Small Group Japanese Green Tea Tasting in Shizuoka

Shizuoka, Japan’s premier tea-producing region, offers a captivating small group adventure for green tea enthusiasts. This intimate tour provides an immersive experience, inviting participants to explore the art of Sencha cultivation, engage in hands-on tea leaf picking, and savor premium varieties during a traditional tea ceremony. With an expert guide leading the way, visitors can expect personalized attention and stunning landscapes as they explore the serene world of Japanese green tea culture. The question remains: what secrets will this enchanting tour unveil?

Key Points

1. Participants visit Moriuchi Tea Farm in Shizuoka to learn about the cultivation and preparation of premium Sencha green tea.
2. Tour includes a hands-on tea-picking experience and a traditional tea ceremony, providing a immersive insight into Japanese tea culture.
3. Guided by an English-speaking expert, the small group tour offers a personalized exploration of Shizuoka’s unique tea terroir and tasting of various green tea varieties.
4. Transportation, lunch, and hotel pick-up/drop-off are included, making the experience convenient and hassle-free for participants.
5. The tour has a 5.0 rating from past travelers, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the educational and experiential elements of the program.

Overview of the Experience

Participants on this small group Japanese Green Tea Tasting experience will discover the art of Sencha green tea cultivation and preparation in Shizuoka, Japan.

They’ll explore a tea farm, learn from an English-speaking guide, and sample a variety of green teas. The tour also includes transportation, lunch, and hotel pick-up/drop-off.

With a 5.0 rating from past travelers, this private experience offers an immersive look into Japan’s renowned tea culture.

The 4-hour tour starts at Shizuoka Station at 9 AM and returns to the same location, providing a convenient and comprehensive green tea adventure.

Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide who’ll lead participants through the experience.

They’ll travel via public transportation to the Moriuchi Tea Farm, where they’ll learn about and sample various green teas and senchas.

The entrance fee at the farm is covered, as are the round-trip taxi fares from the farm to the Shizuoka station.

Lunch is provided, and guests can enjoy coffee or tea at the plantation, though there’s an additional cost for that.

Snacks, like a tea break at the Nippondaira Hotel, also incur extra charges.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this tour is Shizuoka Station in Japan, located at 50 Kurokane-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture (〒420-0851).

Participants will meet their English-speaking guide here at 9:00 AM. The tour concludes by returning to the same meeting point.

This small group activity provides private transportation, ensuring a personalized experience. With a maximum group size, the tour offers an intimate exploration of Shizuoka’s renowned green tea culture.

Throughout the day, guests will visit a tea farm, sample various green tea varieties, and enjoy an included lunch.

Additional Information

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. This is a private tour, with only your group participating. The experience is operated by Trip Designer Inc. Prices start from $242.23 per person, with variation based on group size.

Additional Details
Wheelchair Accessible	No
Near Public Transportation	Yes
Private Tour	Yes
Tour Operator	Trip Designer Inc.
Price Range	From $242.23 per person

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Though the experience comes with a Lowest Price Guarantee, guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours before the start of the activity (in local time). This allows for flexibility in case plans change.

Plus, the tour operator offers a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, providing more booking convenience. The transparent pricing and lenient cancellation policy ensure a hassle-free booking process.

Guests can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The booking and cancellation policy for this Japanese green tea tasting experience prioritizes customer satisfaction and flexibility.

Exploring the Moriuchi Tea Farm

As guests arrive at the Moriuchi Tea Farm, they’ll be greeted by the tranquil surroundings and the welcoming staff.

The guide will lead them through the lush tea fields, explaining the cultivation process and the unique terroir that gives Shizuoka’s green tea its exceptional flavor.

Visitors can observe the tea leaves being handpicked and participate in a traditional tea ceremony, learning about the cultural significance of this ritual.

The tasting experience allows them to savor the delicate notes and aromas of several premium green tea varieties, providing a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry behind each cup.

Tasting the Japanese Green Tea Varieties

After exploring the tea fields and learning about the cultivation process, guests eagerly await the highlight of the experience – tasting the exquisite Japanese green tea varieties.

The guide leads the group to the tasting room, where they’re presented with a flight of different sencha teas. Guests sip and savor each unique blend, noting the subtle nuances in aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel.

The guide expertly explains the distinctions between the teas, highlighting the importance of factors like terroir, processing methods, and harvesting seasons.

Guests leave with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of artisanal Japanese green tea.

Enjoying the Lunch and Tea Break

Following the tea tasting, guests enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant.

The meal features regional specialties, allowing them to further immerse in Shizuoka’s culinary culture.

After lunch, the group heads to the Nippondaira Hotel for a tea break.

Here, they savor their choice of coffee or tea while admiring the stunning views of Mount Fuji in the distance.

This tranquil setting provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on the rich flavors and aromas they experienced during the tea tasting.

Fully satisfied, the group then returns to the Shizuoka Station, their Japanese green tea adventure complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the information provided, participants can’t bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The inclusions clearly state that snacks and coffee/tea at the plantation are additional costs, suggesting they’re not included in the tour package.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tea Tasting?

No, you don’t need to bring any special equipment for the tea tasting. The tour includes a guided tea tasting experience where the necessary equipment, like tea cups and tasting trays, will be provided.

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour includes a lunch, so it’s suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The guide can accommodate any special dietary needs as long as they’re communicated in advance.

Can I Purchase Additional Tea or Tea-Related Products During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional tea or tea-related products during the tour. The tour includes a green tea/sencha flight, but you’re free to buy more tea and other souvenirs at the Moriuchi Tea Farm.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Attire Required for the Experience?

There is no dress code or special attire required for this experience. Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended. The focus is on the tea tasting, not formal attire.

The Sum Up

This small group Japanese green tea tasting in Shizuoka offers a serene and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the Moriuchi Tea Farm, engage in tea cultivation, and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. The personalized attention and premium green tea varieties, complemented by a delicious lunch, make this a truly unique and memorable adventure for tea enthusiasts.