Take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at this botanical garden in Alberta

Japanese tea ceremonies are something special, and definitely something you won’t be able to find everywhere. Good thing the University of Alberta has brought this special treat to their botanical gardens this season.

The University’s botanical gardens reopened this May for the season, and with it comes a load of events. This includes, but is not limited to, their special Japanese tea ceremonies, which occur up until August.

Are you familiar with tea ceremonies? Let me give you the run-down. This session focuses on the making, serving, and presentation of matcha. It’s intimate, special, and not like anything you’ll find in Alberta. This series offers Albertans a special opportunity to participate in something that would otherwise be extremely inaccessible in the province.

If you’re interested in taking a sip, let’s jump into the details.

What to expect

Each tea session will last about 30 minutes. This gives you ample time to enjoy and soak in the energy of the event. More accurately, the sittings will take about 20 to 35 minutes. The session will include an explanation of the tea ceremony, its history, and traditions.

It’s important to keep in mind, however, to plan for time to park, purchase garden admission, and reach the Ozawa Pavilion. It takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to walk to the Ozawa Pavilion and Ikoi no Ba from the main admission gate, so make sure you’ll get there in time.

Once you get to the spot, the fun can get started.

They are currently offering performances in Furo and Ryurei style, and you can choose your time accordingly. Each guest will be offered a traditional Japanese sweet, accompanied by a bowl of freshly made matcha during the ceremony. The sweets are made with sticky rice flour (mochi) and a bean filling.

There are two sessions being held for the rest of the summer: one on July 12 and one on Aug. 16, with multiple sittings on each day. Book your tickets soon, they’re going to sell out fast.

If you aren’t particularly interested in the tea experience, but are intrigued by the gardens, they’re officially open for the season. From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, as well as 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, you can take a gentle walk through the stunning natural scenery.

Are you going to participate in this age-old tradition? I definitely am going to keep this on my list of things to do, so don’t miss out while you have the chance.

Japanese Tea Ceremony

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Ozawa Pavilion at the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens — 51227 AB-60, Parkland County, Alta.
Cost: $11.98+

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