Wazuka: Tea Picking Experience with Matcha Tea Tasting

Planning a trip to Japan and eager to get a true taste of its tea culture? The Wazuka: Tea Picking Experience with Matcha Tea Tasting offers an authentic, hands-on glimpse into Japan’s famous green tea world. This tour isn’t just about sipping matcha; it’s about understanding the journey from leaf to cup, in the very fields that produce nearly 40% of Uji’s matcha.

What we love about this experience is how it combines learning, participation, and tasting. You get to pick green tea leaves yourself, learn from a passionate local guide, and enjoy a fresh-cooked cup of matcha. It’s a real peek into the countryside’s quiet, verdant beauty — a chance to step away from the busy city scenes and connect with a centuries-old tradition.

The only potential caveat? The price of $450 per person may seem high for some, especially since it’s a relatively short experience. However, the inclusion of all equipment, expert guidance, and an authentic farming experience adds tangible value. This tour is best suited for tea enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those craving an immersive cultural activity in the Kyoto area.

Key Points

• Authentic hands-on experience of picking green tea leaves in the Japanese countryside.
• Learn directly from a local passionate about matcha, gaining insight into the production process.
• Enjoy a traditional matcha tea and sweet dumplings (chadango) for a truly authentic taste.
• Small group, guided experience ensures personalized attention and cultural exchange.
• All necessary equipment provided, making it easy to participate comfortably.
• Suitable for travelers over 10 years old but not for those with mobility issues or altitude sickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Wazuka Tea Experience

Setting the Scene: Wazuka, the Heart of Matcha Production

Wazuka is a peaceful town in southeastern Kyoto, famous for its tea fields. Over the years, it has become a hub for authentic matcha production, contributing nearly 40% of Uji’s annual output. The area’s lush, terraced hills and quiet rural roads create a perfect backdrop for a hands-on tea adventure.

Visitors are picked up from a designated meeting point and transported to the scenic countryside. As you arrive, the tranquility of the rural landscape makes it clear why Wazuka has maintained its traditional tea-farming roots for generations.

The Guided Tour: Passionate Local Guides

Your guide is a local resident, enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge. According to reviews, guides are friendly and eager to explain the entire journey of tea—from planting to processing. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, a long-time resident, was “passionate about matcha and proud to show us his favorite spots.” Expect to learn the nuances of tea cultivation, harvest timing, and the significance of different leaf types.

Hands-On Tea Picking: From Soil to Cup

The core of the experience is picking green tea leaves. Equipped with appropriate gear, you’ll be guided through the process of selecting and harvesting fresh leaves straight from the plants. The activity is designed to be accessible, though it requires some physical activity; comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended.

This part of the tour is especially valuable because it lets you see firsthand the effort that goes into producing matcha, and understand why it’s such a treasured commodity in Japan. One guest remarked, “Picking the tea leaves was surprisingly enjoyable; it gave me a new appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.”

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Tea Tasting: The Fruit of Your Labor

After harvesting, you’ll be treated to a traditional cup of matcha prepared by your guide. The freshly brewed tea offers a vibrant, grassy flavor that’s quite different from the powdered matcha you might find in stores. Accompanying the tea are two pieces of chadango, sweet dumplings flavored with tea, providing a perfect, not-too-sweet contrast.

Guests often comment on how the tea tasting feels very authentic, highlighting the difference between freshly prepared matcha and store-bought options. One reviewer noted, “The matcha was so smooth and flavorful, I could taste the freshness in every sip.”

Cultural Insights and Additional Delights

Throughout the experience, guides share stories about Wazuka’s history and the importance of tea in Japanese culture. The tour also includes time to enjoy the scenic views, take photos, and soak in the countryside atmosphere.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Know

The tour costs $450 per person, which covers everything — guidance, equipment, tea, and sweets. The price might seem steep, but considering the depth of the experience, personalized guidance, and authentic participation, many find it worthwhile. It’s a full, engaging activity that provides not just a taste of matcha but a deeper understanding of its origins.

The tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to a Kyoto day trip. It’s not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or those with altitude sickness, as the activity involves outdoor walking on uneven terrain.

Additional reviews highlight the value of the experience:

• One guest praised the “small group setting, which made it feel very personal and relaxed,” adding that the guide was “knowledgeable and enthusiastic.”
• Another noted that the equipment was comfortable and easy to use, even for first-timers.
• A common theme was the appreciation for the authenticity and simplicity of the activity, which felt more genuine than commercialized tours.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This experience isn’t just about tasting tea; it’s about connecting with a centuries-old tradition. For tea lovers, it’s a rare chance to pick leaves yourself, understand the craftsmanship behind matcha, and enjoy a fresh brew in the very fields that produce it. The inclusion of a local guide adds richness and context, transforming this from a simple activity into a meaningful cultural exchange.

While the cost might seem high, the all-inclusive nature—equipment, guidance, tasting, and sweets—justifies it for those wanting a comprehensive, memorable experience. It’s especially rewarding if you’re eager to learn more than just how to prepare matcha but to understand the story behind the drink.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for dedicated tea enthusiasts, those wanting a genuine hands-on activity in Japan’s tea country, or anyone interested in Japanese rural life. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity and are comfortable with outdoor activities. Keep in mind it’s not suitable for very young children, mobility-impaired visitors, or those sensitive to altitude or heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not recommended for this tour. It involves outdoor activity and some physical effort, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water. Since the activity takes place outdoors, these items will help you stay comfortable and protected.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Yes, the tour doesn’t allow baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, or touching plants outside the designated activity area. It’s also not suitable for wheelchair users or people with altitude sickness.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour conducted in multiple languages?
Guidance is available in Javanese and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 2 to 3 hours, which makes it easy to slot into a day trip from Kyoto or nearby areas.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just wear comfortable clothing and bring sun protection and water. No special preparation is needed.

What makes this experience different from other tea tours?
This one offers hands-on leaf picking and the chance to see the actual fields where matcha is produced, emphasizing authenticity over staged performances.

The Wazuka Tea Picking and Matcha Tasting Experience offers a rare opportunity to see and participate in the real-world process of Japanese tea-making. It’s a meaningful activity that combines education, cultural appreciation, and sensory delight — perfect for those who want more than just a tasting, but an actual connection to the land and tradition.

While it comes with a higher price tag, the experience delivers value through its authenticity and personalized guidance. It’s best suited for tea aficionados and curious travelers eager to experience Japan’s countryside and craft in a truly intimate way. If you’re seeking a memorable, educational, and delicious activity that celebrates Japan’s tea heritage, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or simply curious about Japan’s beloved beverage, this experience promises a refreshing taste of tradition and countryside charm that you won’t forget anytime soon.

You can check availability for your dates here: