Published on May, 2025

A perfect experience. My mother was visiting Japan from the United States and said that doing a tea ceremony and trying on a kimono were at the top of her experience list. As a family, we also love architecture, gardens, and history. If any of these things ring true for you, then the tea ceremony/kimono experience at Tondaya cannot be missed. The number one part of this experience was the friendly, knowledgeable, accommodating staff. They were highly organized, guiding us from putting on clothes to the tea ceremony with ease and fluent English. They made putting on the clothes simple. Most importantly, they were so knowledgeable about history and culture. We particularly enjoyed finding similarities between our own Indian culture and their Japanese culture. A particular thanks to the young woman who was our primary guide. She not only dressed us and performed the tea ceremony, but answered all our questions and took beautiful photos of us. She’s a true professional! Next, the setting cannot be missed. The Tondaya townhouse is gorgeous. It has six beautiful gardens. On a warm day, they opened the sliding doors and a gentle breeze came through that added to our enjoyment. The house is rich in history too. We really enjoyed learning about the Noh performances that took place there. I could say more and more. Needless to say, don’t miss this experience. It’s also great for those, like us, who are too shy to wear the kimonos out in town, but are curious about the experience. It’s a private way to enjoy some delicious matcha tea in style. Thank you again! ありがとございました！またね！

Published on Apr, 2025

Everything was amazing! Guides were super nice and informative! I’m still learning Japanese but they helped me learn new words. Everyone communicated very clearly and we learned so much! The house, kimono, and tea ceremony were all gorgeous! 10/10 would recommend!

Published on Apr, 2025

Fun experience. They dressed us in Kimonos (men and women) prior to the tea ceremony. The explanation of the tea ceremony was somewhat abbreviated, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, since it is very involved and time consuming if done formally. There was a chair or floor option for the ceremony. Afterward we toured the beautiful historic property, which had been a family estate and also a kimono shop downstairs at one time. Photos were encouraged, and they offered to take everyone's pic. Young Japanese women explaining the ceremony and doing the house tour had great English.

Published on Apr, 2025

Our guide was very sweet and well educated. We had a large group, and they accommodated us. She easily made our experience, I highly recommend.

Published on Mar, 2025

Must book experience when in Kyoto! I attended with my mother and father and we had a wonderful time at this 140 year old tea house. We were dressed in beautiful kimonos by very attentive hosts and then took part in an authentic ceremony. Highly recommend. Thank you to the wonderfully kind hosts.