1. Kyoto: Traditional Townhouse Lunch & Kimono Tea Ceremony
Do you know what a Japanese old townhouse (machiya) is? It is a house built in the Meiji period (1868-1912) that is three times as deep as the length of the building facing the passageway. Japanese people in the past built culture, business, and family here. What is the structure like inside it? First of all, after you arrive, a kimono made of authentic silk will be quickly fitted for you. If you wish, you will also be taught how to behave in kimono. After that, the tour will take you to the mysterious three storehouses, the six tsuboniwa gardens where you can feel the flow of seasonal winds, the tea ceremony room "Rakuju", and the detached tatami room where Noh plays were performed. Please feel the lifestyle that cultivated the spirit of the Japanese people here. Tea is an inseparable part of Japanese culture. You will hear an explanation of the tea ceremony in the tea room and watch a tea ceremony performance. Feel as if you were transported back in time to the Meiji period and experience the spirit of Wabi-Sabi. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional bento box lunch served in a tatami room that has continued for 100 years. Using Kyoto vegetables, fish, beans, miso, and tofu, all carefully and elegantly prepared with Japanese tastes. If you prefer, you can make it vegetarian or vegan. Please feel free to take as many pictures as you like during your stay. We hope you enjoy your stay and experience Japanese culture to the fullest.