Dine + Drink

A Taste of Japan at Fairmont Pacific Rim

This unique experience provides a cultural journey that blends the art of tea, delicate confections and masterful craftsmanship, immersing you in the rich heritage of Japan. Reserve your experience here.

January 17th, 2025

Immerse yourself in a journey of Japanese culture with the Matcha Tea Experience, hosted at the TASCHEN Lounge at Fairmont Pacific Rim from January 27 to February 7. This special collaboration with O5 Rare Tea Bar offers a sensory experience that blends the art of tea, delicate sweets and artisanal craftsmanship.

 

    ?>

    A Taste of Tradition

    At the heart of this experience is a bowl of tea prepared by Tsuji Kiyoharu, a celebrated tea artisan and fifth-generation tea grower from Uji Shirakawa, Japan’s most revered tea region. His unparalleled skill has earned him many awards, including from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Tsuji Kiyoharu’s tea blends time-honoured traditions of Uji with his innovative touch, promising an experience that is as authentic as it is memorable.

    Complementing the tea is a meticulously crafted ‘wagashi’ (Japanese sweet) by Misae Ogishima. A Fukuoka native and long-time Vancouver resident, Misae is the founder of Wagashi & Co, a local gem dedicated to celebrating Japan’s confectionery traditions. Her creations balance aesthetics and flavour, embodying the essence of Japanese sweets. Misae’s expertise extends to the Way of Tea and she regularly shares her knowledge through workshops and events across Vancouver.

    The Art of the Tea Bowl

    Guests will also have an opportunity to explore a collection of eight tea bowls created by Sasaki Kyoshitsu, a master ceramicist from Kyoto. Born into a family renowned for their ceramic artistry, Sasaki Kyoshitsu has honed his craft since his youth. His journey includes formal education in ceramics at Kyoto Municipal High School of Arts and Crafts, and Osaka University of Arts, followed by an apprenticeship under his father.

    In 1996, Zen Master Settei, head priest of Daitoku-ji Temple, granted Sasaki Sensei a name for his kiln, “Kiraigama”. Later, in 2011, he received the name “Kyoshitsu” from his teacher, further solidifying his place in the pantheon of Kyoto’s cultural heritage. Each of his tea bowls is a masterpiece, blending form, function and a profound heritage connection.

    Whether you are a tea connoisseur or simply curious to explore something new, the Matcha Tea Experience at TASCHEN Lounge is a celebration of artistry, tradition and taste. Savour the beauty of Japan in the heart of downtown Vancouver. This experience is available for $56.00 per person from January 27 to February 7, book now.

    Taschen Library located in downtown Vancouver library

    taschen lounge

    Located on the second floor of the hotel, it is one of only two retail locations in Canada dedicated to TASCHEN, the publisher of the “most beautiful books on the planet”.

    #PacificRimLife

    Stay in the know of what’s hot and happening at Fairmont Pacific Rim! Discover Pacific Rim Life, our blog which is driven by art, music, fashion, wellness, culture, culinary and cocktails, all making up the DNA of the hotel and the core of Vancouver’s vibrant social scene.