Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodo in Temple Private Tour

The Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodo-in Temple Private Tour offers a unique culture in Japan’s storied tea heritage. Visitors can experience the vibrant tea picking season, learn about the renowned Byodo-in Temple, and savor a complimentary lunch – all while gaining insights into the intricate traditions that have defined this region for centuries. Whether a tea enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Uji’s captivating landscapes and rich history.

This experience made our article of 11 Best Tours in Uji.

Key Points

• This private tour in Uji, Japan, offers a unique experience of tea picking and visiting the historic Byodoin Temple.
• The tour is scheduled during the prime tea picking season from April 13 to mid-May.
• The tour includes a complimentary lunch and is priced from $73.08 per person for a private tour.
• Participants will meet at Uji Station and the tour ends at Byodoin Temple.
• In case of inclement weather, the tour may be replaced with a matcha making experience at Sankyuan Tea House.

Tour Overview

The tour is named the "Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodo-in Temple Private Tour" and takes place in Uji, Japan.

It offers an experience of tea picking and a visit to Byodoin Temple. The tour is scheduled from April 13 to mid-May, which is the tea picking season.

The price starts from $73.08 per person, and it’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate.

The tour duration isn’t specified, but it’s scheduled within the tea picking season.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this tour is Uji Station, located at Otsukata Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan.

The tour ends at Byodoin Temple, Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan. It starts at 9:30 AM.

The guide will have a board for identification. The tour utilizes public transport, but seats aren’t reserved.

Promptness at the meeting time is required. The schedule may change due to traffic, and there are no refunds for late arrivals.

Participants are responsible for their own valuables.

What to Expect

This tour provides an inclusive experience, with all necessary fees and admission costs covered. Participants will enjoy a complimentary lunch during their time exploring the region. However, visitors should note that high congestion is expected on weekends, holidays, and event days, potentially impacting the schedule. In the event of inclement weather, the tea picking activity may be replaced by a matcha making experience at Sankyuan Tea House.

What’s Included	What’s Not Included
– Tea picking experience	– Personal transportation
– Entry to Byodoin Temple	– Gratuities
– Lunch	– Travel insurance
– Confirmation within 48 hours	– Incidentals
– Guide with identification	– Souvenirs

Important Notes

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation.

Most travelers can participate, with infants under 2 sitting on laps.

Promptness is required at the meeting time, as the schedule may change due to traffic.

In the event of natural disasters, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled with a full refund. Guests are responsible for their own valuables.

• Not wheelchair accessible; near public transport
• Most travelers can participate; infants under 2 sit on laps
• Arrival: Promptness required at meeting time
• In case of natural disasters (e.g., typhoon), tour canceled with full refund

Tea Picking Event

If the rain forecast is 70% or higher, the tea picking event will be canceled and replaced by a matcha making experience at the Sankyuan Tea House. This provides an alternative activity that immerses participants in traditional Japanese tea culture.

Criteria	Details
Overview	Matcha making demonstration and tasting at the Sankyuan Tea House
Duration	Approximately 1 hour
Inclusion	Instruction, matcha sample, and traditional Japanese sweets
Accessibility	Suitable for all skill levels, including beginners
Highlights	Learn about the history and preparation of matcha tea

This option ensures visitors can still enjoy an authentic cultural experience even in inclement weather.

Byodo-in Temple Visit

After experiencing the tea picking activity, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Byodo-in Temple.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in 1053 AD, is renowned for its stunning Phoenix Hall and beautifully preserved gardens.

Visitors can:

• Explore the magnificent architecture and learn about the temple’s history
• Stroll through the serene gardens and admire the iconic pond and bridges
• Gain insights into Japanese Buddhist culture and traditions
• Capture memorable photos of the photogenic temple and its reflections

The Byodo-in Temple visit provides a perfect complement to the tea picking experience, offering a deep dive into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Traveler Reviews

Traveler reviews for the Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodo-in Temple Tour generally reflect a positive experience, with one review praising the tour as "fun and educational."

However, some reviewers noted a language barrier with the guide, which may present a challenge for non-Japanese speakers.

The tour received a rating of 4.0 out of 5, indicating that most visitors were satisfied with the overall experience.

Given the high congestion expected on weekends, holidays, and event days, travelers should plan accordingly and arrive promptly at the meeting time to ensure a smooth tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Picking Experience?

There is no specific dress code for the tea picking experience. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, as the activity takes place outdoors in the tea fields. Participants should dress for the weather conditions on the day of the tour.

Can We Purchase Tea Leaves or Tea Products During the Tour?

Participants can purchase tea leaves and tea products during the tea picking experience. The tour includes a visit to a tea house where visitors can buy various types of Uji tea directly from the source.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues, as it is noted to be "not wheelchair accessible." However, most travelers can participate, with infants under 2 able to sit on laps.

How Much Time Is Allocated for the Tea Picking Activity?

The tour doesn’t specify an exact duration for the tea picking activity, though it’s scheduled during the tea picking season from April 13 to mid-May. Participants can expect to spend time engaging in the tea picking experience as part of the overall tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, though infants under 2 must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible but is near public transport.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a unique cultural experience in Uji, Japan during the vibrant tea picking season. Participants engage in tea picking and visit the historic Byodo-in Temple, gaining insights into Japan’s rich tea heritage. The tour includes all fees, a complimentary lunch, and alternative activities in case of rain, making it an immersive journey for travelers of all skill levels.