Kyoto: Make Zen Garden and Taste Matcha in Pottery Shop

If you’re visiting Kyoto and looking for a hands-on cultural experience that’s both authentic and affordable, this tour offers a charming encounter with Japanese traditions. For just $13 per person, you’ll visit a cozy, renovated 100-year-old Kyoto townhouse—Ninshu—where you’ll get to craft your own Zen garden and then enjoy a traditional Matcha tea paired with seasonal Japanese sweets. It runs about an hour, making it a manageable addition to your sightseeing schedule, whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese aesthetics.

Two things we really love about this experience: First, the opportunity to physically create a Zen garden, which is usually just admired from afar in temples. It’s a rare chance to rake, decorate, and personalize a miniature Karesansui—the carefully designed dry landscape. Second, the combination of making your own garden and tasting authentic Matcha directly from Kyoto’s renowned Ippodo tea company adds depth and flavor to the visit, making it much more than just a craft session.

One possible consideration is that the experience is free-form and doesn’t involve a lot of structured instruction. If you’re someone who prefers detailed guidance or a highly structured workshop, you might find it a bit loose. However, the relaxed atmosphere can be a plus if you enjoy creative freedom.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate hands-on cultural activities and want to go beyond passive sightseeing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy crafting or want a lasting souvenir in the form of beautifully handmade pottery, which is dishwasher and microwave safe—perfect for overseas travelers wanting practical keepsakes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You’re invited to create your own Zen garden, a rare opportunity usually only available to temple monks or garden designers.
• Cultural Pairing: The experience includes tasting Matcha from Kyoto’s famous Ippodo and seasonal wagashi sweets, authentic treats that add a sensory layer to your visit.
• Convenient Location: Close to Ippodo Tea and within walking distance of major Kyoto sights such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Shiyakusho-mae Station.
• Quality Souvenirs: Traditional pottery that is dishwasher and microwave safe makes for practical, memorable souvenirs.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: No heavy instructions—this is a free-form, creative activity. It’s perfect if you like to explore at your own pace.
• Cost-Effective: At just $13, it offers excellent value, especially considering the cultural depth and unique hands-on activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Experience

Setting and Location

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the charm of this renovated 100-year-old Kyoto townhouse. Located just a couple of minutes’ walk north of Ippodo Tea and a short stroll from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the shop exudes both history and intimacy. It’s a small, welcoming space that allows you to step into a slice of Kyoto life, away from the more touristy spots.

Creating Your Zen Garden

Once inside, you’ll be guided into the back garden where the real magic begins. Unlike viewing a Zen garden behind glass, here you’ll rake and decorate your own miniature landscape using sand, stones, and vessels. We loved the way this activity allows for personal expression—your garden is a reflection of your mood and creativity. As one reviewer put it, “it was very zen,” capturing the calming effect of the activity.

The process is straightforward but engaging. You can design the patterns, arrange stones, or just rake the sand in a meditative swirl. The unstructured style means you can be as decorative or minimal as you like. It’s about creating a peaceful scene, and that sense of calm is contagious.

Tasting Matcha and Sweets

After your garden is complete, you have a front-row seat to enjoy Matcha—the finely ground green tea powder celebrated worldwide for its deep flavor and ceremonial significance. The Matcha comes from Ippodo, Kyoto’s most famous tea company, ensuring top-quality and authentic flavor.

Accompanying your tea are seasonal wagashi sweets, delicate confections that balance sweetness and aesthetics. As one reviewer noted, “You can take pictures of yourself eating Matcha and Japanese sweets in front of the Zen garden you have made,” which makes for a memorable souvenir.

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Souvenirs and Practicality

The store also sells handmade pottery, which is dishwasher and microwave safe. These are popular among international visitors because they’re practical and uniquely Japanese. You might find yourself tempted to pick up a cup or bowl to remind you of your time here.

Accessibility and Timing

The tour typically begins about 2 minutes’ walk north of Ippodo, making it easily accessible from central Kyoto. It takes about an hour, giving you enough time to enjoy the activity without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so it can be neatly slotted into a day filled with temple visits or shopping.

Cost and Value

At $13, this activity offers incredible value. You’re paying for a cultural experience, a creative activity, and a chance to taste Kyoto’s renowned Matcha—all in one small, affordable package. The inclusion of experience, tasting fees, and reservation system fees makes it transparent and straightforward.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers describe it as “very zen” and “a fun experience, if a little free-form.” One even noted, “It could be done quickly if you’re in a decisive group,” hinting that some might prefer a more structured approach, but overall, the relaxed vibe is appreciated.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone eager to try your hand at Japanese crafts, or if you want a relaxing, memorable moment in Kyoto, this experience fits the bill. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and cultural authenticity. If you’re after a quick, meaningful taste of Kyoto’s traditions without a hefty price tag, this one’s a winner.

Final Thoughts

This Kyoto activity offers a wonderful balance of creativity, culture, and taste. For just $13, you’re not only creating a personal Zen garden—a rare experience in a city dotted with temples—but also tasting authentic Matcha from a renowned tea shop. The handmade pottery adds a tangible keepsake, and the relaxed, no-pressure environment makes it accessible and enjoyable for most visitors.

While it’s not a highly structured class, that’s part of its charm. It invites you to explore your artistic side while soaking in a piece of Kyoto’s peaceful lifestyle. This experience would suit travelers who want something authentic, fun, and meaningful—a quiet moment of Zen amid your busy travel schedule.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable with creative activities will enjoy making their own Zen garden and tasting Matcha.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot, and you can reserve and pay later if your plans are flexible.

How long does the activity last?
The tour lasts about one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
It’s located about 2 minutes walk north of Ippodo and near the Kyoto Imperial Palace, along Teramachi Dori.

Can I buy souvenirs here?
Yes, they sell handmade pottery that’s dishwasher and microwave safe, perfect for souvenirs.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The available information suggests it’s suitable for small groups, but specific size limits aren’t provided.

Is the pottery included in the price?
No, the cost covers the experience and tasting, but pottery is available for purchase separately.

What do I need to bring?
Nothing special—just your curiosity and willingness to get a little sandy. The pottery is ready to go.

Can I take photos during the activity?
Absolutely! You’re encouraged to take pictures, especially of your garden and enjoying Matcha.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This activity delivers a charming slice of Kyoto life, combining creativity, tradition, and tasty treats in a friendly, accessible way. It’s an experience that will leave you with a peaceful memory—and perhaps a new appreciation for the art of Zen.

You can check availability for your dates here: