Discover the Art of Tea with a Tea Ceremony & Japanese-Influenced French Cuisine

Discover Tea in a Space Infused with Zen Tranquility

Kagurazaka in Tokyo seamlessly intertwines the old and the new, with historic shrines and temples alongside contemporary restaurants and cafes. In this town, nestled among its serene cobblestone alleys, your experience takes place at HASABON—an old private house in a back alley just steps away from Kagurazaka Station's main street.

A Tranquil Oasis Away from the City's Hubbub

Derived from the Zen phrase "hasabon," meaning "a broken mortar that is no longer useful" and symbolizing a state of maturity, HASABON showcases diverse aspects of "the goodness of Japan." Experience a Japanese-style tearoom, a French restaurant incorporating Japanese tea, and a gallery featuring Japanese pottery. As the name implies, a unique experience unfolds in the second-floor gallery of this old private house, preserving the gentle charm of aged pillars and beams, with light streaming in from the atrium.

Experience the Japanese Art of Tea With All Five Senses

Your experience starts with a tea ceremony led by a certified instructor from the Urasenke school of tea ceremony and the Dai Nihon Chado Gakkai (Tea Ceremony Association). Enjoy tea sweets as you listen to a talk on tea ceremony basics and tea vessels. Then, move to the modern tatami room to observe and learn to serve tea. Feel free to sit comfortably on the floor, cross-legged, or on a chair. The instructor encourages a relaxed atmosphere, emphasizing it as a non-practice session.

Immerse yourself in the Japanese art of tea with all your senses

Indulge in the Luxury of Carefully Preparing a Cup of Tea

Now, it is time for a tea ceremony experience with you as the host. Choose your preferred matcha bowl from a range of colors and shapes, and follow the instructor's guidance through a series of tea ceremony steps. The seemingly simple gestures of the tea ceremony carry profound meaning. Through hands-on practice, you will develop a richer comprehension of the art. Enjoy the luxury of carefully preparing a single cup of tea, taking your time, and infusing it with genuine intention. Accompanying your tea, you will be served delightful seasonal Japanese sweets.

A moment of serenity and focus in the tea ceremony

HASABON doubles as a ceramic art gallery, showcasing pieces from contemporary ceramic artists across Japan. From water jugs for tea ceremonies and flower vases to everyday plates and bowls, the store is adorned with their creations. Take a moment to appreciate these artworks during your visit, and if something catches your eye, feel free to make a purchase.

If the ceramic pieces catch your eye, they are available for purchase

Japanese-Influenced Cuisine by a French-Trained Chef

Lunch (or opt for dinner for an additional charge)  is a French-inspired mini-course centered around the theme of tea and seasonal Japanese ingredients. Chef Takahiro Kosaka, overseeing the cuisine, brings a blend of French expertise gained in France and experience from Japanese restaurants. He fuses French techniques with Japanese ingredients, crafting dishes bursting with seasonal flavors. These culinary creations are skillfully showcased on carefully selected dishes acquired directly from artists across Japan. The chef's mastery is evident not only in the taste but also in the visual appeal and intriguing ingredient combinations.

Chef Takahiro Kosaka's unique blend of Japanese and Western flavors in his original French cuisine has garnered high praise

The lunch offers a selection of seasonal dishes, including soup, salad, bread, a main course, and a dessert-inspired latte. (Dinner includes an amuse-bouche, four appetizers, fish, meat, dessert, and matcha green tea.)

For an extra charge, explore the food and drink pairings. Opt for alcohol pairing featuring carefully selected beverages like natural wine or sake, perfectly complementing the daily dish. Alternatively, try tea pairing with carefully brewed Japanese tea or high-quality organic bottled tea, a delightful combination with your meal.

Noteworthy is not only the beauty of the food itself but also its harmonious presentation with the dishware

Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of HASABON for a truly rejuvenating experience, where you can discover the profound charm of tea. It might even lead to a newfound appreciation for the richness of "good Japanese things." We look forward to welcoming you soon.