Shizuoka: Japanese Tea Tour with Tasting and Tea Making

Experiencing Japanese tea culture firsthand is a true highlight for any traveler interested in Japan’s traditions. This Shizuoka: Japanese Tea Tour with Tasting and Tea Making offers an engaging look into Japan’s most renowned tea-producing region, combining educational visits, hands-on activities, and tasting sessions.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you’ll get to sample a variety of premium teas like sencha, gyokuro, houjicha, and matcha—each with distinct flavors and aromas. Second, the opportunity to blend your own tea to bring home is a rare treat that adds a personal touch. Third, making traditional Japanese confections, or nerikiri wagashi, enhances your understanding of pairing sweets with tea.

A potential consideration is the price point of $470 per person, which might seem steep for some, but it includes a full day of immersive activities and expert guidance. It’s best suited for those who love tea, cultural experiences, and don’t mind a bit of walking outdoors. This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of Japan’s tea craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Authentic learning from local tea farmers and experts
• Wide selection of teas, from green to roasted varieties
• Interactive experiences like blending and wagashi making
• Beautiful scenery of sprawling tea fields
• Cultural enrichment with tea ceremonies and factory tours
• Great for lovers of hands-on learning and authentic Japanese traditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Shizuoka Tea Experience

Setting the Scene: Green Hills and Tea Fields
The tour begins with a meet-up at your accommodation, where your guide will introduce you to the lush, terraced tea plantations of Shizuoka’s Shuchi County. These precisely maintained tea bushes cascade down hilly slopes, creating postcard-worthy vistas that instantly set the scene for a day in nature and tradition. Many visitors mention how stunning the views are, especially with the backdrop of verdant hills that seem to stretch endlessly.

Visit to Osada Tea Headquarters and Tasting Session
A highlight is the visit to Osada Tea Co. Ltd., where you’ll have the chance to sample a selection of top-tier Shizuoka teas. This is not just tasting for fun—it’s a lesson in appreciating the subtle differences between teas. From the delicate, sweet notes of gyokuro to the smoky roasted flavor of houjicha, each sip is an education. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained how to identify different teas by touch, smell, and taste,” making this experience both educational and sensory-rich.

Walking Through the Tea Factory
Next, you’ll walk through the factory where the tea is processed. Watching freshly picked leaves transform into the fine powder or brewed leaves is fascinating. The air smells of fresh green tea, and many guests comment on how clean and bright the space is. The guide will reveal secrets about tea production, clarifying what makes Japanese green teas unique.

Hands-On Tea Roasting
Adding a personal touch, you’ll get to roast Japanese tea yourself. This is an uncommon activity that many find surprisingly enjoyable, connecting you directly with the craft. It’s an excellent way to understand the effort behind each cup, and it adds a sensory layer to your knowledge.

Tea Blending Workshop
Perhaps the most memorable part is creating your own custom tea blend. Using different tea leaves, you can experiment with flavors and aromas, then package your creation to take home. Reviewers appreciate this aspect, sharing that making their own blend felt “personal and rewarding.” It’s an experience that turns tea appreciation into a tangible souvenir.

Making and Enjoying Wagashi
No Japanese tea experience is complete without a sweet pairing, so you’ll craft nerikiri wagashi, traditional confections molded into seasonal shapes. The process involves working with sweet bean paste, and many say it’s both relaxing and fun. Afterward, you’ll whisk up a frothy bowl of matcha for a proper tea ceremony, enjoying your sweets with the perfect cup.

Final Stop at Osada Tea House
The tour wraps up with a calming visit to the tea house, where you can savor a final cup of matcha. Many guests mention how peaceful and authentic this moment is, often sharing photos of the serene tea garden setting.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The $470 fee covers everything from tastings, factory tours, roasting, tea blending, wagashi making, and the tea ceremony. This comprehensive package offers excellent value, especially given the quality of activities and expert guidance. However, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly. The tour lasts a full day, with a relaxed pace that allows for questions and personal discoveries.

Participants have praised the friendly and knowledgeable guides, often mentioning how approachable and passionate they are about tea. The small group sizes foster an intimate experience—perfect for anyone who prefers personalized interaction rather than a large, impersonal tour.

Practical tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes since there’s some walking involved.
• Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and your craft projects.
• The tour is available in English, Japanese, and Korean, making it accessible for many travelers.

Limitations:

• Not suitable for children under 5, wheelchair users, or those with food allergies.
• The experience is outdoors at times, so weather can influence the day.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re passionate about tea or curious about Japanese culture, this tour offers more than just a tasting. It’s a full educational journey, allowing you to understand the craftsmanship behind each cup. The hands-on blending, roasting, and wagashi making are engaging activities that create lasting memories. The scenic views of Shizuoka’s expansive tea fields make every moment visually rewarding, yet it’s the interaction with local farmers and artisans that truly stands out.

On top of that, this experience provides a deep dive into Japan’s green tea traditions, giving you insights you can carry home—whether it’s the skill to brew a better cup or the knowledge to appreciate the artistry behind each brew.

While the price may seem high, think of it as an investment in a unique, authentic experience that combines culture, nature, and culinary arts—something you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Perfect for:

• Tea lovers seeking an immersive experience
• Cultural enthusiasts wanting hands-on activities
• Travelers looking for meaningful local interactions
• Those who appreciate scenic landscapes and outdoor activities

Less suited for:

• Budget travelers on a tight schedule
• Guests with mobility issues or strict dietary restrictions without prior arrangements

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation to and from the activity is not included. You should arrange your own travel to the designated meeting location, usually your accommodation.

How much walking is involved?
There is some walking involved, especially when exploring the tea farms and factory areas, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. These will help you enjoy the outdoor portions comfortably and capture the scenery.

Can I participate if I have food allergies?
This tour is not suitable for people with food allergies, as making wagashi involves bean paste and other ingredients that might not be allergy-friendly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is generally not recommended for children under 5 years old, given the activities involved and the adult-focused nature of the experience.

Are there options to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with a flexible booking policy and pay later, which is ideal for planning your trip.

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Final Thoughts

The Shizuoka Japanese Tea Tour with Tasting and Tea Making offers a genuine, hands-on immersion into Japan’s cherished tea traditions. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how tea is cultivated, processed, and enjoyed, along with your own custom blend and crafted wagashi. It’s a chance to slow down, learn, and savor the beautiful scenery—perfect for travelers who love authentic experiences and cultural depth.

While the price is on the higher side, the combination of tasting, making, and exploring makes this tour a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to go beyond the typical sightseeing. Expect beautiful views, engaging activities, and plenty of opportunities to connect with local artisans. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or just curious about Japan’s green gold, this experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Note: For those who want a memorable, educational, and delicious day in Japan’s premier tea region, this tour hits the mark. It balances learning and fun in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here: