Experience the Art of Japanese Tea Aboard Fingal – Edinburgh’s Floating Luxury Hotel

Cultural ambassador Mio Shudo

Step aboard Fingal, Edinburgh’s award-winning floating hotel, for an unforgettable afternoon steeped in tradition, flavour, and elegance.

On Saturday 1st November, from 2pm to 4pm, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the serene world of Japanese tea culture during a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea experience.

A Rare Cultural Encounter: Japanese Tea Ceremony with Mio Shudo

Renowned Urasenke Tea Master and cultural ambassador Mio Shudo will host an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in Fingal’s opulent ballroom. Dressed in ceremonial kimono, Mio will guide guests through the centuries-old rituals and philosophy of this graceful art form — a meditative practice rooted in harmony, respect, and tranquillity.

A Japanese-Inspired Afternoon Tea Menu

Fingal’s chefs have crafted a bespoke afternoon tea menu to complement the ceremony, blending Scottish produce with Japanese flavours:

Savoury Delights:

• Dashi broth with seaweed, yellow miso, chard, spring onion, and tofu

• Bluefin tuna marinated in ginger and garlic, wrapped in nori and tempura-fried, served with soy dressing and wasabi

• Seasoned sushi rice with smoked salmon, rolled in toasted sesame seeds and served with pickled radish

• Finger sandwiches in Japanese milk bread, including crispy chicken with tonkatsu sauce and cabbage slaw

  
  

Sweet Treats:

• Mango sponge roll with Chantilly cream

• Cherry confit with matcha green tea mousse

• Adzuki red bean milk bun

Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a curated selection of teas, enhancing the sensory journey.

About Mio Shudo

Mio Shudo is a respected Japanese cultural expert with over 25 years of experience delivering talks, workshops, and performances across Scotland. A gifted musician, she is also the resident pianist and harpist aboard both Fingal and The Royal Yacht Britannia, and an accomplished player of the traditional Japanese Koto.

“It’s my honour to share the beauty and tranquillity of the Japanese tea ceremony aboard Fingal,” says Mio. “This timeless ritual is more than the preparation of tea — it is a moment of reflection, connection, and grace.”

Fingal: Edinburgh’s Premier Afternoon Tea Destination

Permanently berthed in the historic Port of Leith, Fingal combines the glamour of a superyacht with the elegance of an Art Deco ocean liner. Open to non-residents for afternoon tea, dinner, and cocktails, its Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar holds two AA Rosettes and offers private dining booths for intimate gatherings.

Earlier this year, Fingal appointed Judit Toomey-Kovacs as its in-house tea sommelier, further elevating its afternoon tea experience with expert pairings and personalised recommendations.

New for winter 2025, Fingal will unveil its Chef’s Table in The Bridge — the ship’s former command centre — offering a seasonal tasting menu for 6 to 10 guests with a strong Scottish heart.

Event Details

🗓️ Date: Saturday 1st November 2025 🕑 Time: 2pm – 4pm 📍 Location: Fingal, Alexandra Dock, Port of Leith, Edinburgh 🚋 Direct tram access from Edinburgh city centre and airport

🎟️ Tickets: £80 per person 📞 Bookings: Call 0131 357 5000 (Mon–Fri)