Morning Tea at Kyoto’s Tearoom Tōka

Gallery Nichinichi and Tearoom Tōka viewed from the street.

The tearoom is on the left as one enters the elegant Japanese-style residence, which also houses Gallery Nichinichi.

Tōka provides samples of tea leaves that customers can compare before ordering.

They can also sniff the leaves in their tea caddy.

The barista carefully checks the temperature of the water . . .

. . . and brews the tea slowly and deliberately.

The last drop of tea in the pot is considered the best.

A quiet, contemplative spot for mid-morning respite.