7 Day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour in Kyoto, Uji and Aizu-wakamatsu

Delving into Japan’s rich tea culture, the 7-Day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour offers an immersive experience. Exploring the picturesque landscapes of Kyoto, Uji, and Aizu-wakamatsu, participants can engage in authentic tea-related activities guided by experts. Flexible scheduling and personalized itineraries cater to groups of up to six, promising a unique journey into the art of tea craftsmanship. But what secrets and traditions await those who embark on this captivating tour?

Key Points

• A 7-day private tour focused on the craftsmanship of tea, with experiences in Kyoto, Uji, and Aizu-wakamatsu, operated by JTB KYOTO OFFICE.
• The tour includes meals, transportation, experiences, an English interpreter guide, and all admission fees, with a total cost of $28,413.67 for up to 6 people.
• The tour features a mix of walking tours and site visits with uneven terrain and stairs, requiring a moderate fitness level, and is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour starts in Kyoto and concludes at Tokyo Station, with an overnight stay near the station to facilitate departure.
• The private nature of the tour allows for a personalized and immersive journey into tea craftsmanship, with the flexibility to customize the itinerary.

Tour Overview

This 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour in Kyoto, Uji and Aizu-wakamatsu is operated by the JTB KYOTO OFFICE.

The tour costs $28,413.67 per group of up to 6 people. Guests can cancel for free up to 6 days in advance, and the booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour includes meals, transportation, experiences, an English interpreter guide, and all admission fees.

The meeting point is in Kyoto, and the tour ends at Tokyo Station, with a hotel stay near the station on the final night.

Itinerary Inclusions

The 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour includes a variety of meals, covering breakfast on 4 days, lunch on 2 days, and dinner on 2 days.

Transportation specified in the itinerary is provided, along with all admission and entrance fees for the listed experiences. An English interpreter guide is included for the duration of the tour.

The tour operator, JTB KYOTO OFFICE, offers free cancellation up to 6 days in advance. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Accommodation is provided on the final night near Tokyo Station, with check-out the following morning.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour is ウエダ 本社, located at 363 Shiogamachō, Shimogyo Ward in Kyoto, Japan, on the 2nd floor.

Participants will meet the group and guide there at the start of the tour.

At the end of the 7-day journey, the tour concludes at Tokyo Station, located at 1 Chome-9 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo.

Travelers will have the convenience of staying overnight at a hotel near Tokyo Station, checking out the following morning.

This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals due to the moderate fitness level required.

Accommodation

Travelers will have the convenience of staying overnight at a hotel near Tokyo Station on the night of the 7th day, allowing them to check out on the morning of the 8th day.

This accommodation is included in the tour package, providing a comfortable and accessible location for the end of the journey.

The hotel’s proximity to Tokyo Station simplifies the departure process, ensuring a seamless transition for participants.

With the tour’s activities and transportation arrangements handled, this final night of the tour offers a chance to rest and reflect on the immersive tea craftsmanship experiences before returning home.

Start Time and Accessibility

At 12:00 am, the tour begins, allowing participants to make the most of the day’s activities.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers. A moderate fitness level is required, as the tour involves various experiences throughout the day.

While the tour departs early, it provides a comprehensive exploration of the tea craftsmanship in Kyoto, Uji, and Aizu-wakamatsu.

Participants should prepare accordingly to fully enjoy the unique cultural and culinary experiences offered during this private tour.

Physical Fitness Requirements

A moderate fitness level is required for this 7-day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour.

Guests will participate in various activities, including walking tours and site visits, which may involve uneven terrain and stairs.

While the pace is generally leisurely, some walking is necessary to fully experience the tour’s offerings.

Travelers with limited mobility or those who are pregnant may find certain aspects of the tour challenging.

It’s important for participants to be able to comfortably navigate the tour’s itinerary and handle the physical demands of the activities.

Proper footwear and a basic level of physical fitness are strongly recommended.

Tour Type

This tour is a private affair, with only your group participating. There are no other travelers to contend with, so you can enjoy the experience at your own pace.

The intimate setting allows for a more personalized and immersive journey into the craftsmanship of tea.

The advantages of a private tour include:

• Flexibility to customize the itinerary to your interests
• Undivided attention from the guide
• Ability to ask questions and engage in deeper discussions

With the private tour format, you can fully learn about the rich tea culture of Kyoto, Uji, and Aizu-wakamatsu.

Transportation and Services

The tour includes transportation specified in the itinerary, though the exact modes aren’t clearly indicated.

It’s likely that a combination of public transportation and private vehicles will be used to facilitate the various activities and visits. The tour is described as being "near public transportation," suggesting easy access to trains, subways, or buses.

However, the specific details of the transportation services provided aren’t explicitly stated. Participants should expect a mix of guided and independent travel throughout the tour, with an English interpreter available to assist with navigation and logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

This tour may not be suitable for children. The itinerary requires a moderate fitness level, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Plus, the high price per group suggests it’s better suited for adults.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The operator offers private tours, so you can work with them to adjust the itinerary, activities, and accommodations to suit your needs and interests.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate physical activity. There are no formal or fancy attire requirements.

Are Any Activities Optional or Can We Skip Certain Parts?

The tour doesn’t mention any optional activities or the ability to skip parts. It appears to be a structured itinerary where all experiences and transportation are included. Participants will likely need to complete the full tour as described.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Supplies?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or supplies. Travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. All necessary materials for the tea experiences will be provided during the tour.

The Sum Up

The 7-Day Craftsmanship of Tea Tour provides an immersive journey into Japan’s revered tea culture. Participants can look forward to exploring picturesque landscapes, engaging in hands-on tea experiences, and enjoying convenient accommodations near Tokyo. With a personalized itinerary and expert guidance, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the artistry and tradition of tea craftsmanship.