Slow Cycling Tour at Ujis Matcha Green Tea Fields and Heritage

Discover the enchanting world of Uji’s matcha green tea heritage through a leisurely cycling tour. Explore the picturesque tea fields, learn about the region’s rich culture, and experience a traditional tea ceremony. This unforgettable journey offers a unique way to connect with Japan’s matcha birthplace, leaving you intrigued to learn more.

Key Points

• Guided slow-paced cycling tour exploring Uji’s renowned matcha green tea fields and historic landmarks, led by an English-speaking local.
• Immersive experience learning about Uji’s rich tea heritage and traditions, including a matcha tea ceremony demonstration.
• Visits to the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre Chazuna and the optional UNESCO World Heritage site Byōdō-in temple.
• Bicycle rental, equipment, and refreshments provided for a personalized and comfortable tour experience.
• Limited to a maximum of 6 travelers to ensure a more intimate and engaging exploration of Uji’s matcha tea culture.

About the Slow Cycling Tour

The Slow Cycling Tour at Uji’s Matcha Green Tea Fields and Heritage allows participants to leisurely explore the picturesque tea plantations and historic landmarks in the serene town of Uji, Japan.

Guided by an English-speaking local, the tour provides bicycle rental, equipment, and refreshments. Cyclists can visit the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre Chazuna and the iconic Byodoin Phoenix Hall.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. While not recommended for those with mobility issues, the tour is suitable for most visitors seeking a relaxed way to discover Uji’s rich cultural heritage.

The Uji Region and Its Matcha Green Tea

Situated in the historical Kyoto prefecture, the Uji region is renowned for its exceptional matcha green tea. Uji is considered the birthplace of matcha and has a centuries-old tradition of tea cultivation.

Three key factors contribute to the region’s renowned tea:

1. Ideal climate: The cool, misty conditions and nutrient-rich soil create the perfect environment for growing high-quality tea leaves.
2. Meticulous cultivation: Uji’s tea farmers employ time-honored techniques, such as shading the plants to enhance sweetness and umami.
3. Precise processing: The leaves are carefully steamed, dried, and stone-ground into the vibrant green powder we know as matcha.

Highlights of the Tour

Although the tour offers a leisurely pace, it promises a captivating exploration of Uji’s renowned matcha tea heritage.

Cyclists will meander through the picturesque matcha tea fields, taking in the vibrant green hues and learning about the region’s centuries-old cultivation techniques.

The tour also includes a visit to the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre Chazuna, where guests can enjoy the art of traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Optionally, travelers can extend their journey by visiting the iconic Byōdō-in temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Phoenix Hall.

Throughout the tour, an English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary.

Exploring the Uji Tea and Heritage Sites

As cyclists embark on the tour, they’ll enjoy the rich heritage of Uji’s renowned matcha tea cultivation.

They’ll visit the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre Chazuna, where they can:

1. Learn about the history and traditions of Uji tea.
2. Observe the tea-making process.
3. Enjoy a matcha tea ceremony demonstration.

Next, they’ll explore the iconic Byodoin Phoenix Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples.

Throughout the tour, the guide will share insights into Uji’s centuries-old tea culture and its influence on the region’s architecture and lifestyle.

Experiencing the Slow Cycling Pace

Riders embark on a gentle, unhurried exploration of Uji’s renowned matcha tea fields, seeing the serene countryside.

Atop their BROMPTON bicycles, they glide along scenic routes, taking in the lush greenery and time-honored traditions. The leisurely pace allows them to savor the tranquility, stopping to admire the iconic Phoenix Hall and visit the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre.

An English-speaking guide provides insights, enriching the experience. Cyclists can relax, sipping refreshments and sampling local snacks, as they enjoy the captivating beauty and history of this famous tea-producing region.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a bicycle rental fee, an exclusive navigator fee, and necessary bicycle equipment such as helmets and transport bags.

Other inclusions are an English-speaking guide, insurance coverage, snacks and refreshments, as well as optional entrance fees to the Tea and Uji Town Exchange Centre Chazuna and the Byodoin Phoenix Hall.

The key features are:

1. Exclusive navigator to guide the cycling tour
2. Bicycle equipment and insurance for safety and comfort
3. Optional add-ons for visiting local attractions

This comprehensive package ensures a worry-free and immersive experience exploring the scenic Uji matcha green tea fields.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the Slow Cycling Tour at Ujis Matcha Green Tea Fields is the Tea Jar post, located outside the JR Uji Station in Uji, Japan. At the meeting point, you will find a navigator with a BROMPTON bicycle ready to lead the tour. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Meeting Point	Pickup Details
Tea Jar post, outside JR Uji Station, Japan	Navigator with BROMPTON bicycle will be present
〒611-0021 Kyoto, Umonji−１７−１６ 宇治駅	Tour ends at the meeting point

Health and Accessibility Considerations

Although the Slow Cycling Tour at Ujis Matcha Green Tea Fields isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.

The tour has the following health and accessibility considerations:

1. Not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
2. The tour requires participants to cycle, which may be strenuous for some.
3. The tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those who can walk or use other modes of transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Rest Stops Are Included During the Tour?

The tour overview does not specify the number of rest stops included during the tour. The details provided focus on the inclusions, meeting point, and health/accessibility information, but do not mention any details about rest stops along the route.

Can We Bring Our Own Bicycles Instead of Renting?

No, participants cannot bring their own bicycles. The tour includes bicycle rental as one of the inclusions, and the meeting point has a navigator with BROMPTON bicycles present for the participants to use during the tour.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour to Our Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, and you can discuss any special requests or modifications with them prior to the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about the possibility and cost of extending the tour duration to fit their preferences.

Can We Book Private Tours for Our Group?

Yes, private tours can be booked for groups. The tour operator offers a maximum of 6 participants per tour, so it’s possible to book the entire tour just for your group. The price varies based on the group size.

The Sum Up

The Slow Cycling Tour at Uji’s Matcha Green Tea Fields and Heritage provides an enchanting way to take in Japan’s matcha birthplace. Visitors can explore picturesque tea fields, learn about the region’s rich tea culture, and experience a traditional tea ceremony. This tour offers an unforgettable journey, seamlessly blending sightseeing, history, and the tranquility of slow cycling.