Enter a world of refined craftsmanship and timeless tea culture in Takayama, Nara—widely known as the birthplace of Japan’s traditional tea whisk, the essential tool used in the tea ceremony. This exclusive experience takes place at the home and workshop of the Tanimura family, one of only 18 tea whisk makers in Japan, where secret techniques have been passed down for centuries through generations of artisans. Tea whisk production is said to have begun in this bamboo-rich village around 500 years ago, and even today, many of Japan’s finest chasen are still handcrafted using the same meticulous methods. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed into a space filled with beautifully finished whisks and the quiet atmosphere of a true craftsman’s workshop, where the 20th-generation head of the family, Tango Tanimura, will demonstrate the advanced skills required to transform a single piece of bamboo into an elegant and functional tea whisk. Watching the master’s hands at work is an experience in itself—precise, delicate, and deeply moving—revealing why this craft has remained a symbol of Japanese elegance for so long. From there, you can tailor your visit by selecting the option that best matches your interests: carve your own chashaku (tea scoop) under the master’s guidance, craft your own chasen (tea whisk) and bring home a meaningful handmade souvenir, or enjoy a tea ceremony experience in an authentic setting while learning how tea tools, etiquette, and hospitality come together as a single art. For travellers seeking the most complete and luxurious immersion, the premium plan allows you to enjoy everything in one visit—including the tea ceremony, hands-on crafting, a seasonal boxed lunch, and even a matcha whisking experience so you can learn to prepare tea using utensils connected to this historic place. Whether you choose one focused activity or the full premium programme, this is a rare opportunity to meet a true living artisan, witness a protected cultural tradition in its home region, and take part in an unforgettable tea experience that cannot be replicated in ordinary workshops.