Japan’s rich tea culture takes center stage in this 7-day immersive tour. Visitors will explore iconic temples, discover traditional tea harvesting techniques, and experience the artistry behind black tea production. With hands-on workshops and authentic dining, this journey promises a deep appreciation for the centuries-old craftsmanship that defines Japan’s celebrated tea heritage. Whether a tea enthusiast or simply curious, this tour offers a unique window into a revered aspect of Japanese tradition.

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Key Points

Immersive 7-day tour focused on Japan’s tea culture, including visits to centuries-old tea plantations in Uji and exploration of unique black tea production in Aizu-wakamatsu.
Experience the art of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto, deepening appreciation for the craftsmanship of tea throughout the journey.
Stay in a traditional ryokan in Kyoto, a quaint guest house surrounded by tea fields in Uji, and a modern hotel near Tokyo Station for convenience.
Savor authentic Japanese cuisine, including 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners, complementing the tea immersion experience.
Participate in hands-on activities such as tea picking at a family-owned farm and a tea blending workshop for personalized blends.

Tour Highlights

As you embark on this immersive 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the rich heritage and intricate techniques that define Japan’s renowned tea culture.

You’ll visit centuries-old tea plantations in Uji, where you’ll learn the traditional methods of harvesting and processing leaves.

In Kyoto, you’ll witness the tranquil art of the tea ceremony, gaining insights into its centuries-old traditions.

The tour also takes you to Aizu-wakamatsu, known for its unique black tea production, where you’ll explore tea factories and learn from expert artisans.

This immersive journey promises to deepen your appreciation for the craftsmanship of tea.

Looking for more options in Kyoto? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary

This 7-day tour kicks off in Kyoto, where you will witness the renowned Kiyomizudera temple and its iconic wooden stage.

Next, they’ll visit Uji, a city renowned for its exceptional green tea cultivation. The group will then travel to Aizu-wakamatsu, exploring its historical samurai legacy and Tsuruga Castle.

Highlights include:

Hands-on tea picking and processing at a family-owned tea farm
A sake brewery tour and tasting in Aizu-wakamatsu
Visits to Raku-yaki pottery studios and workshops
A farewell dinner in Tokyo, celebrating the tour’s end.

Accommodation

Throughout the 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour, you will stay in a variety of carefully selected accommodations that reflect the cultural heritage and local charm of the regions visited.

In Kyoto, guests will experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a ryokan, a type of inn with tatami mat rooms and onsen hot springs.

In Uji, a historic tea town, you will stay at a quaint guest house surrounded by tea fields.

The tour concludes with a night in a modern hotel near Tokyo Station, providing convenient access for departure.

Meals and Dining

Meals during the Craftsmanship of Tea Tour are thoughtfully curated to immerse participants in the culinary traditions of the regions visited.

The tour includes:

4 breakfasts, offering a sampling of Japanese breakfast classics like miso soup, grilled fish, and seasonal produce.
2 lunches showcasing regional specialties, such as Kobe beef in Kyoto and Aizu-wakamatsu’s renowned beef and rice dishes.
2 dinners, one featuring a multi-course kaiseki meal and another highlighting local izakaya-style cuisine.

These meals provide an authentic taste of Japan’s rich gastronomic heritage, complementing the immersive tea experiences throughout the tour.

Transportation

The Craftsmanship of Tea Tour includes carefully planned transportation to ensure participants seamlessly experience the tour’s highlights.

Throughout the 7-day journey, transportation is provided as specified in the itinerary. This includes train travel between Kyoto, Uji, and Aizu-wakamatsu, as well as transportation to visit tea farms, factories, and cultural sites.

The tour also provides transportation to and from the meeting and end points, making it convenient for participants.

All transportation expenses are included in the tour price, allowing travelers to focus on seeing the art of Japanese tea craftsmanship.

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Activities and Experiences

As the core focus of the Craftsmanship of Tea Tour, participants enjoy a rich tapestry of tea-related experiences throughout the 7-day journey.

Highlights include:

Visiting renowned tea plantations in Uji to witness the meticulous cultivation and harvesting techniques.
Mastering the art of traditional Japanese tea ceremony under the guidance of a certified tea master.
Exploring historic tea houses and sampling a variety of premium matcha, sencha, and other specialty teas.
Participating in a hands-on tea blending workshop to create a personalized tea blend to take home.

What’s Included

To ensure a seamless and enriching experience, the Craftsmanship of Tea Tour includes a comprehensive package of meals, transportation, and activities.

Participants will enjoy 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners during the 7-day journey. Ground transportation, as specified in the itinerary, is provided.

All entrance fees for the listed experiences are covered. An English-speaking guide is also included to facilitate the tour.

The tour is available for up to 6 private participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate exploration of the region’s tea craftsmanship.

Booking and Payment

Although the Craftsmanship of Tea Tour is priced at a starting cost of €27,929.66 per group, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure their participation.

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring guests get the best value.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Moderate physical fitness is required.
Free cancellation is available up to 6 days in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration Beyond 7 Days?

The tour duration can likely be extended beyond 7 days, but this would require additional fees and coordination with the tour operator. Travelers should contact the provider to discuss any desired changes to the standard 7-day itinerary.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary. Guests can work with the operator to adjust the activities, duration, and other aspects of the tour to suit their preferences and needs.

Do I Need to Obtain a Visa for This Tour?

Participants may need to obtain a visa for this tour, depending on their nationality. It’s recommended to check the current visa requirements for travel to Japan prior to booking the tour.

Can I Request Special Dietary Requirements During the Tour?

Yes, you can request special dietary requirements for this tour. The tour operator is likely to accommodate dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, if you inform them in advance when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Book the Tour for Fewer Than 6 Participants?

Yes, the tour can be booked for fewer than 6 participants. It’s a private tour, so the group size is flexible and can accommodate smaller groups. Pricing may be adjusted based on the number of participants.

The Sum Up

The 7-Day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour provides an immersive experience into Japan’s rich tea culture. Participants will explore iconic temples, learn traditional tea harvesting techniques, and engage in hands-on workshops. With authentic dining experiences and transportation included, this tour offers a deep appreciation for the artistry and heritage of Japanese tea, making it an ideal choice for tea enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.