Tea House Senkutsu

A tea house of timeless beauty and spiritual depth now graces Aman Kyoto’s forest garden. Named by Zabosai Sen Soshitsu, the 16th-generation grand master of the Urasenke tea tradition, Tea House Senkutsu is a serene sanctuary where sukiya architecture blends quietly with nature.  

Aman Kyoto Tea House Koma

Though its full meaning is left for each of us to contemplate, the name Senkutsu – literally ‘the cave of an immortal’ – conjures images of a place of quiet retreat, spiritual depth and communion, while referencing those who have forged their own journeys through life, becoming a sage or master. Embraced by mountains and sky, one steps away from the world’s hectic pace. Here, in this sanctuary of stillness where nature and spirit breathe as one, a single bowl of tea signals a moment of profound serenity. 

Aman Kyoto Tea House Ryurei Aman Kyoto Tea Experience

The Way of Tea 

The Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu, embodies omotenashi, the Japanese art of hospitality. Within Tea House Senkutsu, a serene ritual unfolds, where the scent of fresh tatami, the quiet simmer of steam and the gentle play of light and shadow bring perfect harmony. Through this balance of elements, a spirit of respect and tranquillity prevails, inviting guests to experience deep cultural immersion through chanoyu, the Japanese Way of Tea. 
 

Harmony with Nature

Crafted using meticulously selected materials, including Kitayama cedar and Takagamine soil the tea house is an ode to enduring elegance. Designed by Sen Art Studio and constructed by Nakamura Sotoji Komuten, its craftsmanship reveals a structure that reflects light and shadow, carrying forward the enduring elegance of Japanese architecture. 
 

Cultural Immersions 

In the traditional tatami-floored tea room guests can take part in authentic Japanese tea ceremonies, while in the chair-style ryurei seating area, a more relaxed approach invites guests to enjoy a daily welcome matcha at their leisure or join seasonal cultural programmes including wagashi (Japanese sweets) making and collaborative art sessions with Japanese painters. 

Aman Kyoto Tea House Ryurei

Ryurei Style Tea Room

Set beside a peaceful pond surrounded by lush greenery, this chair-style tea room combines Aman Kyoto's architecture with modern comfort, welcoming the gentle forest breeze and soft light. Guests may enter with shoes on, making the tea ceremony, and a host of experiences such as wagashi (Japanese sweet) making and collaborative art sessions with Japanese painters, more accessible.  

 

A Moment of Matcha

Each afternoon, hotel guests are invited to savour a bowl of premium matcha accompanied by seasonal sweets. Upon request, a hands-on experience learning to prepare matcha yourself can be arranged. *Complementary activity daily from 2 to 4pm. 

Aman Kyoto Tea House Koma Aman Kyoto The Way of Tea

Koma Tea Room

Meticulously crafted, the traditional koma (tatami mat space) strips away all excess to present the most authentic experience. Guests enter through the nijiriguchi (small crawl-through entrance), crouching to pass into a seemingly tiny space that transcends its size revealing a quiet depth. A tranquil microcosm adorned with hanging scrolls and seasonal flowers in the alcove, where the gentle sound of the kettle simmering and the refined beauty of handcrafted utensils speak softly of ichigo ichie - the spirit of treasuring each unrepeatable moment. 

 

Discover Cyanoyu - A Mindful Tea Ritual

Savor a mindful journey into an ethereal realm, guided by a master of the authentic tea ceremony. 

  • Available at 11am or 12.30 pm
  • Reservations are requested at least seven days in advance
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