The afternoon tea presentation is designed to mimic traditional Japanese dry landscape gardens (Public Domain)

Park Hyatt Tokyo's Zen Garden Afternoon Tea

A high tea designed to emulate dry landscape garden aesthetics

The afternoon tea presentation is designed to mimic traditional Japanese dry landscape gardens (Public Domain)
Kim Bergström   - 2 min read

From July 2nd until August 31st, the Park Hyatt in Tokyo is hosting a Zen Garden Afternoon Tea event. The afternoon tea includes both sweet and savory dishes, along with 30 different bottomless drinks to choose from.

For those wondering what's on the menu, some of the savory options include Japanese beef cutlet sandwiches with miso and mustard mayonnaise, a grilled eel and baked ginger risotto, and teriyaki chicken sandwiches on green tea infused bread. As for the sweets component, there are mouth-watering desserts like hojicha mousse served with a pear and vanilla jam, layered parfaits with fresh peaches, vanilla ice cream, white peach jam, vanilla rice pudding, and thyme jelly, and the always requisite scones. The way the dishes are laid out is truly stunning, with the design reflecting the aesthetics of traditional Japanese dry gardens.

This is definitely one of the more expensive afternoon tea events out there, at a price of ¥ 9900 per head. However, for the elegant presentation and the quality of the dishes on offer, it's the perfect indulgence for a special occasion.

Do note that this event is limited to just 16 people per day, and reservations must be made in advance at least 3 days before your intended visit. This can be done by visiting the official hotel website here.

Getting there

The Park Hyatt Tokyo is located around 12 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station's Koshu-Kaido Exit. The station is served by numerous lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, and the Odakyu Odawara Line to name just a handful.

For those who opt to drive, on-site parking is available. Guests who spend at least ¥ 3000 at the hotel's restaurants receive two hours parking for free. Outside that, the rate is ¥ 250 for every 30 minute increment.

Kim Bergström

Kim Bergström @kim.b

Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here.  🍵🌼🌸