Experience Chadō - Japanese Tea Ceremonies - at Hatley Park this summer

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Urasenke Tankōkai Victoria Association member standing in the doorway of the Royal Roads Teahouse smiling and inviting visitors in.

Royal Roads University is pleased to offer guests with bookings the opportunity to have matcha tea prepared by Urasenke Tankōkai Victoria Association in Hatley Park’s beautiful hand-crafted Teahouse in the Japanese garden this summer.

Guests will experience Chadō — the way of Tea. The term refers to the traditional Japanese tea ceremony which focuses on the preparation and serving of tea to  guests in a mindful and aesthetic manner. This has been practiced since 16th century. Wa (Harmony), Kei (Respect), Sei (Purity) and Jaku (Tranquility) are the fundamental principles of Chadō.

Members of the Urasenke Tankōkai Victoria Association perform Chado

In its inaugural season, the tea house is accepting bookings for the last Sunday of every month from May to September. Four seatings will be offered on May 25, June 29, July 27, August 31 and September 28 with each ceremony welcoming up to eight guests. Tickets are $16 per person plus GST. Reservations are required in advance. Book your Chadō experience.

This is the latest enhancement for the revitalization of the gardens at Hatley Park. The hand-crafted Japanese teahouse, first opened in the summer of 2024, provides a serene venue on campus for formal tea ceremonies and special gatherings.

Hatley Park’s regular summer offerings, including daily guided walking tours of Hatley Castle and the gardens will also run May through September. Tickets are available for purchase at the Garden Booth near the Italian Gardens. Habitat Café is open weekdays from 7 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. with a range of menu options available.