Kenrokuen Tea Ceremony Experience: Embrace the Spirit of Ichi-go Ichi-e

For those planning to visit Kanazawa, expectations are high for engaging in a special activity. One of the most recommended activities is the Kenrokuen Tea Ceremony Experience. This experience offers a chance to relax and enjoy a moment of tranquility through the traditional Japanese culture of the tea ceremony. I have actually participated in this tea ceremony experience and would like to share its details.

Overview of the Kenrokuen Tea Ceremony Experience

Kenrokuen Garden is one of Kanazawa’s most famous landmarks, where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. The tea ceremony experience at Kenrokutei, located within Kenrokuen Garden, offers a valuable opportunity for tourists to experience Japanese culture up close and personal. The tea ceremony is not just about making and drinking tea; it carries deep spirituality and etiquette, allowing visitors to experience the essence of the Japanese concept of “ichi-go ichi-e” (a once-in-a-lifetime encounter) through a cup of tea.

Flow of the Experience

1. Meeting Place and Time

For the tea ceremony experience, you will meet in front of the Fountain in Kenrokuen. It is recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time, where the staff will greet you in front of the information sign. Please note that admission to Kenrokuen is not included in the tea ceremony fee, so it is advisable to purchase a ticket in advance.

2. Guided Tour to Kenrokutei

After being welcomed by the staff, you will walk from the Fountain to Kenrokutei, specifically the Hasuike-tei (Lotus Pond Pavilion). This short walk is also an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kenrokuen Garden. Especially in spring and autumn, the garden’s scenery, adorned with flowers and autumn leaves, is spectacular and enchanting to visitors.

3. Explanation and Demonstration of the Tea Ceremony

Upon arrival at Kenrokutei, you will first receive a basic explanation of the tea ceremony. Explanations are provided in both Japanese and English, making it accessible even for those new to the tea ceremony. Following the explanation, a demonstration is given by the tea ceremony instructor. Watching the instructor carefully explain the meaning behind each action and the origins of the manners while preparing tea is a calming experience that naturally encourages mindfulness.

4. “Ippuku” – Enjoying Tea

After the demonstration, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the tea prepared by the instructor. At this time, a set of seasonal fresh and dried sweets, made by a long-established wagashi shop in Kanazawa, will be served. The delicate sweetness of the wagashi and the bitterness of the matcha create a harmonious flavor unique to Japan. You can also observe the instructor’s movements to learn the nuances of making tea yourself.

5. “Jifuku” – Making Tea Yourself

Next, participants will have the chance to make tea themselves. The instructor will carefully guide you on how to use the chasen (tea whisk) and how to prepare tea, so even beginners can feel comfortable trying it out. While you may feel a little nervous at first, whisking the powdered tea with the chasen becomes a pleasant rhythm, allowing you to gradually immerse yourself in the process. The moment you drink the tea you have made yourself, you will feel a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

6. Commemorative Photo

After the tea ceremony, all participants will take a commemorative photo together. The staff will take pictures with your camera, allowing you to preserve the memories of the experience. The beautiful Kenrokuen Garden can also serve as a backdrop during the photo shoot, providing a wonderful keepsake of your trip.

7. Stroll Around Kenrokuen Garden and Dismissal

After the tea ceremony experience, you are free to explore Kenrokuen at your leisure. Although the tea house does not offer a direct view of the garden, strolling through the garden after the experience and enjoying its natural beauty is an exceptional experience. Taking your time to explore the garden, once loved by the Maeda feudal lords, will give you a deeper sense of Kanazawa’s history and culture.

The Appeal of the Tea Ceremony Experience

Kenrokutei is a historic site where feudal lords once entertained important guests. The tea ceremony experience in this setting offers a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of traditional Japanese culture and find a sense of tranquility. Another major attraction of this experience is the wagashi sweets offered by a long-established wagashi shop in Kanazawa. The seasonal wagashi are not only beautiful to look at but also pair perfectly with the matcha green tea.

Things to Know Before the Experience

There are a few things to keep in mind before participating in this experience. First, since the tea ceremony takes place in a teahouse within Kenrokuen Garden, an entrance fee to Kenrokuen Garden is required(320JPY). It is also important to strictly observe the meeting time, as arriving late may result in the cancellation of your reservation.

Conclusion

The Kenrokuen Tea Ceremony Experience is one of the best activities for those visiting Kanazawa. By strolling through the beautiful garden and experiencing a tea ceremony at the historic Kenrokutei, you can deeply engage with traditional Japanese culture. Through this experience, you will gain a deeper appreciation of the charms of Kanazawa.