The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour promises an immersive exploration into the world of premium matcha. Visitors will discover the intricacies of different matcha varieties, venture into hidden local tea shops, and partake in a hands-on matcha-making workshop. The experience also includes a delectable set lunch featuring traditional Wagashi sweets and indulgent matcha ice cream, as well as a visit to the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple. With a small group size, this tour ensures a personalized journey into Japan’s revered tea culture. Those seeking to deepen their appreciation for the art of matcha will find this tour highly engaging.
Key Points
- Immersive experience exploring the exceptional matcha of Uji, including discovering various matcha types and hidden local tea shops.
- Hands-on matcha-making workshop and sampling of traditional Wagashi sweets, along with a set lunch at a local restaurant.
- Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byodoin Temple, a highlight of the tour.
- Maximum group size of 10 for personalized exploration of Kyoto’s tea culture.
- Flexible cancellation policy with a lowest price guarantee.
Tour Overview
The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Uji, renowned for its exceptional quality matcha.
Highlights include discovering various matcha types, visiting hidden local tea shops, and tasting matcha.
The tour includes a set lunch, matcha making, Wagashi sweets, and matcha ice cream.
Travelers also have the opportunity to visit the Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized and intimate exploration of Uji’s rich tea culture and traditions.
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Highlights of the Tour
Highlights of the tour include discovering various Matcha types, visiting hidden local tea shops, and tasting Matcha.
The experience also features:
- A set lunch at a local restaurant
- Matcha making demonstration and hands-on workshop
- Sampling of traditional Wagashi sweets
- Indulging in Matcha ice cream
In addition, the tour includes a visit to the stunning Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guests will enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of Uji’s renowned tea industry throughout this comprehensive Matcha-focused experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes Matcha tasting, a set lunch at a local restaurant, a tea experience, and shopping time.
Pickup and drop-off at the meeting point are provided, and gratuities are included.
The tour does not cover food and drinks not specified in the inclusions, nor any transportation costs.
Participants must have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour may involve walking.
Changes to the tour may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, and substitutions will be made.
The tour is vegetarian-friendly but not recommended for vegans or those with gluten-free dietary requirements.
Meeting and End Points
The meeting point for the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour is Uji Station, specifically the Keihan Uji Station entrance, located at 7-13, Uji-Otsukata, Uji, Kyoto 〒611-0021.
The tour ends at the iconic Byodo-in, situated at Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021. The tour starts at 11:00 am.
The key meeting and end points include:
- Uji Station (Keihan Uji Station entrance)
- Byodo-in
- Start time at 11:00 am
- End point at Byodo-in, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Additional Information
Confirmation of booking is received upon completion, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and a passport copy is required for kids 10 and above. The tour is family-friendly, with a minimum drinking age of 21.
The group size is capped at 10 travelers, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.
Changes to the tour may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, and substitutions will be made.
The tour is vegetarian-friendly but not recommended for vegans or those with gluten-free diets.
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Pricing and Cancellation Policy
The price of the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour starts from €217.80 per person. This tour includes a lowest price guarantee, allowing you to book with confidence.
Plus, the tour offers:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
- Reserve Now and Pay Later option available
- Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult, with passport copy required for kids 10 and above
- Maximum group size is 10 travelers to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.
Due to the tour’s popularity, it’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
Positive Guest Reviews
Positive guest reviews highlight the warm hospitality and attention to detail that travelers experienced on the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour.
A recent review described the "warm welcome and gracious hospitality" during the green tea and Japanese food experience in Uji.
Reviewers consistently praised the tour’s focus on immersing visitors in the local tea culture, from discovering various matcha types to visiting hidden tea shops.
With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 21 reviews, the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour has earned a Badge of Excellence, recommended by 95% of travelers.
Exploring Uji, the Matcha Capital
Although Uji is renowned as the epicenter of Japan’s premium matcha production, the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers an immersive experience that extends beyond the renowned tea plantations.
Guests will:
- Discover hidden local teahouses and savor rare matcha varieties
- Witness the centuries-old tradition of matcha preparation
- Indulge in a set lunch featuring seasonal Japanese cuisine
- Visit the iconic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
This multifaceted tour provides an authentic glimpse into Uji’s vibrant tea culture, blending history, craftsmanship, and culinary delights for an unforgettable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Join This Tour as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. The tour has a maximum group size of 10 people, providing an intimate and personalized experience. Solo travelers are welcome to join and will not feel out of place.
Is English Spoken by the Tour Guides?
The tour provides English-speaking guides to assist solo travelers. Participants can expect clear communication and a seamless experience during the activities, which include discovering Matcha varieties, visiting local tea shops, and tasting traditional Japanese sweets.
Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended, though details are not explicitly provided. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about any options to customize or extend the standard tour length, as accommodations may be possible based on availability and additional fees.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, private tours can typically be requested for this experience. Travelers may inquire about upgrading to a private tour at an additional cost, which can provide a more personalized and flexible itinerary. Availability and pricing for a private tour would need to be confirmed.
Do I Need to Know Anything About Matcha Before Joining the Tour?
No prior knowledge of matcha is required to join this tour. The experienced guides will introduce visitors to the various types of matcha and provide a hands-on learning experience, even for those new to the world of Japanese green tea.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers an immersive experience into Japan’s rich tea culture. Participants can explore the renowned matcha of Uji, learn about different varieties, and enjoy hands-on workshops and traditional cuisine. With a personalized approach and visits to historical sites, this tour provides a comprehensive journey into the world of premium Japanese green tea.
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