Dusitthani Kyoto Launches "Chakō" — A Nicotine-Free Tea-Smoking Wellness Experience with Sake and Whisky Pairings

Dusitthani Kyoto, the luxury hotel near Nishihonganji Temple in Kyoto's Shimogyo Ward, introduced a distinctive wellness program called "Chakō" (茶香) starting March 1, 2026. Using the same principle as shisha (water pipe), the experience heats only tea leaves with charcoal and filters the resulting vapor through water — creating what might be described as "drinkable tea smoke." The program contains no nicotine and draws on the spirit of Japanese tea culture and Zen philosophy.

As guests breathe in slowly and deeply, the aroma of the tea undergoes a gradual transformation, shifting from a fresh, vibrant impression to the warm, roasty depth reminiscent of houjicha. This sensory journey is designed to sharpen the senses and cultivate a sense of inner stillness.

Organic Tea from the Hotel's Own Garden in Wazuka

The tea leaves used in Chakō are grown at the "Dusit Tea Garden," an organic estate operated by the hotel in Wazuka-cho, Uji, Kyoto — a region with over 800 years of history as a renowned uji tea production area. The garden follows a circular farming approach, composting food waste from the hotel and returning it to the soil, while avoiding pesticides to draw out the natural richness of the land. The resulting leaves carry layered flavor with natural umami and a gentle sweetness.

For this program, the hotel has partnered with Rakusan Co., Ltd., a company dedicated to exploring the art of tea smoking, to develop an exclusive custom blend designed to bring out the full character of these carefully cultivated leaves.

Pairing with Japanese Sake and Whisky

Beyond the tea-smoking experience itself, guests can opt for pairings with Japanese sake or whisky. The combination of aromatic tea vapor with these selected drinks is offered as an added dimension to the sensory experience. Sessions last approximately one hour at Chef's Table Kōyō (紅葉) on the Garden Floor (B1).

Program Details