Enjoy Traditional Architecture & Kaiseki Lunch at a Historic Restaurant — Includes Tea Ceremony

Genyadana Hamadaya: A Century-Old Traditional Dining Experience

Established in 1912, Genyadana Hamadaya is a well-known ryotei restaurant tucked in a corner of the nostalgic Nihonbashi Ningyocho district. With over a century of history, this living heritage has preserved many rare furnishings and artworks that cannot be found elsewhere.

Beyond the grand gate, it feels like a different world

"Everything here is irreplaceable," says owner Keiko Mita. Hamadaya has preserved heirlooms passed down through generations. Mita, both graceful and charming, is also known for her thoughtfulness, earning her admiration from guests and the waitstaff.

Follow her lead into the rich world of Hamadaya

Exploring Ancestral "Treasures" of Hamadaya

The tour begins in the parlor, where you will delve into the history of Hamadaya and Ningyocho, reflecting on the bygone streets. During the Edo period (1603-1868), Ningyocho was home to around 300 bunraku puppet theaters and numerous puppeteers, hence earning it the name "Ningyocho" (literally, doll/puppet town). Its artistic legacy endures in the form of the Kabuki-za Theater. Additionally, the district thrived as a Karyu (a traditional dance style) area, producing Japan's first modern actress, Sadayakko Kawakami.

What works will you see?

After learning about the history of Ningyocho and Hamadaya, it is time to visit the tatami room. Here, you will have a chance to admire the sukiya-style architecture and the heirloom furnishings and artwork passed down through generations in Hamadaya. In the alcove, rich with Japanese aesthetics, hanging scrolls, paintings, and flower arrangements capture the essence of the four seasons and festive spirits. “Everything is authentic," says Mita as she gazes at works by renowned masters (displayed artworks vary with the season).

Hear stories behind each artwork

Sukiya-Style Architecture Comes to Life with Seasonal Decorations

This experience is a rare opportunity to observe sukiya-style architecture, which features a simple yet refined design, highlighting the natural texture of wood. In the building, each tatami room overlooks a Japanese garden that transforms with the seasons. The tokonoma (alcove) displays hanging scrolls and ikebana arrangements, capturing the essence of each season and expressing the spirit of hospitality.

Enter a unique space, away from everyday life

Experience the warmth of wood and the subtle scent of tatami mats in a room filled with a rich Japanese atmosphere. Feel the unique ambiance not just visually, but also on your skin. "The house seems alive, breathing with the flowing air. You can sense that atmosphere," notes Mita. Immerse yourself in the silence, and let your mind be sharpened.

"Snow Room" features a delicately carved snow pattern in the floor

Savor a Private Mini Kaiseki Lunch Experience

After enjoying the view, relax in a private room with a sunken kotatsu for a laid-back lunch. The specially crafted "mini kaiseki" lunch in this experience includes appetizers, soup, sashimi, a grilled dish, a simmered dish, rice (with miso soup and pickles), and a sweet dish for a complete kaiseki meal (drinks are not included in the experience fee).

Seasonal mini kaiseki lunch course

The chef prepares kaiseki dishes with the finest seasonal ingredients, presenting them with a stylish seasonal touch. The use of precious, generational tableware enhances the beauty of each dish.

The waitress provides detailed explanations for each dish. The precious tableware adds to the experience

Experience the traditional sukiya-style ambiance and thoughtful hospitality of the restaurant. The flavors will delight your senses, satisfying both your appetite and mind. Take a break from your daily routine and savor this special moment.

For an extra charge, invite two geisha to the tatami room and relish a lavish time in a private setting, blending the meal with dancing, singing, and music. The experience of dining while enjoying the skilled performance of these geisha is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Memories of a lifetime with geisha (images for reference only)

Japanese Hospitality: Tea Ceremony

Following lunch, experience a Japanese tea ceremony performed in the ryurei style, where guests sit on chairs. This allows even those not comfortable sitting on the floor to participate with ease. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and savor a cup of the finest tea.

Be mesmerized by the elegant actions performed with stunning tea utensils

A Treasured Moment of Serenity

Discover Hamadaya's rich historical charm, refining your eye for beauty in this educational experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan for a moment of healing.

Escape the city noise, and journey back to a bygone era