Morning Experience
A Path into Wabi-Sabi
You are invited to embark on this 90-minute journey into the world of Wabi-Sabi, guided by Mr. Suzuoki (a chef/tea master) and an English-speaking host, who will help you understand the essence of Japanese aesthetics.
This is a morning experience that embodies a concept of Wabi-Sabi, a traditional Japanese philosophy and aesthetics that find beauty in imperfection. The concept is prevalent in many Japanese cultures and traditional arts including cuisine and tea ceremonies.
Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the historic Higashi Chaya District, Mr Suzuoki, the second-generation owner and a chef of Japanese Restaurant Suzuoki, and also a tea master, welcomes you to step into the heart of Japanese culture.
The tea ceremony is not merely about whisking a bowl of matcha; it distils the essence of Japanese culture. Please join us to experience this cultural depth through cuisine (breakfast), aroma (the incense ceremony) and matcha (the tea ceremony).
A Path into Wabi-Sabi
Shared experience
Up to 6 people
JPY 15,400 / person
9:30 - 11:00 ( 90 minutes)
October 17, 24, 31
November 7, 14, 21
Location : Japanese restaurant Suzuoki
1-23-5, Higashiyama, Kanazawa
The venue is located in the Higashi Chaya District.
Private bookings are available on dates that are not listed above.
What to expect from the experience
1
Kaiseki 懐石
The morning begins with a kaiseki breakfast course meal prepared by the chef, Mr Suzoki, who is also a tea master holding a title of shihan. This tea ceremony meal called chakaiseki embodies the philosophy of less is more, using minimum seasoning to highlight the natural flavours of each ingredient. This is not a typical Japanese breakfast, but a special meal prepared exclusively for the tea ceremony. The seating is horigotatsu style, meaning you will sit on the floor with a sunken space beneath your legs, allowing you to sit as if you were on a chair.
2
Monkoh 聞香
After savouring the delicate art of Japanese cuisine, you will be guided into a different room to experience the incense ceremony or monkoh in Japanese. In Japan, it is said that one “listens to an aroma” rather than merely smelling it. It is a poetic expression that reflects the depth and mindfulness of the practice. This ceremony is also an integral part of the tea ceremony, where a gentle aroma helps guests relax, and refresh their senses before the matcha is served. You will sit on a tatami floor.
3
Cha-no-yu 茶の湯
Lastly, you will enjoy traditional Japanese sweets, followed by a bowl of matcha. The subtly sweet, creamy matcha gliding down your throat leaves a pleasant sensation that lingers in your heart long after. This entire morning experience is an opportunity to awaken your senses, become mindful of your surroundings, and embrace a profound sense of Zen.
What you need to know
No Perfume/fragrance
Tea ceremonies or chakaiseki is about enjoying aromas of cuisine, incense and matcha. Wearing perfume or any sort of fragrance is considered inappropriate.
No hand accessories
You will be asked to take off any hand accessories such as rings, bracelets or watches before entering the venue.
This is requested to not damage exquisite tablewares or tea utensils used in the tea ceremonies or chakaiseki.
Socks
You will be asked to take off your shoes. Please wear socks when entering the venue to protect tatami mat floors.
Dietary requests
The kaiseki meal is primarily composed of vegetables but also includes a few dishes with fish. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate dietary requests for this event. If you would like to explore other options, please contact us about a private booking.
How to purchase tickets
Please click the event name below to purchase your tickets.
