Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour – Mike's Travel Guide

The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers an immersive experience for tea enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the rich tea culture of Uji, Japan, with a guided journey through local tea shops and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Byodoin Temple. From learning the art of matcha preparation to savoring a delectable set lunch, this personalized tour promises an authentic cultural adventure. Whether you’re a matcha aficionado or simply curious about the Japanese tea ceremony, this tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the nuances of this revered beverage.

Key Points

Comprehensive exploration of Matcha tea culture in Uji, Japan, including preparation and tasting at local tea shops.
Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Byodoin Temple.
Set lunch featuring Matcha-infused delicacies like Wagashi sweets and ice cream.
Hotel pickup and drop-off provided for convenience.
Personalized experience with a maximum group size of 10 travelers.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Matcha tea culture in Uji, Japan—the birthplace of this revered green tea variety.

Travelers can discover the nuances of Matcha, from its preparation to tasting, at hidden local tea shops with the guidance of a knowledgeable translator.

The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byodoin Temple.

After the tea experience, guests will savor a set lunch featuring Matcha-infused delicacies like Wagashi sweets and ice cream.

This tour delivers an immersive cultural experience with a 95% recommendation rate.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Uji.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour includes several key components to provide an immersive cultural experience.

Travelers will enjoy a matcha tasting, a set lunch at a restaurant, and a guided tea experience in Uji, the home of matcha. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included for convenience.

However, the tour excludes gratuities and any additional food or drinks beyond what’s specified.

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and those under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Meeting for the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour takes place at the entrance of the Keihan Uji Station, not the JR Uji Station.

The tour ends at the Byodoin area shopping streets. The start time is 11:00 am.

Tour participants must make their own way to the meeting point, as hotel pickup isn’t included.

At the end of the tour, travelers are free to explore the Byodoin area on their own.

The tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers.

Tour Conditions and Accessibility

While the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children are welcome to join as long as they’re accompanied by an adult.

Passport copies are required for kids 10 and above. This family-friendly tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with infant seats available if needed.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers per tour. It’s important to note that the tour may be subject to changes due to unforeseen circumstances.

Plus, the tour may not be suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets, though vegetarian options are available.

Booking Information and Reviews

Priced from $221.00 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

With a 4.8 rating based on 21 reviews, the tour receives notable praise for its hospitality and culture.

However, it’s not recommended for vegans or those with gluten-free diets, though it does accommodate vegetarians.

Travelers should also note that changes to the tour may occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

Here's some more things to do in Uji

Exploring Matcha Varieties and Preparation

As part of the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour, travelers can expect to discover the nuanced varieties and intricate preparation of this revered Japanese green tea. The tour guides will lead visitors through a tasting of different Matcha grades, ranging from ceremonial to culinary. Participants will learn the precise steps of the traditional Matcha preparation ritual, from whisking the powder into a frothy drink to the correct temperature and technique. This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for the subtleties of Matcha and its central role in Japanese culture.

Matcha Grade	Use	Characteristics
Ceremonial	Drinking	Vibrant green color, delicate flavor, low bitterness
Premium	Drinking	Rich green hue, smooth, balanced taste
Café	Lattes, smoothies	Slightly bolder flavor, higher bitterness
Culinary	Baking, cooking	Less expensive, stronger taste
Cooking	Food preparation	Economic, robust flavor

Experiencing the Tea Ceremony

Participants on the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour can enjoy the revered Japanese tea ceremony tradition.

They’ll visit local tea shops and learn the meticulous steps involved in preparing a perfect cup of matcha. Under the guidance of an expert, they’ll whisk the vibrant green powder with hot water, creating a frothy, umami-rich beverage.

Tasting the refined flavors, they’ll appreciate the art and philosophy behind the tea ceremony.

Complementing the experience, guests savor a set lunch featuring matcha-infused delicacies like wagashi sweets and ice cream, offering a holistic exploration of Kyoto’s renowned tea culture.

Discovering Uji’s Hidden Tea Shops

Beyond the main streets of Uji, travelers on the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour explore a world of hidden local tea shops.

With a knowledgeable guide for translation, visitors discover the art of matcha preparation and sample various blends in these tucked-away establishments.

They learn about the history and tradition that permeate Uji’s tea culture, exploring the nuances that distinguish each shop’s offerings.

This intimate, behind-the-scenes experience provides a deeper appreciation for the processes and craftsmanship that go into the renowned matcha of this region, the spiritual home of Japan’s signature green tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take the Matcha Tea Home With Me?

Yes, you can take home the matcha tea samples from the tour. The tour includes a shopping time where you can purchase matcha and other local tea products to bring back with you.

Is English Spoken Fluently by the Tour Guide?

The tour guide speaks English fluently, providing translation services to help travelers navigate the hidden local tea shops in Uji, Japan and fully experience the Matcha tea and cultural highlights of the tour.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony, though participants should be mindful and avoid disrupting the experience. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate times and etiquette for taking photos during the tea ritual.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate level of walking. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level as they’ll visit hidden local tea shops and the Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO site. Infant seats are available for those who need them.

Can I Purchase Additional Matcha Products at the End?

Yes, you can purchase additional matcha products at the end of the tour. The tour includes shopping time, so you’ll have the opportunity to buy extra matcha tea, sweets, or other souvenirs from the local tea shops.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers an immersive experience for tea enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the rich tea culture of Uji, learn about matcha preparation, and visit a UNESCO World Heritage site. With personalized attention and a delectable set lunch, the tour provides an authentic cultural experience that’s a must for anyone interested in the art of Japanese tea.