German-born Senchado Master Ute Sawada Reopens Senchado Class in Kyoto

Fukuro Group (Representative: Tomoya Sawada) has launched the landing page for the 'Ute Sawada Senchado Class,' led by Ute Sawada, a department manager in the Culture and Tourism Division and a master of the Senchado Obaku Baisa-ryu school. The class has been reopened in the Kiyomizu-Gojo area of Kyoto with a new price structure for beginner experiences and regular lessons.

Located just a 3-minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, the school offers authentic Senchado experiences, with trial lessons available for 3,500 yen (including tax). The classes are designed to be accessible to beginners and international visitors interested in Japanese culture, with support provided in English and German.

Ute Sawada is scheduled to appear on the TV Asahi program 'Sand & Kis-My-Ft2 no Ki ni Naru Man: Japan-loving Foreigners Living in Old Folk Houses Special,' airing on Monday, May 25, 2026. Through this broadcast, she aims to raise awareness of 'Senchado' as an essential part of Japanese tea culture, beyond just matcha.

At the 'Ute Sawada Senchado Class,' students can learn not only how to drink tea, but also basics about tea leaves, brewing techniques using a teapot, handling of tools, beauty of etiquette, and pairing with seasonal Japanese sweets.

Currently, as inbound tourism expands, there is a demand for 'deep cultural experiences' in Kyoto. The class provides a space to experience the sense of beauty and hospitality nurtured in Kyoto through the art of Senchado.

◆ Profile: Ute Sawada

Born in Germany. Master of the Senchado Obaku Baisa-ryu school. Majored in Japanese studies at the University of Cologne and studied abroad at Kyoto Sangyo University in 2014. Moved to Kyoto in 2017 and began training in Senchado Obaku Baisa-ryu in 2018, receiving her master's license in 2024. Currently based in Kyoto, she promotes the charm of Japanese tea culture both domestically and internationally through classes and cultural experiences.