Walking through the gate into Urakuen Garden in Inuyama, the sound of cicadas give way to the hushed rustling of bamboo leaves and the trickle of water over stone. Tucked behind pine trees and winding garden paths is one of the most revered sites in the world of Japanese tea: the Jo-an tea house.
Designated a National Treasure, the Jo-an tea house pioneered tea house design in the Edo era and is what most other tea houses are modeled after. Visiting a location of such importance might seem intimidating, especially for those who have never seen a tea ceremony before. But, with a bit of background, some etiquette basics, and an open mind, tea ceremony at Urakuen can be one of the most peaceful, enlightening experiences of your journey through Japan.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect at the Tea Ceremony in Urakuen
1. Entering the Tea House
Upon entering the tea house, you’ll remove your shoes and step into the minimalist interior. You’ll be led to a tatami room where guests traditionally sit on their feet with their legs folded underneath them (a position called seiza). However, it is also acceptable to sit cross-legged or with legs to one side. There are even chairs available should you need one.
2. Receiving the Sweet
Before tea is served, you’ll be presented with a traditional wagashi sweet. Take the small wooden pick, cut the sweet into pieces, and enjoy. Its subtle sweetness balances the bitterness of the matcha to come.
3. Drinking the Tea
When the tea arrives in a handcrafted Inuyama-ware bowl, bow in thanks first to the server, then to the person next to you as an apology for being served first. Lift the bowl with both hands and turn it clockwise twice. The reason for turning it is so you don’t sip from the decorative front.
When you are ready, take a few small sips until the bowl is empty, then, admire the bowl. The bowls themselves are considered to be works of art.
4. Give Appreciation
Finally bow once again in gratitude.
5. Closing Rituals
After everyone has finished, the guide will share the meaning behind the scroll and flower arrangement displayed in the tokonoma alcove. These are chosen with the season in mind and often carry poetic or spiritual symbolism.
Why Urakuen Is So Special
While tea ceremonies are held throughout Japan, Urakuen was specifically built to be a setting for the tea ceremony and to honor the legacy of Oda Uraku, a samurai, diplomat, and devoted tea practitioner. A student of the legendary Sen no Rikyū, Uraku balanced his mentor’s rustic minimalism with elegant flourishes—seen in the black lacquer trim of Jo-anand the openness of its architecture.
Designer Horiguchi Sutemi, with deep reverence, rebuilt Urakuen in the 1970s using Edo-period blueprints and the original tea house transported from Kyoto. His reconstruction of the garden is widely considered the most accurate and heartfelt in modern tea history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to know Japanese to attend the ceremony?
No. English speaking guides from Snow Monkey Resorts provide explanations and additional information in English, especially during the tea ceremony.
What should I wear?
Smart-casual clothing is appropriate. Avoid short skirts (you’ll be sitting on the floor), strong perfumes, or flashy accessories that may distract from the ceremony’s atmosphere. You will also have to take your shoes off, so easy to remove footwear is recommended.
How long does the tea ceremony last?
The entire experience, including garden strolling and tea, typically takes 45–60 minutes.
Can I take photos?
Photography is allowed in most parts of the garden, but not during the ceremony unless explicitly permitted. When in doubt, ask staff.
Can children attend?
Yes! Many children enjoy exploring the garden and seeing the teahouse that started the trend. Although their enjoyment depends on their age and attentiveness. The atmosphere is very quiet and respectful, which may be challenging for younger kids.
How to I participate in a Tea Ceremony at Urakuen?
We, at Snow Monkey Resorts, are proud to include a tea ceremony experience as part of our tour of Urakuen and Inuyama castle.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan's Oldest Castle.
Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword, meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife, and stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food under the shadow of Japan's oldest original castle.
Where can I learn more about Tea Ceremony?
If you are interested in matcha, Japanese sweets, or cooking, you will love our tour of Nishio. This tour includes a look into how matcha is made (from field to bowl) as well as a cooking class where you get to make your own wagashi sweets.
Recommended Tour: Step away from the hustle of modern Japan and into a world where centuries-old traditions meet unparalleled craftsmanship on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Matcha, Confections, and Traditions in Nishio.
From crafting your own tea ceremony sweets to a behind the scenes look at the production of premium quality matcha, this tour will take you deeper into one of Japan’s most treasured traditions than ever before. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur, a culinary enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this is an opportunity to experience Japan in a way that few ever do.
Additional Tips for First-Time Guests
- Focus on the Moment: The tea ceremony is less about tea and more about being present.
- Ask Questions After: Our guides are passionate about tea culture and the history of Inuyama and love to share stories.
- Don’t be Afraid to Do Things “Wrong.” The Japanese tea ceremony isn’t about being “correct.” It’s about being sincere.
