Private Katsura Imperial Villa Tour in Antique Kimono with Tea Ceremony

Highlights

• Explore Katsura Imperial Villa with a local specialist guide
• Wear a rare antique kimono, carefully selected and expertly fitted
• Experience an authentic tea ceremony led by a trained tea master
• Discover the villa’s celebrated gardens, architecture, and symbolism
• Enjoy unhurried time for photos, reflection, and cultural insight

What to expect

Step into the refined world of Kyoto’s imperial past on this private 3-hour cultural experience at Katsura Imperial Villa, complete with an authentic tea ceremony and the rare opportunity to wear an antique kimono.

Katsura Imperial Villa (桂離宮) represents the pinnacle of Japanese architecture and garden design.

Completed in 1645, this detached palace was built by Prince Hachijo Toshihito on land gifted by Shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

One of Kyoto’s four imperial properties, it features a stroll garden inspired by the Tale of Genji, where scenes from Japan’s classic novel unfold with each turn. The compound includes four teahouses and several pavilions, each exemplifying supreme craftsmanship. As visitors walk the garden paths, carefully composed vistas reveal the sublime integration of architecture and landscape design.

Designed for couples, honeymooners, and discerning travelers, this elegant tour offers a slow-paced, deeply immersive journey into Japan’s aesthetics, traditions, and timeless beauty.