Embracing Tradition: The Ocharu Tea Ceremony

As the year draws to a close, Bunkyo City offers a serene escape into the heart of Japanese tradition with the Ocharu Tea Ceremony. Nestled across from Tokyo University, this experience is more than just a tea ceremony—it’s a vibrant journey through Japan’s rich tea culture. On December 28th and 29th, the weather is clear and inviting, making it the perfect time to immerse yourself in this cultural gem.

Begin your day with a refreshing cup of wakocha, a unique Japanese black tea from Shizuoka, paired with a delicious tea cake. The ceremony, available in the morning and afternoon, allows you to watch as a master brews Gyokuro sencha, the highest grade of green tea. You’ll have the opportunity to taste the tea leaves and seasonal wagashi sweets from “Ougiya,” a renowned confectioner that has been creating these treats for generations.

Under the guidance of a skilled tea master, you’ll whisk your own matcha using traditional tools, connecting you to centuries of Japanese tea culture. The experience concludes with a soothing cup of Genmaicha, a blend of sencha and roasted rice from Niigata Prefecture. Before you leave, you’ll receive a certificate and a group photo to remember your dive into Japan’s tea culture.

Intimate and enjoyable - A wonderful opportunity to experience different teas, their ceremonial preparation and their consumption. A knowledgeable tea master who was able to share the process in an intimate setting. (Reviewed at: 2024-10-14)

Discovering Old Tokyo: A Culinary and Cultural Journey

For those eager to explore the charming streets of Yanesen, the Old Tokyo Tour offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Available on December 28th from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM, this tour spans the historic shopping streets of Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi, providing a window into the daily life of locals.

As you wander through these streets, you’ll savor traditional Japanese dishes like croquettes, a favorite among residents. The tour includes visits to traditional shops offering Japanese accessories, a captivating hand puppet show, and a shrine adorned with a tunnel of vibrant red torii gates. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culinary culture all in one location.

The tour also highlights unique spots like the Evil Stamp Shop Shinimonogurui, where you can create name stamps with charming illustrations, and Yanaka Shippoya, where you can try a donut stick designed to resemble a cat’s tail. The experience is both cultural and culinary, offering a taste of the “normal life” near the busy Tokyo city center.

Highly recommended private tour through hidden places - The tour through the more quiet suburbs in the north of Tokyo was super fun and inspiring. Thank you Hina for being such a wonderful tour guide! (Reviewed at: 2024-09-05)

Preparing for New Year’s Eve: A Weekend of Celebration

As you prepare to welcome the New Year, Bunkyo City offers a unique blend of tradition and celebration. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures on December 28th and 29th provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings.

Whether you’re participating in the Ocharu Tea Ceremony or exploring the historic streets of Yanesen, these experiences offer a deep dive into Japan’s unique culture. The weekend is a time to reflect on the past year and embrace the traditions that make Japan so special.

As the sun sets on December 29th, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Bunkyo City and the rich cultural tapestry it offers. Whether you’re sipping on a cup of Genmaicha or wandering through the vibrant streets of Yanesen, this weekend promises to be a memorable journey into the heart of Japanese tradition and celebration.