Visit Nara

Built in 1812, Taiseian was once located in the Horyuji Temple grounds but moved to the current location around 1870, when one of the priests retired and wanted a teahouse at his home. Enter through the traditional front gate with decorative noren curtains and walk left through the classical Japanese garden to the teahouse. The current owner, a former music teacher, has traveled the world and speaks English. She offers several tea experiences, from basic matcha and wagashi, to a full tea ceremony with instruction on how to bow, walk, sit and make the matcha. You need to take off your shoes to enter the teahouse. Participants usually sit on the floor, but low chairs are also available.