When you visit Kyoto, you can't miss one of the most special experience to know the authentic cultures of Kyoto. "Tea Ceremony"
Tea itself was introduced to Japan in 9th centuary from China as medicine by the famous priest, Eisai who went to Cina to lean Buddhism.
Afterwards it was highered into the art with a strong connection with Zen meditation.
Quiet simplicity and subodued refinement (wabi-sabi) is the tea ceremony of today was introduced in the late 16th century.
Just a five minutes east from the main gates of the Nishi Honganji, near from Kyoto station.
You can experience an authentic Tea Ceremony with Kyoto Tea Master at Bikoen Tea House.
Tea Ceremony is much more than just drinking good green tea, but a "Ceremonious Ritual", the way of entertaining guests with tea.
There are many procedures to follow, emphasizing "Spiritual Exchange" between the host and guests.
The four principles of the way of tea are Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquilty.
"Tea tastes good when it is served well," says Mr.Hashimoto, the Tea Master, "so I wanted to provide a space that would give my customers a chance to learn more about how to serve and receive tea so that it tastes good."
Why don't you attend this authentic tea ceremony for spiritual and artistic experience! :)
When you attend a tea ceremony, you will be sitting in a tatami room.
The proper way to sit is to fold your legs under you,
but don't worry, Bikoen is very friendly to overseas customers who don't get used to tatami culture, so you can enjoy while sitting on a chair.
Bikoen has been providing tea to the nearby residence of the 13th generation Grand Master of the Yabunouchi tradition of tea.
The Yabunouchi family has introduced the aesthetics of serving tea to the generations of Nishi Hongwanji priests of all ranks.
Bikouen
TEL: 075-371-1013
Store Closed: Sunday and Japanese National Holidays
COURSES: Tea ceremony
FEE: 2,500yen
* Reservation needed in advance by phone.
It is a tea shop at the front and a house at the back.
So after enjoying some kinds of tea, you can buy the good tea at the store as souvenir!
Enjoy "Purity of Spirit", it's nice to take a tea break!
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