Osaka: Tea Master Heritage and Tea Ceremony in Sakai

Follow the footsteps of Sen no Rikyu, the legendary tea master who shaped the Japanese Way of Tea and the spirit of wabi-sabi. This tour takes place in Sakai, Rikyu’s birthplace and one of Japan’s most important cities for tea culture. Visit the site of his former residence and explore Sakai Risho no Mori, a cultural museum where you can learn about Rikyu, the history of tea, and Sakai’s role as a prosperous merchant city. You will also enjoy a casual seated tea ceremony experience, designed to make Japanese tea culture easy to approach even for first-time visitors. Depending on your selected option, the tour may also include kurumi mochi, a traditional Sakai sweet often enjoyed with tea, and Nanshuji Temple, a Zen temple closely connected to Rikyu’s training. Through tea, history, local sweets, and temple culture, this tour offers a clear and friendly introduction to the roots of Japanese tea culture.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   1.5 hours

   Sakai Risho no Mori honors Sen no Rikyu, the tea master who shaped the Way of Tea, and Akiko Yosano, a celebrated poet. Explore Rikyu’s legacy through exhibits on tea culture, visit Yosano’s memorial museum, and enjoy a Seated Tea Ceremony (Ritsurei Chakai), experiencing Japan’s refined tea traditions firsthand.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   40 min

   At Kurumi Mochi Kanbukuro, savor the unique Kurumi Mochi, a chewy rice cake covered in a rich, sweet soybean-based sauce. Enjoy it in the cozy shop, paired with their special shaved ice, perfect for a refreshing treat. A must-visit spot for traditional sweets in Sakai!

3. 3

   Nanshu-ji Temple

   40 min

   Nanshu-ji Temple is deeply connected to Sen no Rikyu, the grand master who perfected the Way of Tea. This Zen temple was where Rikyu trained in tea ceremony and aesthetics, shaping Japan’s tea culture. Its historic tea rooms and dry landscape garden, designed in the spirit of wabi-sabi, reflect the core philosophy of tea. Visitors can explore the harmony between Zen and tea, experiencing the serene atmosphere that inspired Rikyu’s teachings.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.