Step away from the rush of everyday life and discover one of the most peaceful and meaningful experiences offered at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.
Registration is now open for our 2026 Japanese Tea Ceremonies at the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden. Space is extremely limited, and these popular ceremonies often fill quickly.
More than simply drinking tea, the Japanese Tea Ceremony is a centuries-old tradition centered on mindfulness, hospitality, beauty, and connection. Participants are guided through an authentic ceremony led by trained volunteers from the Urasenke tradition, one of Japan’s most respected tea schools.
Your experience begins in the tranquil Japanese Garden, where carefully designed pathways help prepare the mind for quiet reflection. Inside the traditional teahouse, guests are immersed in an atmosphere of simplicity and serenity while learning about the history, symbolism, and etiquette of this cherished cultural practice.
Each 45-minute ceremony includes a traditional tea service and an introduction to the customs and meaning behind the ritual.
Whether you are interested in Japanese culture, seeking a unique outing, or simply looking for a moment of calm and reflection, the Japanese Tea Ceremony offers an unforgettable experience unlike anything else in the Twin Cities.
Cost: $60 per person
2026 Ceremony Dates:
June
- June 20: 10:30 am, 12:00 pm
- June 21: 1:30 pm
July
- July 18: 10:30 am, 12:00 pm
August
- August 1: 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm
September
- September 11: 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm
- September 12: 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm
- September 13: 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm
Reserve your place today and experience a tradition that has brought people together in harmony and contemplation for generations.
For more information on the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden, the elements of the garden, and a deeper dive into the Tea Ceremony, click HERE.



