Takizme — Restaurant in Tokyo

I attended the tea tasting experience in September 2024 with a group of four, and it exceeded all my expectations. Despite the host having just returned from a trip and feeling a bit exhausted, he still managed to provide us with a wonderful and engaging experience.

Initially, I was hesitant because the location is a bit out of the way in Shinagawa, about a 25-minute Uber ride from central Tokyo. However, it was absolutely worth the trip! The experience is intentionally designed to be less traditional, so there's no need to worry about formal attire or rigid customs. The host explained that his goal was to create a space where guests could relax, enjoy, and learn about tea in a laid-back atmosphere.

Throughout the ceremony, we were encouraged to ask any questions that came to mind, and the host was happy to share his knowledge on everything from the ideal brewing temperatures to the history of Japanese tea customs, as well as insights into his personal journey and decision to start his own business. The room was also perfectly air-conditioned, which was a blessing on a hot and humid summer day, and the host kindly adjusted the temperature until we were all comfortable. The ceremony began with a calming mindfulness and meditation session, setting the tone for the rest of the experience.

We opted for the three-tea tasting with dessert pairing, and each tea came with its own special cup, carefully sourced from local ceramics shops. The experience was thoughtfully curated, encouraging us to appreciate the aroma of the dried tea leaves before each tasting.

Cold Brew Tamaryokucha Green Tea, paired with a Japanese-style jelly with peach This was my personal favorite! The cold tea and refreshing jelly were the perfect match on a hot summer day. The jelly was light but packed with flavor, with a wonderfully delicate texture.

First Flush Genmaicha Brown Rice Tea, paired with a chocolate chip cookie with Japanese spices This pairing had a more toasty, warm flavor compared to the first. The cookie reminded me of holiday treats, with notes of cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger—an unexpected but delightful combination with the tea.

Hojicha (Roasted Green Tea), paired with a fig and almond sandwich cookie This pairing was deliciously balanced. The roasted flavor of the tea complemented the soft cookie, with the figs and almonds adding texture and depth. On a cooler day, this might have been my top choice, but it was hard to beat the cold pairings in the summer heat.

All of the desserts were made fresh in-house, and it was clear that a lot of love and care went into every detail. At the end of the ceremony, the host asked for feedback and thoughtfully considered our suggestions, which is probably why everything felt so perfected.

I highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Japan. The host is very foreigner-friendly, fluent in English and French (and possibly more), and loves meeting people from all over the world. If you’re looking for a unique, relaxing, and educational experience, this tea...

This experience during our first visit to Tokyo was one of the most memorable. I did a significant amount of searching online for a traditional tea ceremony experience that offered something authentic, without feeling like it was tailored only for tourists who want a photo wearing a kimono. At Takizme, you are guided by Takuya, someone who is deeply connected to the space through family history. You feel the personal experience and passion that drives the business, and it's beautiful.

We arrived somewhat stressed from the travel. However, we immediately felt the calm energy from our host at our greeting. We were given kind instruction meant to both welcome and introduce us to the meditative environment that we were about to enter.

We selected an experience that included guided meditation, as well as food pairings for our teas. We were led through two meditations; one at the beginning, and one at the end of our visit. As someone who tends to keep my shoulders in my ears and never release anxiety, this was a surprisingly effective journey that inspired me to include the process in my day to day life. The meditation and the ritualistic steps required to prepare the tea is very calming, both to watch, and to participate in.

The space was clean, modern and interesting. Every item you see has a story, a purpose and an intention. That also applies to the steps taken to prepare and serve your tea and accompaniments. But don't worry, it will all be articulately explained by Takuya, who speaks English better than some people I know in the states.

It's worth mentioning that the teas we tasted (4 varieties) were all unique and interesting, and served with a well paired snack. After much discussion, it was very clear that the selected teas, serving temperatures, and paired bites were a product of many months of testing and evaluation. Takuya's knowledge of flavor profiles and comparative analysis of the first cup vs the second cup of a brewed tea was fascinating, and quite impressive.

This is a must do experience in Tokyo. Do not miss this chance to feel a true connection to...

I had the pleasure of visiting this charming tea house during my recent trip to Japan, and I must say it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I stepped in, the warm hospitality of the host enveloped me, creating an atmosphere of serenity and calm that was truly remarkable.

The tea and dessert pairings curated by the host were an absolute delight for the senses. Each tea was expertly chosen to complement the flavors of the delectable desserts, resulting in a symphony of tastes that left me craving for more. It was evident that great care and thought had been put into crafting these pairings, and it truly elevated the entire tea-drinking experience.

What stood out even more was the host's genuine passion for creating a memorable experience for each guest. Their wealth of knowledge about teas, desserts, and the art of relaxation made for engaging conversations that added an extra layer of enjoyment to the visit. Not only did they provide impeccable service, but they also shared valuable recommendations for exploring the local area, from hidden gems to must-visit attractions.

The tea house itself was a haven of tranquility, transporting me to a different world where time seemed to slow down. The traditional Japanese decor, combined with the soothing ambiance, made for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I left feeling rejuvenated, with a heart full of gratitude for the wonderful experience.

In conclusion, if you're seeking a unique and immersive tea experience in Japan, look no further than this exceptional tea house. The impeccable tea and dessert pairings, warm hospitality, and expert recommendations make it a must-visit destination for...