Join me in Soka for a private Japanese tea ceremony, where you’ll explore the traditions of this revered cultural art. As your guide and interpreter, I’ll assist in explaining the actions and significance behind each step, ensuring a meaningful and engaging experience.

You’ll be hosted by a skilled Japanese tea master who will prepare ceremonial-grade matcha green tea, paired with traditional wagashi sweets or Soka senbei rice crackers. This particular tea house prides itself on using ceremonial top-grade coals for heating the tea kettle, a detail that enhances the authenticity and tradition of the experience.

While tea ceremonies traditionally involve sitting in the formal seiza position, this tea house offers a more relaxed setting, allowing you to sit comfortably if you prefer. With my guidance and interpretation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the tea-making process and its cultural importance, making this a memorable and immersive experience.

As part of this unique tour in Soka, we’ll delve into the world of Matsuo Bashō, one of Japan’s most celebrated poets, and his renowned travel diary, Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North). Bashō’s poetic journey through Edo-period Japan has inspired countless travelers, and Soka, a quaint town on the outskirts of Tokyo, was one of the places he visited along his path.

We’ll explore key locations in Soka connected to Bashō’s journey. I’ll provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of these sites, highlighting their connection to Oku no Hosomichi. You’ll learn about the poetic traditions of haibun, Bashō’s style that blends prose and haiku, and how his observations captured the essence of nature, travel, and spirituality.

One of our stops will include a walk along areas that echo the spirit of Bashō’s travels, allowing you to reflect on the idea that “every day is a journey, and the journey itself home,” a sentiment that lies at the heart of his work. Along the way, I’ll share excerpts from Oku no Hosomichi, bringing Bashō’s words to life as we retrace the steps of this legendary poet.

This tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with the literary and cultural heritage of Japan, providing a deeper appreciation of its poetic and historical landscape. It’s an enriching experience that combines the beauty of Soka’s rural charm with the timeless inspiration of Bashō’s travels.