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Japanese Tea Gathering: Kanna-zuki -1st seating

Date: Sat, Oct 3, 2026

Time: 11:45 AM - 1:15 PM

Venue: Onsite at Duke Gardens – directions to follow, Durham

Price: $68

Category: Outdoors

Join tea master Chizuko Sueyoshi and members of the Japanese Tea Practitioners of Durham for a moment of respite in the Duke Gardens teahouse, where you will experience the centering calm of a Japanese tea gathering in the Urasenke tradition. Enjoy the aesthetics, poetry and serenity of this rich tradition over an enticing bowl of whisked green tea and a Japanese confection. Guests will be escorted on a 15-minute walk to the teahouse, where seating is on the floor unless a chair is requested upon registration by emailing GardensEducation@duke.edu . For ages 12 and up. Fee: $68; 20% discount for Duke Gardens members with discount code. Parking: Fees apply Location: Onsite at Duke Gardens. Accessibility: This is a small group program that takes place indoors in a non-climate controlled space with floor seating, in a location that requires outdoors traveling on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some uneven surfaces and moderate inclines.

Outdoors · Durham

Japanese Tea Gathering: Kanna-zuki -1st seating

Wear slip-on shoes and warm socks, as you will remove shoes at the teahouse.

When
Oct 3
Sat, Oct 3, 2026
11:45 AM - 1:15 PM
Ages
All ages
Price
$68
dukegardens
Japanese Tea Gathering: Kanna-zuki -1st seating
Outdoors

The Japanese Tea Gathering: Kanna-zuki is an intimate, guided cultural ceremony led by tea master Chizuko Sueyoshi in the Urasenke tradition. Guests will walk to the garden's authentic teahouse to enjoy a bowl of whisked matcha paired with a traditional sweet confection, focusing on mindfulness and seasonal aesthetics. To plan your visit, keep in mind that this event is designed for ages 12 and older. Tickets are $68 per person, though Duke Gardens members receive a 20% discount. The teahouse is not climate-controlled, and standard seating is on the floor, so wear comfortable clothing. If you need a chair, you must request one via email when you register. Be sure to budget extra time and change for the paid parking lot at the gardens. This is a wonderful weekend pick if you want to spend quality, quiet time with your teenager. It offers a rare chance to slow down, learn about Japanese customs, and enjoy the gardens from a fresh perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event suitable for young children?
No, this gathering is strictly for ages 12 and up due to the quiet, meditative nature of the ceremony.
Where do we park and is there a fee?
You can park in the main Duke Gardens lot, where standard hourly parking fees apply.
What should I do if I cannot sit on the floor?
Standard seating is on the floor, but you can request a chair by emailing GardensEducation@duke.edu immediately after registering.

Last updated

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$68

Oct 3

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Japanese Tea Gathering: Kanna-zuki -1st seating runs Sat, Oct 3, 2026, 11:45 AM - 1:15 PM.

Getting There

Onsite at Duke Gardens – directions to follow is in Durham, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at Onsite at Duke Gardens – directions to follow

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen and water bottles — this one's outdoors
  • A blanket or low chairs for staking out a spot
  • Tickets or entry money — admission is $68

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