Chikuin Tea House
The Chikuin tea house is an example of more recent tea house architecture. It is a replica of a villa garden tea house believed to have been built by Kimura Seibei IV (1900–1970), last in a line of renowned Kyoto carpenters that specialized in traditional tea house architecture. The name Chikuin comes from bamboo, which is considered an auspicious plant because of its strength, rapid growth, and ability to withstand winter cold.
As opposed to the older styles represented by the Baiin and Shoin tea houses, Chikuin consists of only one tea room. The four-and-a-half-tatami-mat room is thought to be the ideal size for a tea gathering. The architecture lets in ample natural light, making the interior comparatively brighter, and the tokonoma alcove includes a dedicated space called a biwadoko, used to display biwa lutes.
Beginner-friendly tea gatherings are held at Chikuin on Sundays in spring (March–May) and fall (October–November). Reservations are not required to participate. Please inquire at the garden ticket window or the office of the Shokado Art Museum.