OsakaTravel

Trace the Footsteps of Sen no Rikyu and Yosano Akiko; Experience Tea Ceremony Culture

About this spot

Two great figures produced by Sakai: Sen no Rikyu, who perfected wabi-tea ceremony, and poet Yosano Akiko. This cultural tourism facility dedicated to them has become a standard stop in Sakai tourism since opening in 2015. The Sen no Rikyu Tea Ceremony Hall clearly introduces the history of tea ceremony through tools and videos, while the Yosano Akiko Memorial Hall opens a world of passionate poetry, beginning with "Tangled Hair." Across the way stands the remains of Sen no Rikyu's former residence, with an attached "Sakai Taian"—a recreation of the national treasure tea room "Taian." Highly recommended is the seated tea ceremony experience where you remain in a chair, allowing you to enjoy freshly prepared matcha and seasonal Japanese confections comfortably—even children and grandparents uncomfortable with seiza are at ease. It's a chance to rest weary feet while three generations leisurely experience tea ceremony culture.

Tips

Just 1 minute on foot from Shukuin Station on the Hankai Electric Railway; about 10 minutes by car or bus from the Daisen Park area. Admission is 300 yen for adults, with the tea ceremony at a separate charge—confirm available package deals at reception. Since shoes are removed for the tea room experience, having clean socks is reassuring. The facilities are barrier-free and can be navigated with a stroller.