Private Tea Ceremony in a Samurai House with Yamanaka Lacquerware (Near Kanazawa)

【OUTLINE】

Step away from the noise and discover a hidden, tranquil retreat.
Savor a private and unhurried cultural experience in Yamanaka Onsen.

【HIGHLIGHTS】

• Experience the elegance of Yamanaka lacquerware in a traditional tea ceremony held at Mugen-an, a historic samurai residence.
• An English-speaking guide will lead the experience, offering clear insights into Japanese tea culture, the story of Mugen-an, and the artistry behind the lacquerware.
• Discover the refined architecture of Mugen-an—one of the most distinguished cultural properties in Ishikawa—and appreciate works by Haruhito Maehata, a renowned lacquer artist and owner of the residence.

【DETAILS】

Enjoy a 90-minute private tour and tea ceremony experience at Mugen-an, a historic samurai residence nestled in Yamanaka Onsen. After exploring the elegant interior of this traditional house, you will take part in a hands-on tea ceremony, where you will prepare and taste matcha (powdered green tea) yourself. Through this experience, you can discover the refined aesthetics and spirit of Japanese culture.

Mugen-an is designated as a tangible cultural property of Ishikawa Prefecture and represents one of the finest examples of samurai-style architecture. It was originally built in 1912 in Kanazawa by the Yokoyama family, high-ranking retainers of the Kaga domain, and was used for ceremonies and special occasions such as weddings. Today, it also serves as a cultural space displaying valuable artworks and crafts, including Kutani porcelain and tea utensils associated with Sen no Rikyu, the historical master of the tea ceremony.

About 100 years ago, the residence was relocated to its current location in Yamanaka Onsen. Since then, it has welcomed visitors as a unique place to experience traditional Japanese culture within a historic setting. In this peaceful atmosphere, you can appreciate the harmony between architecture, craftsmanship, and hospitality—an essential aspect of Japanese aesthetics.

An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the experience, providing clear explanations about the history and architecture of Mugen-an, the tea ceremony, and the characteristics of Yamanaka lacquerware. The program is designed to be enjoyable and accessible even for first-time visitors.

【SCHEDULE】

[11:00] Meet at Mugen-an and guided tour of the building
[11:30] Introduction to and viewing of Yamanaka Lacquerware
[12:00] Matcha tea experience
[12:30] Tour concludes

【THINGS TO NOTE】

• Duration：90 minutes
• Meeting point：Mugen-an Chabo Uruhashi [MAP]
  6 shimotani-machi, Yamanaka Onsen, Kaga-shi, Ishikawa 922-0127
• Access：40 minutes by taxi from Kaga Onsen Station
• Language support： Japanese, English
• Included：
  ・Matcha experience
  ・English-speaking guide
• Excluded：
  ・Transportation to the meeting point
• Participation requirements：6 years and above
• Free Wi-Fi：No
• Toilet：Yes (Western-style)                                                   

【CANCELLATION POLICY】

Until 72 hours before the experience start time: 0%
From 72 hours before the experience start time to start time: 100%
Cancellation after the experience has started or cancellation without contact: 100%