Kiku Plan – Wagashi making and tea ceremony experience –

A Taste of Japan’s Sweet and Serene Side: Kiku Plan Wagashi and Tea Ceremony Experience

If you’re seeking a genuine glimpse into Japan’s traditional culture without the crowds or touristy trappings, the Kiku Plan offers an inviting way to do just that. Located in the charming Chugoku Region, this experience costs around $24 per person and lasts about an hour. It combines the art of making Wagashi, the delicate Japanese sweets, with the tranquil beauty of a tea ceremony right inside a traditional tea room.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible and authentic it feels. First, the chance to craft a seasonal Nerikiri—that beautifully shaped, colored sweet—gives you a tangible connection to Japan’s artistic approach to food. Second, the tea ceremony is conducted in a relaxed, traditional space, adding a calming dimension to the day.

However, one consideration is the physical nature of the activity: it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with a cold, so plan accordingly. Still, this experience is ideal for anyone curious about Japanese cultural arts—perhaps travelers with a sweet tooth and a quiet curiosity for rituals—who want to go beyond ordinary sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Enjoy making traditional Nerikiri Wagashi in a relaxed setting.
• Seasonal Artistry: The sweets are crafted in shapes like chrysanthemums and fireworks, reflecting Japan’s seasons.
• Tea Ceremony: Experience a peaceful, authentic Japanese tea ritual in a traditional tea room.
• Health-Conscious Ingredients: The colored Wagashi uses powdered fruit and vegetable extracts, making them a healthier treat.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with a cold, so check your health and mobility before booking.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect from the Experience

Starting Point: The Old Folk House

Your journey begins at an old folk house, which sets a cozy, authentic tone. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel transported to Japan’s past. The setting itself is charming, giving you a real sense of stepping into a traditional space that has seen generations of artisans and tea lovers.

Making Nerikiri Wagashi

The heart of this tour is hands-on Wagashi making. You’ll learn to craft one seasonal Nerikiri, a sweet that’s as much about art as it is about taste. The sweets are made from a dough that can be colored and shaped into intricate designs—think chrysanthemums, symbolizing autumn, or fireworks, capturing a festive spirit. The colors come from powdered extracts of fruits and vegetables, making them healthier than artificial dyes.

Visitors have praised the delicacy of the shapes and the attention to detail. One reviewer noted, “I loved how the sweets reflected the seasons and how the instructor guided us through every step.” The process involves kneading, shaping, and decorating, making it perfect for those who enjoy a creative, meditative craft.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Room

After creating your Wagashi, you’ll move to a quiet tea room to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Here, the focus is on mindfulness and appreciation—both for the tea itself and for the moment of pause it creates. The setting is relaxing, with classic decor that emphasizes simplicity and natural beauty.

The tea ceremony is conducted in Japanese and English, allowing non-Japanese speakers to fully participate and understand the ritual’s significance. We loved the calm, respectful atmosphere, which gave us a rare chance to slow down and savor the moment.

Optional Kimono Origami Container

A fun, optional addition is the Kimono Origami Container—a cute little holder for your Wagashi, shaped like a mini kimono. It’s a charming souvenir and makes your sweet gift all the more special. It’s a small detail that adds a whimsical touch to the experience.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about an hour, making it a quick but meaningful activity. It’s generally suitable for small groups, allowing for personalized attention. The price of $24 includes both the Wagashi-making and the tea ceremony, offering excellent value considering the skill and cultural insight you gain.

Practical Information

• Booking is flexible—reserve today and pay later, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• The activity takes place at an old folk house, adding to its traditional charm.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with a cold.
• The experience is available in Japanese and English.

What Past Participants Say

Many visitors appreciate the relaxing pace and authentic feel. One reviewer said, “It was a peaceful experience that really connected me with Japanese traditions,” while another noted, “making the sweets felt like a quiet art class, and the tea ceremony was very calming.” Such feedback underscores how this activity appeals to travelers seeking cultural depth without the crowds.

Why This Experience Offers Great Value

For just $24, you gain more than a simple souvenir. You take home a handmade Wagashi, crafted with care, and a deeper appreciation for Japanese customs. The hands-on nature makes it interactive rather than passive, and the setting offers a gentle, authentic atmosphere that’s both educational and relaxing.

While it’s not suitable for everyone—no wheelchair access and certain health conditions need to be considered—it’s a fantastic fit for culture lovers, foodies, and anyone craving a peaceful, artistic break. The combination of culinary craft and ritualistic tradition makes for a well-rounded cultural experience.

Should You Book This Tour?

If you’re curious about Japan’s culinary arts and want a meaningful, hands-on activity that immerses you in tradition, this tour is a perfect choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy crafts, appreciate subtle rituals, or prefer experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. The relaxed pace and affordable price point make it accessible and worth considering for a brief cultural interlude in Yamaguchi.

Travelers looking for a quiet, authentic moment in Japan’s cultural tapestry will find this experience both delightful and worthwhile.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
It depends on the child’s patience and interest in crafts. Since it involves shaping and decorating sweets, children who enjoy arts and crafts might love it, but it’s best for those old enough to focus for about an hour.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, the experience is conducted in both Japanese and English, so language barriers shouldn’t be a problem.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity typically takes about an hour, including making the Wagashi and participating in the tea ceremony.

Is there an opportunity to buy the Wagashi afterward?
This isn’t specified, but often participants are allowed to keep their creations, which serve as a lovely edible souvenir.

Are there any physical limitations to participate?
Yes, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and anyone with a cold should consider postponing, as the activity involves some standing and fine motor skills.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers making one seasonal Wagashi and participating in a traditional tea ceremony, providing a well-rounded cultural experience for a modest price.

In short, the Kiku Plan Wagashi making and tea ceremony offers an engaging, authentic taste of Japan’s sweet artistry and peaceful rituals. It’s a memorable, value-packed activity for anyone interested in deeper cultural connections—without the hefty price tag or tourist crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: