Crowd of people crossing a busy street at dusk in a brightly lit urban area with tall buildings and illuminated billboards in Shibuya, Tokyo.

Hand pouring tea from a black teapot into small white ceramic cups with light yellow tea on a wooden surface.

You Have to Attend a Japanese Tea Ceremony

The Ocharu Tea Ceremony is so much more than a simple green tea toast–it is a vibrant display of tradition and history. Not only will you brew your own matcha using centuries-old, secret recipes, you’ll also taste an array of Japanese delicacies while you immerse yourself in the culture. Let’s talk about why you’ve gotta check these ceremonies out:

Upon your arrival, you will be greeted with a welcome care package. First, you’ll savor a cup of wakocha, a Japanese black tea from Shizuoka that is rich in both flavor and history. Just like many centuries of Japanese heritage, you’ll pair that cup with a traditional tea cake that is both fruity and floral. As you sit in the sacred Tea Ceremony Room, you’ll be able to feel the ritual’s strong sense of tradition.

Three women sharing a moment while preparing and enjoying tea at a wooden table with tea utensils.

A man wearing a traditional Japanese robe pouring tea from a red teapot into white cups.

Then, you’ll gaze in awe as you watch tea masters brew the infamous Gyokuro sencha, a.k.a the highest grade of green tea. This is like the LeBron James of green tea. The exotic tea leaves come right from Ougiya, a renowned brewer that has spent centuries perfecting their recipes. Plus, you get to pair that savory tea with wagashi–a traditional, tasty Japanese sweet. Next, the throne is yours: it’s time to brew your own matcha.

Don’t worry, tea masters will expertly guide you every step of the way. You’ll use ancient tools to whisk a matcha blend, using a recipe that has been around for generations. The process is peaceful, stress-free, and might make you wish you were born centuries ago. As you become one with the tea, you will be fully immersed in Japanese culture. Finally, you’ll finish off your tea journey with a soothing cup of Genmaicha, a calming blend best for winding down.

Black teapot filled with loose green tea leaves next to small glass plates each holding a portion of tea leaves.

Hands holding a white cup filled with green tea over a dark surface.

As you sip and savor: the burning incense, calming artwork, and earthy vibes will keep you zen and grounded. To pair with that mindfulness, you will get a certification of completion for your hard work. Lastly, you’ll take a group photo to make the moment last.Not only is this cultural immersion inexpensive ($30), it is only hour long, making it easy to flex into any schedule.

The venue is right near Tokyo University, so you’ll be right in the mix. Location aside, the friendly and informative staff has decades of experience and speaks fluent English. With over 450 reviews, this ceremony grades out at 4.9/5 stars, we’d say that's pretty good.

Book the Traditional Tea Ceremony

Two women smiling indoors, one in a beige hoodie and the other in a light blue traditional kimono holding a certificate with Japanese text.

So get in there. Don’t just savor the taste, savor the vibes and the strong sense of culture. This experience is once-in-a-lifetime, so take the hour out of your busy day to indulge in a tradition you will never find back home.

Written by: Nick Faggio