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Highlights
- Participate in a tea ceremony while dressed in a traditional kimono at Nishijin Tondaya, an iconic machiya townhouse located within Kyoto's Imperial Palace Area.
- Explore the authentic tea culture of Japan by visiting this historic merchant house constructed in 1885 and recognized as a National Cultural Heritage site.
- Select from wearing a standard kimono or opt for an upgrade to a premium silk version, enhancing your traditional experience with elegance.
- Discover the grandeur of a Meiji-era kimono wholesaler's residence at Nishijin Tondaya, complete with classic architecture and serene inner gardens.
Your Experience
Explore the cultural heritage of Kyoto by wearing a kimono and participating in an authentic tea ceremony within a historic machiya. This distinct experience blends the artistry of Japanese dress with the tradition of tea ceremonies.
Getting Started
Upon arrival at Nishijin Tondaya, proceed to reception for check-in. Present your booking confirmation and prepare to change into your chosen kimono. Remember to remove shoes before entering the machiya, as flash photography and tripods are not allowed.
Nishijin Tondaya
Discover Nishijin Tondaya, a preserved townhouse from 1885 recognized as a National Cultural Heritage site in Kyoto's Imperial Palace Area. This historic structure offers insight into the architectural style of Meiji-era kimono wholesalers.
Features
- Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, often performed in the Ryureiseki style with chair seating.
- Dress in a regular kimono paired with an obi sash for your visit.
- Explore the unique architectural features of this Meiji-era residence used by kimono wholesalers, including narrow entrances and long corridors leading to inner gardens.
Upgrades
You have the option to upgrade to a premium silk kimono for an enhanced traditional experience.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Shared or private group session, based on the chosen option
- Tea ceremony experience featuring Ryureiseki style seating
- Regular kimono with obi sash provided during the visit
- Premium silk kimono with obi sash available if selected as an upgrade
- Entry to Nishijin Tondaya machiya house included
- Please ensure you have socks with you.
- Traditional Japanese wooden sandals, known as geta, are not provided.
- Hair styling services are unavailable during the tour.
- Makeup application is not included in this package.
- Lunch will need to be arranged separately.
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Must Know
- Please bring white socks as shoes must be removed before entering Nishijin Tondaya.
- Flash photography and tripods are not allowed inside the venue to preserve its cultural integrity.
- The experience is held in a historic machiya townhouse, which is not wheelchair accessible. Please plan accordingly if you require accessibility accommodations.
- Akimono for men is available; avoid tight-fitting clothing like turtlenecks when dressing up for the ceremony to ensure comfort and ease of wearing traditional attire.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
These tickets can't be rescheduled or cancelled.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.
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