immersive Cultural Experience?

    It costs 4000 per person.

  • How long is this cooking class by RURIKO?

    Duration of this cooking class is 1 hours.

  • What is the maximum capacity of RURIKO's cooking class?

    Up to 4 people can join RURIKO's cooking class.

Additional cooking class information

  • Confirmation

    You will receive the confirmation within 24 hours.

  • Payment

    We accepts these cards on airKitchen.

  • Cancellation

    Cancellations up to 48 hours prior to the class begins will be fully refunded by the airKitchen cancellation policy.


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