Tea Ceremony in a Special Tea Room at a Cha-Kaiseki Restaurant in Tokyo —With One-Soup, Three-Dish Lunch

Tea Ceremony at Sokkon, An Urban Hideaway for Cha-kaiseki

Located in Minami-Aoyama, Sokkon is tucked away below street level on Omotesando Kotto-dori. Founded by Soukou Udagawa, the 18th-generation master of the Sowa school of tea ceremony, this cha-kaiseki restaurant fuses Japanese and Western styles. It features a spacious hall, two intimate rooms, and even a permanent bar. The course menu is designed for a relaxed experience, allowing you to enjoy the simple pleasure of tea, regardless of tradition or formality.

A small tea room at Sokkon bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, creating a magical ambiance

The main appeal is the chance to experience "chaji," often considered the pinnacle of the tea ceremony. In this traditional Japanese custom, the host invites a small group of guests to enjoy kaiseki, drinks, and a tea ceremony. With Wabunka's exclusive plan, you'll learn the basics of tea ceremony etiquette while enjoying a one-soup, three-dishes cha-kaiseki lunch in the tea room.

Experience tea ceremony and learn basic manners in a tea room

A Chaji Guided by Soukou Udagawa, 18th Head of the Sowa School

This experience is supervised by Soukou Udagawa, the 18th head of the Sowa school of tea ceremony. The Sowa school was founded by Sowa Kanamori, a 16th-century tea master from Takayama, Hida, who moved to Kyoto and created a unique tea ceremony style called "Himesowa." His style became popular in temples and among the imperial family and nobles. This is a rare chance to experience the Sowa school of tea ceremony under Udagawa's guidance, at Sokkon, the venue he founded.

Discover the 400-year tradition of the Sowa school of tea ceremony

Appreciate Japanese Culture with Seasonal Kousen and Sweets

Upon arrival, begin with the kousen experience in the Ransuitei hall. Kousen is a hot water drink that highlights seasonal aromas, like cherry blossoms or shiso. It’s served to refresh guests and naturally relaxes the mood. For first-timers, it also helps ease any tension before entering the tea room.

The kousen with floating arare (small rice crackers) is as delightful to look at as it is to sip

Next, enjoy seasonal main sweets, chosen from traditional treats passed down since the Heian period (794-1185) and those aligned with the lunar calendar. The highlight of the tea ceremony is experiencing Japanese culture’s deep appreciation for the seasons, reflected in the sweets, which are rich in meaning and seasonal significance. (The selection changes with the season.)

Inokomochi, a traditional Heian-era sweet, is shaped like a gourd

Learn Tea Etiquette While Enjoying the Tea Room Atmosphere

After tasting the tea and sweets, move to the tea room for the thin tea ceremony. As the host in a kimono enters, the mood will naturally lift. In this experience, you'll learn tea ceremony etiquette without worrying about attire or other formalities. Simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere created by the host’s graceful movements.

The serene ambiance of Sokkon creates a calm and dignified atmosphere

As you sip the carefully prepared thin tea, your mind will settle. The host will share details about the tea, its name, the tea bowls, and the hanging scrolls. In this peaceful atmosphere, you'll experience the basic etiquette of a tea room.

Drinking tea in this unique space creates a calming, special moment

Experience the Depth of Chaji, the Essence of the Tea Ceremony

A chaji is the heart of the tradition, offering a deep, time-rich experience. You'll savor the food, drinks, thick tea, and enjoy meaningful conversation, all while fully appreciating the thin tea. While it may seem daunting for beginners, it's a profound experience that reveals the host's care and hospitality. This plan offers a truly special opportunity to enjoy the tea ceremony to the fullest.

Knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through tea ceremony etiquette

A Simple Yet Thoughtfully Prepared Cha-Kaiseki Lunch With One Soup and Three Dishes

After your time in the tea room, enjoy a cha-kaiseki meal at Ransuitei hall. The lunch will consist of one soup and three dishes, said to be the basis of kaiseki cuisine. Though simple in composition, it features seasonal ingredients, and the delicate preparation makes it a feast for the eyes and senses. The menu changes monthly for a refreshing experience with each visit.

From autumn to winter, the miso soup features white miso for a rich, elegant taste (seasonal variations apply)

Enjoy the rich flavor of the simmered bowl alongside white rice, miso soup, mukouzuke (side dishes), and grilled dishes. With clear explanations, even beginners can learn the basics of kaiseki cuisine and dining etiquette. Feel free to ask about the food and enjoy the experience with ease.

The highlight of the one-soup, three-dish lunch is the simmered bowl, featuring vibrant and seasonal ingredients

This plan is perfect for those curious about the tea ceremony but haven’t experienced one. Only available through Wabunka, it offers a unique chance to experience the charm of the tea ceremony in a beautiful tea room, along with a seasonal cha-kaiseki lunch. Whether alone or with a small group, it’s a great way to relax and explore the world of tea ceremony while enjoying delicious tea and food.