Cycling Tour at Uji’s Matcha Green Tea Fields and Heritage

If you’re visiting Japan and want a relaxed way to experience the essence of Uji, this cycling tour offers a memorable blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious local treats. While I haven’t personally taken this exact ride, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-thought-out experience that balances ease with authentic discovery.

What truly stands out are the expert guides, the beautiful riverside routes, and the opportunity to learn about matcha from real insiders. Plus, the chance to visit Byodoin Phoenix Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds a historical dimension that makes this tour stand apart.

A possible consideration is that the tour is designed for a “slow cycling” pace—perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more leisurely exploration rather than intense biking. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, authentic glimpse into Uji’s lush landscapes and rich tea culture. If you’re someone who loves a relaxed pace and meaningful local encounters, this tour is a solid match.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable locals who share stories beyond the typical tourist spots.
• Scenic Routes: Enjoy quiet riverside cycling that most visitors miss.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit historic temples, including the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Phoenix Hall.
• Food & Drink: Tastes at specialty matcha shops and the chance to purchase quality tea to take home.
• Accessible for All: The slow cycling format makes it suitable for different fitness levels.
• Flexible & Customizable: Tour course can be adjusted to your preferences, making each ride unique.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Uji and the Tour

Uji, located just south of Kyoto, is renowned for its matcha green tea, which has earned worldwide fame. Beyond tea, Uji boasts over a thousand years of history, with temples, shrines, and noble villas that whisper stories of Japan’s medieval past.

This cycling experience promises a relaxed, engaging way to explore these treasures with a local guide and a BROMPTON bicycle—a stylish, foldable bike that’s perfect for city and countryside riding. The tour is designed to be approachable whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or someone who enjoys a gentle pedal through beautiful surroundings.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the small-group feel—your guide, who is fluent in English, ensures you’re comfortable, informed, and able to ask questions along the way. Plus, all equipment, including helmets and bags, are provided—meaning you can focus entirely on the experience without fussing over logistics.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Meeting Point & Start

Your journey begins in front of the Tea Jar post, just outside JR Uji Station. From here, your guide will hand you a BROMPTON bike and go over safety essentials. Expect a warm introduction to the route, which can be customized to your interests.

Scenic Riverside Cycling

Much of the tour follows a quiet course along the Uji River, an area known only to locals and savvy travelers. We loved the way this route avoids busy roads, providing a peaceful backdrop where you can truly take in the calm waters and lush greenery. The reviews confirm that the riverside ride is a highlight, with Jina noting, “Biking around the Uji river was my favorite part. Uji is so beautiful and peaceful.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Historic and Cultural Stops

One of the key highlights is visiting Byodoin Phoenix Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic building, famous for its elegant architecture and scenic pond views, allows for some great photos and a chance to learn about Japan’s history. The guide will explain its significance, making it more than just a pretty sight.

Other stops include medieval noble villas and temples, some dating back over a thousand years. Travelers like Ana appreciated that the guide brought them to places they wouldn’t have found on their own, making this more than just a sightseeing ride.

Tea & Local Delicacies

A major part of the tour is visiting a specialty matcha store, where you can sample some of the best matcha drinks in Uji—a claim supported by Ana, who says she had one of her best matcha drinks here. You also have the opportunity to buy matcha powder and other tea products to bring back home.

Flexible Tour Course & Duration

The tour usually lasts around a few hours, but can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you want more temple visits, extra tea tastings, or a longer riverside ride, your guide can accommodate. This flexibility ensures each ride feels personal and unhurried.

End of Tour

The ride concludes back at the starting point outside JR Uji Station, leaving you with a relaxed mind and plenty of new knowledge about Uji’s cultural and natural riches.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $160 per person, this experience provides a guided, all-inclusive ride with bicycle rental, safety gear, and an engaging guide. When you factor in the private insights, access to hidden spots, and the chance to enjoy locally loved foods and tea, it offers excellent value for a half-day adventure.

Compared with typical guided tours, the small group size and focus on authentic storytelling elevate this experience, giving you a richer understanding of Uji beyond just sightseeing. For those who love photography, the scenic routes and iconic sites like Byodoin offer plenty of stunning backdrops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts wanting a leisurely, in-depth look at Uji’s historic sites and tea culture. It’s also perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful riverside escape. The accessible pace makes it suitable for families, seniors, or casual cyclists.

If you’re curious about Japan’s tea traditions or simply want a relaxed way to explore a less touristy side of Kyoto Prefecture, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate local storytelling and authentic tastes.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking & Flexibility: You can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, easing travel uncertainties.
• Language: Guides operate in Japanese and English, so language will rarely be a barrier.
• Equipment & Comfort: All gear is provided, but bringing a hat and sunscreen is recommended for sunny days.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees for Byodoin and the Uji Town Exchange Centre are optional but worth considering for history buffs.
• Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention, making it more comfortable for those new to cycling.

FAQ

Is the cycling tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be a slow and easy ride, making it accessible even for those who are not confident cyclists.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration can vary based on your preferences, it generally lasts a few hours, including stops for sightseeing and tastings.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for cycling, plus sun protection like a hat or sunscreen, are recommended.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets and other necessary equipment are included in the tour price.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely, the course can be arranged according to your interests, whether focusing more on temples, food, or nature.

What is included in the price?
Bicycle rental, guide fees, equipment, and the guide’s knowledge are included. Entrance fees and food are optional extras.

Is there space to store personal belongings?
Yes, bags for wheeled transport are provided, and your guide can advise on storage options.

Can I join if I am traveling alone?
Yes, the experience is suitable for solo travelers, and small group sizes ensure a friendly, personal atmosphere.

What if it rains?
Check the weather forecast beforehand. Slight rain typically won’t stop the tour, but heavy rain might require rescheduling or cancellation.

Is it easy to find the meeting point?
Yes, the tour starts just outside JR Uji Station at the Tea Jar post, a well-known landmark.

Final Thoughts

This cycling tour in Uji offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors. The relaxed pace ensures you can truly absorb the tranquil atmosphere and learn about Japan’s prized matcha. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll uncover hidden corners and hear stories that bring the history to life.

Ideal for those who want an authentic, low-stress experience, it provides a fantastic way to see Uji’s lush landscapes and historic sites without the rush of larger group tours. Whether you’re a tea lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this ride promises memorable moments and plenty to talk about afterward.

If you’re looking to enjoy Uji’s famed green tea, scenic rivers, and gentle cycling paths, this experience offers genuine value—and a lovely day out in Japan’s green heartland.

Note: Always double-check availability and specific details closer to your travel date, as schedules and offerings can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: